When My Name Was Keoko

Tae-yul is excelling in training. He is physically fit and mentally strong. However, he worries about what war will be like once he must actually kill US soldiers—who, ironically, are fighting to free Korea. He receives the package from home, but soldiers searched all of the contents and stole the food. Still, he enjoys the notes from his family, and nearly cries after Abuji’s simple message of thanks. Back on duty, Tae-yul’s unit must serve meals to the commanding officers—a rotating duty for all trainees. During dinner, he overhears the officers talking about a secret mission that involves Korean recruits. Tae-yul smiles, knowing that he is doing exactly what Sun-hee has done for so long when cleaning the table for him, Uncle, and Abuji. The next day, the commander asks the Korean unit for volunteers to go on a mission of “ultimate sacrifice” (164). Tae-yul confidently offers his loyalty, and impresses everyone.

The family receives a second letter from Tae-yul. He writes concisely, vaguely mentioning that the Emperor has selected him for an important mission that will utilize his previous experience in the “Japanese Youth Air Corps.” Sun-hee thinks about it, and after reading between the lines, guesses that Tae-yul is training to become a kamikaze pilot.