Korea's dynamic culture, characterized by its "quick-quick" mentality, has achieved what many consider a miracle—the economic growth known as the Miracle on the Han River. While it may seem miraculous from abroad, it is the result of the hard work of the Korean people, alongside visionary leadership.
Following the June 3 local elections, the stock market has experienced increased volatility, and the exchange rate has reached concerning levels. There is a pressing need to pool wisdom to stabilize both the stock market and the exchange rate. Policymakers must carefully examine the public sentiment revealed in the local elections and realign policies to ensure the comfort of citizens and the future of the nation.
Concerns over the government's real estate policies contributed to the election of Mayor Oh Se-hoon. The failures of real estate policies under the Roh Moo-hyun and Moon Jae-in administrations played a role in the change of government. It is puzzling that similar issues are emerging again, yet the current administration remains steadfast in its approach. The public sentiment regarding the special investigation into the cancellation of charges also appeared to be reflected in the election results.
Crucial decisions may be made without a foundation in common sense. A notable example is the shortage of ballots during the June 3 local elections.
Before the elections, the National Election Commission (NEC) reduced the minimum number of ballots printed for the main vote from 60% to 50% of the number of registered voters on December 10 of the previous year. It raises a fundamental question: why did the decision-makers not consider how to respond if there were insufficient ballots?
There is a need for solutions to the NEC's incompetence and irresponsibility. Is it reasonable for a member of the NEC, who holds a significant position in the Democratic Party, to be in charge of an organization that should be neutral?
The potential negative impact on businesses and the national economy if strikes become commonplace due to the passage of the Yellow Envelope Law is also a matter of common sense. Following the controversy over Samsung Electronics' bonuses, it is unreasonable for funds that should be invested in the future to be diverted due to excessive bonuses and political pressure.
If the prosecution is dismantled and the police take over its responsibilities, will they be better equipped to investigate power-related misconduct or cases entangled with international interests? Is it acceptable for there to be no control system when the police make mistakes? Handing over the role of protecting public safety to the police without confidence in their ability to perform this role, under the pretext of prosecutorial reform, raises questions of common sense.
Imposing heavy taxes on real estate inevitably increases property prices, as these taxes become part of the cost structure. Is it reasonable to impose heavy taxes on essential goods like housing?
We must reflect on whether we are disregarding common sense in making important policy decisions. A society that respects those who raise reasonable questions is essential.
At times, are we not willfully ignoring the undeniable fact that we all will eventually depart from this world? Could it be that we are foolishly searching for paradise while living in what could be heaven?
During election seasons, our society seems divided politically, with progressives and conservatives, ruling and opposition parties fiercely battling each other. Citizens vote based on common-sense judgments about who can develop better policies and uphold laws and principles.
Former President Yoon Suk-yeol faced public scrutiny for his declaration of martial law due to insufficient legal grounds, while President Lee Jae-myung is pursuing a special investigation into the cancellation of charges. This undermines the fundamental principle that no one can be the judge in their own case.
We must humbly accept the public sentiment expressed through elections. The inability to exercise voting rights due to ballot shortages is a failure that deserves criticism. However, it is difficult to claim that this alone constitutes election fraud. The opposition leader should raise the core issues and call for institutional improvements rather than resorting to conspiracy theories about election fraud and demanding a re-election, which is far from common sense.
In the age of AI, politicians who truly understand the spirit of the times in line with common sense will win the hearts of the people. The current spirit of the times may revolve around fairness, coexistence, and harmony. When those in power share and make concessions, we can take a step closer to coexistence and harmony. How about the ruling party, as the majority, relinquishing control of the Legislative Committee to the opposition to restore a system that prevents unilateral dominance?
The future of a government that ignores public sentiment and an opposition party that clings to conspiracy theories without innovation is bleak. We hope that all will act according to common sense. When the public continually demands the normalization of irrationality, society will move forward.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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