Story of a Big Player from Gangnam

My Thoughts on Story of a Big Player from Gangnam

"Story of a Big Player from Gangnam" promised a rags-to-riches tale set in the modern world, and while it delivers on that premise, my overall experience was… complicated. It's a completed original novel with an ongoing translation, and I went in hoping for an engaging story of ambition and success. What I found was a bit more of a mixed bag.

First Impressions

The initial chapters hooked me with the allure of a protagonist climbing the ladder in the cutthroat world of business. The "poor to rich" tag is definitely accurate, and the drama inherent in such a transformation was immediately apparent. I was ready to root for someone overcoming adversity, but that's where things started to get a little shaky.

What Works Well

The novel certainly commits to its premise. It paints a picture of a world where business acumen and luck intertwine, and the author isn't afraid to show the less glamorous side of chasing wealth. I appreciate the attempt to portray a "realistic" character, flaws and all, navigating the complexities of modern life. The pacing is decent, and the author keeps the story moving, ensuring there's always something happening.

Areas of Concern

However, the biggest issue for me, and seemingly for many readers, is the main character himself. The reviews I’ve read describe him as unlikeable, and I have to agree. He's frequently dishonest, seemingly willing to step on anyone to get ahead, and often blames others for his own shortcomings. While flawed characters can be compelling, it's difficult to find anything redeeming about him. His rise to power feels more like a series of lucky breaks and immoral decisions than genuine skill or hard work.

Furthermore, the plot often feels disjointed. Key characters and events sometimes appear and disappear without proper context or explanation, creating a sense of confusion and leaving me wondering if I missed something. The character development for secondary characters can feel shallow and inconsistent, making it hard to invest in their stories.

Final Verdict

Ultimately, "Story of a Big Player from Gangnam" is a novel with potential that falls short in execution. While the premise is intriguing and the pacing is adequate, the unlikeable protagonist and inconsistent plot make it a difficult read. If you're looking for a feel-good story about overcoming adversity, this isn't it. If you're willing to tolerate a deeply flawed character and a somewhat haphazard plot, you might find some entertainment value here. For me, though, it's a 2.5/5.