Understanding the Sink in the Upstairs Hallway of 'Parasite': Cultural Insights and Architectural Choices

In Parasite, the acclaimed 2019 film by Bong Joon-ho, the usage of space and design choices reflect the characters' social status and struggles. One intriguing element is the sink placed in the upstairs hallway. This design feature has sparked curiosity and debate among viewers. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this architectural choice and its cultural implications.

Architectural Design Choices in 'Parasite'

The sink in the upstairs hallway in 'Parasite' is not just a random placement but a deliberate design choice. In the movie, this sink serves multiple purposes, highlighting the disjointed social dynamics within the Park family's household. It is often seen when the cleaner (Yangjin) proceeds to clean the bathrooms, indicating that she does not have a proper private space for personal hygiene. This mirrors the overall theme of the film, where the lower-class characters navigate the upper-class household with skill and cunning, yet remain extractive of their resources.

Why a Sink in the Hallway?

Initially, it is often speculated that the lack of a washbasin in a small bathroom leads to the placement of the sink in the hallway. While this may be a valid observation, it is essential to understand this decision in the broader context of Korean cultural and architectural practices.

Cultural Context in Korean Architecture

Korean homes, especially traditional ones, often emphasize efficient use of space. In many Korean households, the bathrooms tend to be small and lack individual washbasins. Instead, families share a communal sink in a laundry room or hallway. This is not just a practical consideration but also a cultural one, reflecting a simple and collective way of life. In 'Parasite', this design choice reinforces the class divide, as the sink in the hallway is assigned to the lower-class characters, overshadowing their personal privacy.

Functional and Psychological Implications

The functional implications of this design choice are also significant. By having the sink in the hallway, Bong Joon-ho emphasizes the shared nature of domestic space and the challenges faced by the Wonks in navigating a household designed for wealthier inhabitants. The psychological impact is profound, as it suggests that the cleaner has to adapt to her surroundings, using communal spaces for what might be private activities. This symbolism effectively captures the tension and adaptability of the characters.

Cultural and Artistic Relevance

The sink in the hallway in 'Parasite' is a prime example of artistic and cultural relevance. Filmmakers often use specific design elements to convey socio-economic status, and in this case, the sink helps to critique social hierarchies and the inequities between the upper and lower classes. The choice to place the sink in the hallway rather than in a more private space symbolizes the characters' marginalization and the exploitation faced by the poorer members of the household.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the sink in the upstairs hallway in 'Parasite' is a multifaceted element of the film. It reflects both a practical design choice, influenced by cultural and architectural norms in Korea, and a nuanced commentary on social class and domestic dynamics. Bong Joon-ho's deliberate placement of this sink serves to highlight the explicitly contrasting worlds of the Park and the Wonk families, further enriching the film's critical and artistic depth.