In a parallel storyline, Sunja’s grandson Solomon (Jin Ha) tries to climb his way back to the top in late 1980’s Tokyo, while the now elderly Sunja (Youn Yuh-jung) is energised by a new friendship.
“With Solomon’s storyline in the present day, the stakes feel more dire for him,” Hugh said.
For Kim, expressing the growing maturity of young Sunja, now a mother-of-two was a challenge.
“I have never been a mother before, so it took quite a long time for me to figure out how to be like a mother,” said Kim, 28, who drew inspiration from the women in her own family.
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Lee, one of South Korea’s biggest stars, said Hansu, a character “who is always looking forward, never back” also felt different from the first season.
“It felt like taking on a new character,” said the 37-year-old actor.
“‘Pachinko’ came to me at a time when I needed new energy and provided me with new perspectives and ideas. It’s very meaningful work for me,” he added.
The first episode of ‘Pachinko’ Season Two is out on Apple TV+ on Friday, with new episodes released weekly.