Haruki Murakami: "Corona Must Become a Battle of Wisdom to Save Each Other"

Author Haruki Murakami.
Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Hee-eun Park] Japanese author Haruki Murakami (71) expressed his support for people struggling with the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) and shared his personal beliefs.

According to Kyodo News and NHK, Murakami hosted a special program titled "Murakami Radio Stay Home Special: Music for Welcoming a Bright Tomorrow" on the 22nd, which was broadcast on 38 radio channels nationwide in Japan, including Tokyo FM.

He conducted the program from his home study, playing music selected from his personal record collection for the listeners.

Murakami explained, "You are probably experiencing inconveniences due to various restrictions. I have chosen music that, in my own way, can give you a little strength and soothe your mind."

Kyodo News reported that Murakami selected songs such as "Ame ni Nuretemo (Even When Wet in the Rain)" for listeners struggling with COVID-19.

In particular, he mentioned, "I do not think it is right to compare the fight against COVID-19 to a war. It should not be a battle of power to kill each other, but a battle of wisdom to save each other."

He added, "If there is no love or consideration, the world after the end of COVID-19 will inevitably become a dry and boring place."

At the end of the program, he said, "To not be defeated by the coronavirus, you must passionately pursue something you desire," and added, "I hope peaceful daily life returns to the whole world as soon as possible."

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