Cheong 'COVID-19' Response, Principle vs. Emotion... Why a Dual Strategy of Toughness and Softness?

Point-by-point Rebuttal of Controversy Over Cheongwadae's Tough Stance on Japan... President Moon Appeals for National Unity and Harmony Including Messages Related to Pharmacists

[Asia Economy reporters Ryu Jeong-min and Son Seon-hee] The Blue House is simultaneously employing a hard and soft strategy in response to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19). This is a strategic move aimed at securing national momentum through overcoming the immediate challenge of COVID-19.

In this context, the Blue House's detailed rebuttal of the 'Japan hardline response theory' on the 8th is noteworthy. It offers a glimpse into the blueprint for future political management.

It is argued that the South Korean government's decision to suspend visa-free entry for Japanese nationals following Japan's strengthened entry ban on Koreans was a natural measure. Blue House spokesperson Kang Min-seok explained, "In accordance with the three principles of COVID-19 response?transparency, openness, and democratic procedures?we took corresponding measures in a 'restrained manner.'"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Unlike Japan's emotional response to Korea driven by political motives, the Blue House states that their response was based on principles. The Blue House's swift move to quell controversy related to the Japan issue reflects an intention to control political framing that could burden national governance.

If the claim that "only Japan is being dealt with harshly" gains traction, it could reignite controversy over the 'ban on Chinese entry.' Additionally, the Blue House's principled stance is related to suspicions that there is a 'political calculation' behind the response to Japan.

There is suspicion that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, facing political crisis, resorted to 'attacking Korea' as a means to escape it. The Blue House's reaction labeling as 'fake news' the Yomiuri Shimbun's report that the South Korean government rejected North Korea's request for mask support is in the same vein.

An interesting point is that an appeal to emotions is detected in domestic responses. Earlier, President Moon Jae-in expressed on social networking services (SNS) on the 6th, "I deeply appreciate the cooperation of frontline pharmacists," adding, "Their willingness to step forward likely stems from a sense of mission to overcome the crisis together and protect the health of the people."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Similarly, President Moon's unannounced visit to the Armed Forces Nursing Academy training ground on the 2nd, and his and the First Lady's attendance at the Air Force Academy graduation and commissioning ceremony held without parental participation on the 4th due to COVID-19, reflect the same approach. This emotional strategy aims to soothe public opinion and secure momentum for overcoming COVID-19.

The Blue House senior secretaries and aides meeting chaired by President Moon on the 9th is expected to reaffirm the blueprint for COVID-19 response. While emphasizing the government's strong commitment to quarantine measures, it is also expected to urge public cooperation considering it is the first day of the 'mask 5-day rotation system' implementation.

Meanwhile, the Blue House has revised employee conduct guidelines regarding mask usage. Deputy spokesperson Yoon Jae-kwan said, "Starting today (the 9th), the senior secretaries and aides meeting chaired by the President will be held in the video conference room to increase distancing between participants," adding, "Temperature checks and hand sanitization upon entry through Yeonpungmun and other gates will continue as before."

Generally, the use of cloth masks is recommended except in special cases requiring medical masks. Furthermore, it was explained that Blue House employees are encouraged to wear masks when using public transportation, but mask-wearing is unnecessary when using private vehicles.

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