A classic revolutionary novel of the 1930s and the first complete work written by a woman before the Korean War to be published in English. From Wonso Pond transforms the love triangle between three protagonists into a revealing portrait of love and labor set against the backdrop of Japan's colonization of Korea. In a plot rich with Dickensian overtones, this novel paints a vivid picture of life in what is now North Korea through the eyes of Sonbi; her childhood neighbor, Ch'otchae; and a restless law student, Sinch'ol, as they journey separately from a small, impoverished village ruled by the lecherous landlord to the port city of Inch'on. But life is hardly easier there, as Sonbi wears herself out boiling silk threads twelve hours a day while Ch'otchae and Sinch'ol become overworked and underpaid dockworkers. All three become involved with underground activists, fighting oppression and colonial rule.