The Camellias

Kim Yu-jeong’s short story “The Camellias” is set in a rural village in 1930s Korea and comically depicts the tension and budding affection between two young characters. The protagonist is the son of a poor tenant farmer, while the girl, Jeomsun, is the daughter of a land steward (or a wealthy family). The tenant farmer’s son is introverted and curt, whereas Jeomsun is bold and outspoken—traits that spark continual minor quarrels between them.

The story begins with the protagonist building a fence, where Jeomsun pesters him with nagging remarks or tries to show kindness by offering him roasted potatoes. The boy, however, finds her attention bothersome and dismisses her attempts. Even when she extends a potato in goodwill, he bluntly retorts, “I don’t eat potatoes. You eat it yourself,” refusing to even turn his head. Hurt by his rejection, Jeomsun turns red with anger and runs off in tears.

Failing to grasp why she is upset, the protagonist remains indifferent to her emotional state. Yet readers can sense the underlying affection in Jeomsun’s words and actions. The narrative humorously depicts their misunderstandings and bickering, capturing the subtle, awkward feelings of a boy who doesn’t realize his own emotions and a forthright girl who yearns for his attention.

Ultimately, “The Camellias” is praised for lightheartedly illustrating daily life in a rural setting while highlighting the innocent yet genuine affection shared by two young people, reflective of both the social atmosphere of 1930s countryside Korea and the universal experiences of youthful love.