Kim creates characters with whom the reader empathizes despite their behavior, especially in Elizabeth and Mary. Even Matt, who is the least likable character, is admittedly deeply disturbed by his behavior and his punishments: the loss of his fingers, his impotence, and his failed marriage do evoke some sympathy on his behalf.

Kim argues that we cannot merely look at the actions of a character; we must also explore the motive behind the character’s actions. Pak lied to his wife and committed perjury, but he acted out of a desire to protect his family. He didn’t want Young to be burdened with the knowledge that Mary was responsible for such atrocities, including paralyzing her own father. He believes that his duty is to protect his family no matter what. He even wants to go so far as to take responsibility for Mary’s actions, to save Mary from suffering the consequences.  

Young is heartbroken once she realizes that her daughter started the fire, killing two people and injuring others. However, she is relieved to know that Mary did not intend to hurt anybody, and her understanding of this restores Mary and Young’s relationship. When Pak insists that they remain silent about who caused the fire, that Young’s belief that Mary should confess will mean that Mary will “destroy her life for nothing,” Young replies, “[d]oing the right thing is not nothing” (340).