Henry's wife, a speech therapist with perfectly pronounced English, who struggles with the loss of their son and the cultural differences within her marriage to Henry.

A charismatic city councilman in Queens and mentor to Henry, who is involved in politics with a focus on immigrant communities.

Henry's colleague at the intelligence firm, known for his cynical yet caring attitude, who provides Henry with advice and encourages him to seek a better future.

The biracial son of Henry and Lelia, whose death before the novel begins has a profound impact on his parents and their relationship.

Henry's father, a successful Korean grocer in New York City, who represents traditional Korean masculinity and has high expectations for Henry.

Henry's mother, who passed away when he was ten, remembered for her frail health and the nurturing role she played in Henry's childhood.