In the modern world, themes of depression and mortality echo through the lives of fictional characters, as explored in Jo Kyung-ran's newest short story collection, 'The People on the Other Side'. Each story focuses on a recurring set of three characters, including a university lecturer in his late forties and his elderly mother, who is prone to depression. This interconnected narrative reveals their shared struggles, as the protagonists navigate their precarious social statuses and the burdens of caring for each other amid the challenges they face.

The characters frequently express their fears and sorrow, grappling with despair over their uncertain futures, particularly as part-time instructors in academia have faced significant job insecurity after legal changes in 2019 that led to widespread layoffs. One character, Yang-ji, epitomizes the precariousness of their situation as she juggles her duties managing households of those who travel abroad, contrasting her hopes and needs with her reality. The narratives not only emphasize the individual experiences of these characters but also reflect broader societal issues affecting those living on the margins, trapped in cycles of urgency and isolation.

As the protagonists' stories intertwine, the collection emphasizes the power of storytelling as a means of confronting despair and existential fears. Juxtaposing their daily struggles with moments of profound emotional reflection, the work serves as a poignant commentary on the human condition and the societal pressures that exacerbate feelings of hopelessness. Ultimately, 'The People on the Other Side' illustrates how, despite the weight of depression and mortality, the act of storytelling can provide solace and a means to confront personal and collective anguish.