The Kite Fighters

Lee Kee-sup is the first-born son of the Lee family, older than Young-sup by several years. Korean society dictates that as the first-born son, Kee-sup has the duty of carrying on the Lee name and representing the family. He takes this role seriously, but eventually reveals to his brother that he often resents the burden of this responsibility. Just like Young-sup, Kee-sup has also been born into a position he does not want to be in and wishes his circumstances were different. Kee-sup is “clever with his hands” (9), and a capable, artistic craftsman who enjoys making toys and kites for his siblings. Just like his brother, his skills earn him the admiration of the King, which is an extremely high honor. His perfectionism can impede his ability to finish a project, like the King’s kite, but with his brother’s encouragement, Kee-sup learns to believe in his abilities.

However, as the first-born son, Kee-sup is training to be a royal scholar, even though this is not his dream. Being part of the king’s court is one of the only ways someone lower-class like Kee-sup has a chance of raising their social standing, so from an early age, Kee-sup learns that he must ignore his personal dreams for the sake of his family. As Kee-sup comes of age and enters adulthood, he struggles to navigate the new power he holds over his brother. While he abides by tradition, he does not change his behavior toward his brother, indicating that he does not genuinely believe himself to be above Young-sup. His maturity, though, is evident in his thoughtful considerations of all things, and his advocacy of Young-sup’s skills demonstrate how loving and protective he is of him. Kee-sup’s love and support are crucial in helping Young-sup win the kite fights and show that one can respect family and tradition while making room for innovation and new dynamics.

The King of Korea is about the Lee brothers’ age, having assumed the throne at the age of 12 when his father died. He is currently too young to rule but understands his role as the figurehead of the country while his mother rules until he comes of age. In an Author’s Note, Park explains that the King’s character was based on King Seongjong, who reigned from 1469-1494, and was notable for appointing court members with differing viewpoints and valuing intellectual discourse. This more liberal approach to ruling can be seen in the fictional character, as the King makes slight but meaningful changes to the festival program, suggesting to his subjects that society has space for positive change.

Another way he suggests this to the Lee brothers personally is by befriending them. As a young royal, his closest relationships are with his teams of advisors. In a radical departure from the typical social hierarchy, the King wants the brothers to teach him how to speak like a commoner, and to play with him as if he were their equal. Despite being at the top of the Korean class structure, the King is nevertheless still a child who wants to enjoy his childhood and make friends.