Apple TV+‘s coveted series, Pachinko, created by Soo Hugh (The Whispers) is back for another season. Fans have been thrilled about the return of this series, and rightfully so. It isn’t often that a streaming platform renews a series for another season, so when Pachinko Season 2 was announced, everyone was looking forward to it, and now that it’s finally here, we’re ready to dive into it.
The bar has been set incredibly high for Pachinko Season 2 after a successful first season which tells the story of a Korean immigrant family across four generations. Apple TV+ hasn’t given this series a two-episode premiere like most, which has been a little disappointing, but nevertheless, we’re elated with a strong start and are here to tell you more about it, so make sure you stick around!
What’s Next for Sunja and Her Children?
Pachinko Season 2 Episode 1, or Chapter 9 of the series gives viewers a 3-minute recap for anyone who hasn’t re-watched the series lately and needs a refresher. The episode starts in 1945, during World War II, and picks up from where the first season left off.
We witness Sunja with her children living in Okasa, living as carefully and peacefully as they possibly can. Sunja sells kimchi but struggles as cabbage is hard to find which has affected her sales.
Several airplanes loom over the sky as they drop notes in Japan, asking the country to halt as it hints at the arrival of Americans in the world. This episode serves as the scene-setting episode and reintroduces most of the main characters who will tag along for the rest of the season.
One must be aware that Pachinko lets viewers explore several storylines at once, and while sometimes it can get a little complex, it is worth a watch, and the first season of Pachinko Season 2 confirms just that.
Mozasu and Noa, Sunja’s two children are the highlight of the episode for us, even though they are only a small part of the storyline, however, they perfectly reflect Sunja’s personality as a whole, with a maturity that only circumstances like these can bring in children.
After the opening credits roll, we are transported to 1989, where Solomon, Sunja’s grandson, is suited up, and trying to get investors for his own business.
There’s no doubt that Pachinko Season 2 is off to a strong start with Chapter 9 of the series, as there are plenty of heartbreaking moments scattered around, and while this series is character-driven and dialogue-heavy at the same time, you won’t find yourself falling behind at any point. All the subplots perfectly intertwine, much like the first season.
After Sunja finds herself in prison, she later finds out that Hansu has been keeping an eye on her kids, and her all this time, including sending the person to buy kimchi in the first half of the episode.
Hansu desperately wants to be a part of his life, but she closes the door on any future they might have together. Despite that, he’s adamant on keeping her safe. The episode ends on this note, and we’re already looking forward to what’s next!
Conclusion
Pachinko Season 2 is back and better than ever, and while we had some doubts about whether or not this season would live up to the expectations set by the first, so far, things are looking great. Let us know in the comments what you think about this season!