Bong Joon-ho's cinematic masterpiece, "Parasite," isn't just a thrilling social commentary; it's a deeply layered exploration of human desire, particularly the desires of the Kim family, and specifically, the eldest son, Ki-taek's, son, Hyun-su (also known as Ki-woo). Understanding Hyun-su's desires requires looking beyond simple material wants and delving into the complexities of his family's desperate situation and his own individual aspirations. While not explicitly stated, his desires are subtly woven into his actions and reactions throughout the film.
What are Hyun-su's Primary Goals?
Hyun-su's primary desire is undeniably social mobility. He craves a better life, a life beyond the cramped, semi-basement dwelling he shares with his family. This isn't just about material comfort, though that's certainly a part of it. It's about escaping the precariousness of their poverty and achieving a sense of security and respectability. His initial pursuit of the tutoring job at the Park household isn't just about the money; it's a strategic move to leverage the Park family's wealth and connections to elevate his family's standing.
Does Hyun-su Want to Destroy the Park Family?
While Hyun-su actively participates in the elaborate schemes to infiltrate the Park household, it's inaccurate to say his desire is solely to destroy the Parks. His actions are driven by a desperate need to improve his family's life, a need that clouds his judgment and leads him down a morally ambiguous path. The escalating chaos and violence aren't necessarily a conscious goal but rather the unforeseen consequences of his family's desperate actions. He’s caught in a web of deceit, survival, and ultimately, the brutal realities of class inequality.
What is Hyun-su's Relationship with the Park Family?
Hyun-su’s relationship with the Park family is complex and manipulative. He initially presents himself as a qualified tutor, expertly crafting a facade of competence and trustworthiness to gain access to their home and their world. As the plot unfolds, this relationship becomes increasingly strained, marked by deception and a growing sense of resentment, but ultimately, it's still rooted in his desire for a better life for himself and his family. This isn't necessarily a desire for direct conflict, but rather a means to an end – the achievement of social mobility.
How Does Hyun-su's Desire Compare to His Family's?
Hyun-su's desires are intrinsically linked to his family's collective aspirations. He's not acting in isolation; his actions are driven by a shared sense of desperation and a collective desire for upward mobility. However, his individual ambitions, while intertwined with his family's, are also shaped by his own personality and experiences. He's ambitious, cunning, and resourceful, demonstrating a willingness to take risks that his siblings might not.
What are the Underlying Psychological Factors?
Hyun-su's desires are fueled by a deep-seated sense of injustice and frustration with his circumstances. He sees the stark contrast between his family's poverty and the affluence of the Parks, a disparity that fuels his ambition and drives his actions. This psychological element adds another layer of complexity to his motivations, transforming his pursuit of social mobility into something more profound and emotionally charged. His actions are not simply strategic maneuvers, but also a manifestation of a yearning for a fairer and more equitable world.
In conclusion, Hyun-su's desire isn't a simple, singular goal. It's a complex tapestry woven from desperation, ambition, social commentary, and the harsh realities of class inequality. It's a desire for a better life, for social mobility, and for escaping the confines of his impoverished reality. The path he chooses to achieve this desire, however, is fraught with ethical ambiguities and ultimately leads to tragic consequences.
