Was the Barbie movie inspired by a Korean novel?

This novel was suggested in my book club, and it immediately caught my attention because it included themes of psychology, feminism, and Korean culture. Sadly though, I was disappointed. Perhaps even more than disappointed, I was annoyed by it.

📖 ‘Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982’ by Cho Nam-Joo

The story tried to educate the reader on intersectional feminism but unfortunately lacked the depth required to explore such a complex topic. Much like the Barbie movie, this book was reductive, and pointed at mere observations rather than an informed understanding of socialised human behavior.

Also, in its ambitious attempt to be written in an original narrative style, the story came off as poorly written and one-dimensional. Though it may be an international bestseller, it is clear why the book didn’t win any literary awards.

I am left wondering if the Barbie movie took its inspiration from this Korean book that was published back in 2016.

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐