A discussion will be held regarding the addition of a Korean sign alongside the existing Chinese characters at Gwanghwamun in Gyeongbokgung.
The Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced on July 17 that they will host a public forum titled 'Everyone's Discussion' on July 26 in Seoul, inviting citizens to participate in the dialogue about the 'Gwanghwamun Korean Signage.'
'Everyone's Discussion' is a public forum organized by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety to listen to citizens' voices and actively incorporate them into policy amid a complex and evolving policy environment.
This forum aims to engage the public in a thorough discussion about the proposal to install a Korean sign alongside the existing Chinese characters, considering the historical and cultural significance of Gwanghwamun and the symbolism of the Korean language.
Approximately 200 citizens, along with officials from relevant agencies and experts, will gather to engage in multifaceted discussions. The program will include expert presentations, panel discussions, and small group discussions where citizens can participate directly.
The forum will seek to gather unfiltered public opinions on key issues, such as whether Gwanghwamun should be viewed as a national symbolic space that embodies modern values or preserved as a cultural heritage site.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on July 26 at Yonsei University's Baekyangnuri. Any South Korean citizen can apply to attend. Interested participants can register easily through the websites of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, or via the public online communication platform 'Communication Innovation 24' from July 7 to 14.
Minister Yoon Ho-jung stated, 'Everyone's Discussion is a public forum introduced by the citizen-led government to ensure that policies closely related to citizens' lives reflect their vivid experiences and voices. I hope many citizens will take an interest and participate in this first forum to determine the future of the Gwanghwamun signage, a national symbolic space.'
Minister Choi Hwi-young remarked, 'Gwanghwamun is both a cultural heritage and a national symbolic space, while the Korean language is a valuable asset that showcases South Korea's cultural pride. This year marks the 100th anniversary of 'Gagya Day,' the origin of Hangul Day, and I hope this forum will be a meaningful opportunity to hear broader public opinions and build consensus.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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