Hae-Hyun PARK

Professor of Korean Language & Literature at Seogang University
While The Sympathizer seems to function as an affidavit for the Vietnamese, it is also deeply moving as a confession for people around the world in the 20th century. What was most notable is the complex way in which it transcends previous dichotomous viewpoints and assumptions.

Eun-Kyung MIN

Professor of English Language & Literature at Seoul National University
While exploring the unique position and identity of a Vietnamese American by having the main character be a “double agent,” the author calls for introspection about how the Vietnam War should be remembered and reproduced.

Gye-Sook KANG

Professor of Korean Language & Literature at Myongji University
From the moment I began reading Viet Thanh Nguyen’s book The Sympathizer, I had the feeling it would win this year’s award. The author pulls off an original writing style through the main character’s inner monologue while also achieving narrative coherence and a well-made plot, drawing readers further and further into the story.

Ki-Hyung SONG

Translator, judge for the inaugural Bucheon Diaspora Literary Award
Viet Thanh Nguyen’s novel The Sympathizer is a remarkable study of a “man of two minds”. Buoyed by the main character’s unflinching honesty and savage irony, this novel offers unparalleled insights into the experience of diaspora in the modern world.