Eight years ago today Korea signed an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for emergency economic assistance when it found itself in a financial crisis. The "IMF prescription," as it was called, had a bright and dark side. On the one hand that course of action removed a lot of the fluff in the economy and increased efficiency, but the disparity between companies, industries, and economic classes has grown deeper and wider.
In 2005, indicators such as the growth rate have pointed to a gentle recovery, but the economy as felt by the average person continues to be unpleasant. The Korean Composite Stock Price Index is at record levels and exports are doing two-digit growth, but the job market remains frozen. Social disparity leads to inequality in income. According to Bank of Korea (BOK) figures, the growth rate for actual per capita purchasing power in the third quarter was less than 1 percent. The rate of income increase for middle and lower economic classes was unable to keep up with prices, and half that part of the population is living in the red. A lot of self-employed persons, farmers, and irregular workers are at the point where if they’re pushed any farther they will join the ranks of the poor.
This year again, and without fail, Salvation Army donation kettles have appeared on the streets. A "thermometer of love" has been set up which rises one degree centigrade for every 1 percent of the collection goal that is achieved. It is pleasing to learn that despite the hard times the thermometer has gone over 100 degrees for the past six years. From donations from cute little hands to thick envelopes, the kettles are being visited by anonymous angles who are a source of strength and warmth for our society.
It was only recently that the story of an elementary school student living with his grandparents in a greenhouse before being killed by his own dog saddened the whole country. As his social worker said, "if only there is a little more interest" a little more heart can be a big help to many in our midst who are still in need. The way to overcoming the economic disparity and restoring a sense of community will be found in recovering that old warmth in all areas of society. If you are well enough off to be wearing long underwear this winter, let us find hope in helping neighbors in dire circumstances.
The Hankyoreh, 3 December 2005.
[Translations by Seoul Selection]
[Editorial] Drop Warmth and Hope in Salvation Army Kettles |
