[Deputy Director's Column] Social Solidarity Overcoming COVID-19

"The wandering peddler who sold potatoes is back again, not dead yet~."

Asparagus promoted by Choi Moon-soon, Governor of Gangwon Province, sold out again in just 55 seconds after the sale began this time. A 1kg box was sold for 7,000 won, less than half the market price, so buyers lined up, but more than anything, it seems clear that the interest and response that had focused on the previous potato and squid sales continued, leading to another complete sell-out. Consumers who missed out said, "This time, too, I failed the Gangwon Province 'goshi' (meaning it was as difficult to purchase as passing a state exam)," and looked forward to the next sale date.

Governor Choi has previously sold small-sized dorumuk (sailfin sandfish) and dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) through SNS to help farmers and fishermen. As the COVID-19 pandemic deepened the worries of farming households, he once again rolled up his sleeves to personally promote the sale of agricultural and marine products, moving consumers nationwide.

This has also stimulated other local governments, spreading to sales of eco-friendly agricultural and marine product packages for school meals, drive-thru seafood sales, flower sharing events, and more. Consumers who received fresh products at their doorsteps at prices cheaper than the market were satisfied with the price and convenience, and even when sprouted potatoes were delivered, they showed generosity by saying, "It's to help struggling farmers, so just cut out the sprouts and eat."

An online opening ceremony video of an elementary school in Busan moved adults even more than the students. The elderly principal wore a golden wig, applied makeup neatly, and wore a sky-blue dress while going around the playground and classrooms looking for children to the tune of the song from "Frozen." Netizens unanimously agreed that the teachers, already busy preparing for online classes, followed behind awkwardly spraying white snow spray, showing genuine sincerity.

Without authority or moral lectures, there are teachers who show their love and affection for students with their whole bodies, which led parents to comment that even though online class videos get interrupted and managing assignments is cumbersome, they must endure it.

Although the COVID-19 situation does not seem to end easily, the hearts of social members caring for and comforting each other inevitably connect. Participating in the government's quarantine measures, appreciating the dedication of medical staff, and making efforts to consider each other and solve difficulties together will be the driving force that will firmly protect our community life in the future.

/Social Affairs Deputy Chief ikjo@

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