American Hagwon: A Conversation with Min Jin Lee

Join internationally acclaimed author Min Jin Lee for a special evening celebrating the release of her highly anticipated new novel, American Hagwon. From the bestselling author of Pachinko comes an epic, deeply moving saga that follows a Korean family across Seoul, Sydney, and California’s Orange County from 1992 to 2007. Through the lives of the Koh family and those around them, Lee explores the pursuit of opportunity, the pressures of academic achievement, the impact of economic upheaval, and the enduring bonds between parents and children. At the heart of the novel is the world of the hagwon—Korea’s private education system and a powerful symbol of ambition, sacrifice, and social mobility. As fortunes rise and fall against the backdrop of the Asian financial crisis and the Korean diaspora experience, American Hagwon asks timeless questions about identity, success, family, and what ultimately makes a good life. In this special live conversation, Min Jin Lee will discuss the inspiration behind her sweeping new novel, her creative process, and the themes that have made her one of the most important literary voices of our time. A book signing will follow the program. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear from the celebrated author of Pachinko as she introduces her most ambitious work yet. Tickets: $15 + fees (Event Ticket Only); $45 + fees (Event Ticket + Copy of American Hagwon, Pick-Up at Kew & Willow Books in Kew Gardens); $51 + fees (Event Ticket + Copy of American Hagwon, U.S. Shipping Included). Book pick-up and shipping will begin on September 29, 2026, the official publication date of American Hagwon. Limited signed editions by Min Jin Lee available—don’t wait, order now!