President Moon on Asan Side Dish Store Controversy: "It Was a Simple Expression, but Regrettable"

"Geojigatda" Expresses Regret Over Some Attacks on Merchant's Remarks... "It Was a Down-to-Earth and Simple Expression"

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] President Moon Jae-in expressed regret over some criticisms related to the expression "geojigatda" ("like a beggar") used by the owner of a side dish shop in Chungnam Asan Jungang Market. Earlier, President Moon visited Asan Jungang Market on the 9th to encourage market merchants. During this visit, some merchants complained about difficulties in their business and used the expression "geojigatda," which led to controversy as some pro-government supporters launched attacks.

On the 19th, Blue House spokesperson Kang Min-seok told reporters, "The President asked the spokesperson to somewhat defend that person (the Asan side dish shop owner), so I came," adding, "He mentioned that there were reports saying business was worsening because of the attacks triggered by the expression 'geojigatda.' The President said it was regrettable that the person was being attacked."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Spokesperson Kang said, "Regarding the problematic expression 'geojigatda,' the President understood it as the side dish shop owner expressing that business was bad in a way typical of ordinary people, describing it as a humble and straightforward expression," and added, "The President recalls that the atmosphere at the time was not bad."

Spokesperson Kang continued, "He emphasized that there was absolutely no malice. The expression 'geojigatda' was not used with ill intent," and said, "People often say 'ai, geojigatda' ('oh, like a beggar') in casual conversation to that extent," adding, "The President expressed regret that the person was criticized and that the shop's business worsened because of it."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.