Human Acts by Han Kang vividly portrays the experiences of survivors of the Gwangju Uprising through intense personal narratives and poignant imagery. The novel emphasizes the psychological trauma that survivors endure, showcasing their struggles to process unimaginable violence and loss. Many characters grapple with a sense of helplessness and fear, often reflecting on the moment they witnessed brutality or lost loved ones, highlighting the persistent pain and confusion surrounding their survival. The text also illustrates the complexity of morality during periods of turmoil; survivors confront their choices, whether to flee or to stay and fight, revealing the contradictory nature of courage and instinct for self-preservation. Furthermore, their sorrow is palpable, not only as they mourn individual losses but also as they feel the weight of collective grief for thousands of lives affected. In essence, the novel sheds light on the haunting legacy of trauma and the emotional scars survivors carry long after the physical violence has ceased.