" We all want to be affiliated with success. It’s the impulse of people who have been excluded, and Koreans have been excluded from lots of parties. "
- Min Jin Lee

In the quote under discussion, Min Jin Lee addresses a fundamental human desire to connect with success. She suggests that individuals often wish to be part of successful groups or movements as it offers validation and inclusion. The notion of being excluded from these circles is highlighted, implying that this exclusion can create feelings of longing and inadequacy.

On a deeper level, the quote touches on broader themes of identity, belonging, and social hierarchy. Lee’s statement implies that certain communities may feel a greater sense of marginalization or exclusion than others, leading them to yearn for recognition even more intensely. For Koreans specifically, this desire can be rooted in historical contexts where they have faced discrimination or were not included in influential spheres dominated by other groups. This longing is not just about personal ambition but also about cultural and communal aspirations for respect and inclusion.

Min Jin Lee is a renowned author known for her insightful explorations of Korean-American identity and the immigrant experience. Her work delves into the complexities of blending cultures and navigating between two worlds, themes that resonate deeply with many readers who can relate to feelings of belongingness or exclusion in their personal lives.