When Sunja and Isak first move to Japan, Sunja is struck by the contrast between the rich Japanese homes and the poor Korean ghetto that Yoseb and Kyunghee live in. However, while the outside looks shabby, Kyunghee has been able to transform the interior of the home so that it is a welcoming and comfortable space for the two couples, thus recalling Yangjin and Hoonie’s ability to live with the boarders and still create a space for family. To maintain their domestic happiness, Yoseb warns Isak that he must be careful about what he says politically. Despite this caution, they are unable to protect their home from the pressures of the outside political world. When Isak is arrested, suddenly everything is at risk. Sunja can no longer rely on the cocoon they have created. She must go out into the world and earn a living any way she can in order to protect her family. Home must be redefined as they move to the countryside to escape the bombing. But even when they are living in the barn, they are able to set up a home where they can be together.