[窓] Memento Mori

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Jonghwa] It has been a week since the election ended. With a nationwide campaign for high-intensity social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 underway, the atmosphere was such that one might wonder if the election was really taking place.

Fortunately, the voter turnout recorded an all-time high of 66.2%, compared to 54.2% in 2012 and 58.0% in 2016, indicating that this election was one that voters across the country had been eagerly anticipating.

While some have interpreted the general election results, which ended with overwhelming public support for the ruling party, as a victory brought about by COVID-19, it also appears to be a reflection of the public’s renewed trust in the government and ruling party’s administration.

However, the blatant division of the South Korean map into West Blue versus East Hot Pink remains regrettable. It seems that many politicians have managed to maintain their positions by hiding behind the shield of regionalism and avoiding the judgment of the people.

As one of the voters, I earnestly hope that the politicians who were chosen will contemplate how to properly fulfill their important duties with a renewed heart and determination, and that those who were not chosen will not abandon their calling as politicians but willingly dedicate themselves to enhancing the happiness of the people.

Yet, some politicians have already begun to make statements that cast doubt on their sincerity in the post-election political landscape, and they are voicing opinions as if their campaign promises were merely for election purposes.

The famous Latin phrase "Memento mori" comes to mind. It means "Remember death," "You will die someday," or "Keep in mind the finiteness of life."

This phrase is also related to an ancient Roman custom. A victorious general returning from war would parade in a chariot amid the cheers of the people. Behind the general’s chariot followed soldiers carrying spoils and prisoners of war. A slave always rode with the general in the chariot, shouting "Memento mori."

This was to remind the victorious general not to fall into arrogance even in moments of glory. Though the general was a star receiving the crowd’s praise, the voice reminded him that he was mortal and should remain humble.

Due to COVID-19, people inside and outside the country are experiencing the fear of disease and death, and the day after the election, the 16th, marked the 6th anniversary of the Sewol ferry disaster. Voices demanding a clear "truth investigation" into that day, which remains unresolved, are still loud. These are deaths that must be remembered, literally. Now that the election is over, politicians should reflect on the meaning of Memento mori.

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