What happens when a ghost tries to cross the DMZ dividing North and South Korea? Author Joseph Han’s debut novel “Nuclear Family” explores themes of separated families, generational trauma and the Korean immigrant experience in Hawaii. Upon the release of the Korean translation of his book to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War in 1953, we interviewed Joseph about his diaspora experience, journey to writing fiction and more.

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Intro: ♪ Onion (Prod. by Lukrembo)Outro: ♪ Wine (Prod. by Lukrembo)

0:00 Introduction1:27 “Nuclear Family” in Joseph’s words2:24 Joseph’s Third Culture Kid roots in Seoul and Hawaii3:55 Joseph’s journey to writing and self-discovery7:31 What inspired “Nuclear Family”?10:41 Joseph’s reaction to the Korean translation12:31 Uncanny coincidences 16:31 Key takeaways from the book19:40 Autobiographical elements in “Nuclear Family”22:41 Books to read about the Korean War and separated families24:47 Joseph’s upcoming publications26:50 What’s an interesting Korean word/phrase you’d like to share?29:55 A Korean book pick from our listener Courtney