THE SECOND CHANCE CONVENIENCE STORE

Jennifer Kim tenderly performs this portrait of contemporary Japanese society, which reflects on Japan's work culture. Kim portrays Dok-go, a homeless man who finds community after helping convenience store owner Mrs. Yeom recover her lost handbag. Her performance is sobering and affecting as her slow pace and grave tone convey Dok-go's strong moral code and work ethic, emotional strengths and burdens. Kim also entertainingly brings out the entitlement and arrogance of Mrs. Yeom's son, who hires a detective to investigate Dok-go's past. With empathy and nuance, Kim draws listeners into this story of human connection and the fragile line between stability and homelessness. M.F. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2025]