Date of Birth: November 11, 1968
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Biography
Min Jin Lee is a distinguished Korean-American writer known for her poignant and meticulously researched novels that explore themes of identity, immigration, and the intricacies of the human experience. Born in Seoul, South Korea, she immigrated to the United States with her family when she was seven years old. Lee grew up in Queens, New York, where she developed a deep appreciation for literature and the diverse cultural tapestry of her community. Lee attended Yale University, where she majored in history, before earning her J.D. from Georgetown Law School. Though she initially pursued a career in law, her passion for writing eventually took precedence. She began writing full-time and published her debut novel, “Free Food for Millionaires,” in 2007. The book received critical acclaim for its rich character development and insight into the Korean-American experience. Her second novel, “Pachinko,” published in 2017, was a finalist for the National Book Award and became an international bestseller. “Pachinko” spans four generations of a Korean family living in Japan and is celebrated for its epic scope and emotional depth. The novel has been adapted into a highly anticipated television series. Lee’s works have been translated into more than 30 languages, and she is a recipient of numerous awards, including fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University. Lee continues to be a powerful voice in contemporary literature, shedding light on the immigrant experience and the complexities of cultural identity.
5 Interesting Facts about Min Jin Lee
1. Min Jin Lee’s novel “Pachinko” took nearly 30 years to write, as she conducted extensive research and interviews to accurately depict the Korean-Japanese experience.
2. She has been a columnist for The New York Times Magazine, where she writes about literature and culture.
3. Lee was awarded the 2018 Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature for “Pachinko.”
4. She has served as a trustee of PEN America, an organization that works to defend and celebrate free expression in the United States and worldwide.
5. Lee’s writing often explores themes of diaspora and the resilience of individuals facing systemic discrimination and adversity.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Min Jin Lee
1. “History has failed us, but no matter.”
2. “Living every day in the presence of those who refuse to acknowledge your humanity takes great courage.”
3. “In Seoul, you do what you are supposed to do, and it is expected that you follow the rules.”
4. “I am a woman. I am a Korean woman. I am a Korean American woman. I am a Korean American woman who writes novels.”
5. “There was more to being something than just blood.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Min Jin Lee’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, primarily from her bestselling novels and related media adaptations.
Children
Min Jin Lee is married to Christopher Duffy, a public defender. The couple has one son, Sam Duffy.
Relevant Links
1. [Min Jin Lee’s Official Website](https://www.minjinlee.com
2. [Min Jin Lee’s Biography on Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/46532.Min_Jin_Lee
