Author Photo: Benjo Arwas

As one of the first Korean American actors to blaze a unique path through cultural and business barriers into the mainstream, John Cho’s esteemed career has spanned over two decades with compelling performances across film and television. Cho is also a former 7th-grade English teacher who grew up as a Korean immigrant kid in Texas and East L.A. (among many other places). This spring, he became an instant New York Times bestselling author when he published Troublemaker, an incredible middle grade novel highlighting the unique Korean American perspective as 12-year-old Jordan navigates the evening of the 1992 LA Riots.

In this conversation with The Korea Society, Cho discusses his debut novel and career.

“The novel weaves together large-scale issues of social injustice and interracial barriers with the intimate pain— and joy—of personal relationships. Equal parts suspenseful and emotionally insightful.” — Kirkus Reviews

“A gripping work of historical fiction. . . Exploring a significant historical event, the authors create an accessible yet emotionally complex read.” – Publishers Weekly

The Korea Society
350 Madison Avenue, 24th Floor
New York, NY 10017