A privileged young man born to parents who came from Japan to North Korea, known for his shaggy hair and wealth despite the regime's famine. He is captivated by Mi-ran and gradually becomes skeptical of the regime.

A garment factory worker and devoted mother with plump facial features, known for her deep belief in socialism. Her life takes a dramatic turn after personal losses during the famine.

The first daughter of Mrs. Song, characterized by her pretty and compact appearance. She rebels against her society's constraints, marries an abusive husband, and faces imprisonment, yet manages to escape and help her family.

A driven and diminutive physician, distinguished as the youngest student and doctor in her program. She faces challenges due to her father's heritage and is compelled to leave North Korea during difficult times.

An orphaned child with a large head, who becomes a survivor of the famine era. His story follows his struggle with theft for survival, imprisonment, and eventual efforts to adjust to life outside North Korea.

The tall husband of Mrs. Song and a journalist, who becomes disillusioned with North Korea's regime. He shares his critical views with his daughter Oak-hee but hides them from his wife.