Chan is an athletic Korean American teenager adapting to his family's sudden move to the small, predominantly white town of Iron River. Formerly a soccer player, he transitions to kicking for the local football team to find an outlet for his frustration and a sense of belonging. He frequently clashes with his strict father but fiercely loves his twin sister and his cultural roots.

Chan and Young's strict, formal father prioritizes discipline and adherence to traditional Korean values. A highly educated immigrant who previously ran a successful grocery store, he assumes ownership of a convenience store in Minnesota to cover his irresponsible brother's debts. He relies heavily on his Korean-English Bible for language practice and spiritual grounding.

Chan's twin sister, born a few minutes after him. She is a straight-A student, exceptionally gifted in mathematics, and a talented flute player. Unlike Chan, she rarely questions their parents' strict rules at first, acting as the family's obedient golden child. Her desire to experience life as an average American teenager eventually causes friction at home.

The junior quarterback of the Iron River football team and the high school principal's son. He is friendly, athletic, and notably lacks the arrogance common among the school's star athletes. Mikko becomes Chan's first genuine friend in Minnesota, going out of his way to recruit him for the team and make him feel welcome.

The gentle, adaptable matriarch of the Kim family. She provides a quiet, comforting presence to balance her husband's strict authority. O-Ma embraces the challenge of their new environment by sharing a kitchen with their landlady and enthusiastically learning Minnesotan cooking to blend with her Korean recipes.

A hulking, blonde star lineman on the Iron River football team whom Chan initially dubs "The Monster." He leverages his athletic value to evade consequences for his aggressive and deeply prejudiced behavior. He consistently targets Chan with racist slurs and physical intimidation on and off the field.

The head coach of the Iron River varsity football team and the high school's calculus teacher. He is a firm but supportive figure who demands hard work from his players while demonstrating integrity and fairness. He serves as a positive male role model who recognizes Chan's potential.

Abogee's irresponsible and flaky brother. After purchasing a Midwestern convenience store franchise with Abogee's money, he abandons the business for a scheme in Korea. His financial irresponsibility forces the Kims to relocate to Minnesota to manage the store themselves.

An elderly, kind-hearted widow who rents the top floor of her house to the Kims. She eagerly shares her kitchen space with O-Ma, fostering a cultural exchange through food. She is also an avid, vocal supporter of the local high school football team.

A blue-eyed, black-haired high school student who plays tennis. Having survived severe bullying from the football team in the past, she is empathetic toward outcasts and quickly develops a mutual attraction with Chan.

An Indigenous football player who temporarily fills in as kicker. Despite facing prejudice himself, he initially aligns with Rom Kreeger, echoing Rom's slurs and participating in his cruel treatment of Chan in exchange for daily rides home and social protection.

The assistant coach of the Iron River football team. He frequently relies on racist stereotypes, sexist remarks, and verbal abuse to supposedly motivate his players, creating a toxic environment during practices.

The principal of Iron River High School and Mikko's father. While outwardly welcoming, he holds somewhat regressive views regarding gender roles, insisting that Young take home economics rather than advanced calculus.

The senior starting quarterback for the Iron River football team. He is an openly devout student who takes his faith seriously, often initiating team prayers before major games.