"The Knot Used for Preparing the Dead for Burial"... Controversy Over Yoon's Inauguration Emblem

Emblem of the 20th Presidential Inauguration (left) and Sadongsim-gyeol traditional knot (Photo by Online Capture)

There have been repeated criticisms that the traditional knot selected as the official emblem for President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol's inauguration ceremony resembles the 'Sadongsim-gyeol,' a knot used for wrapping the deceased. The Presidential Transition Committee stated that it has "no special position" regarding this controversy.

On the 12th, posts titled "20th Presidential Inauguration Emblem Explanation - Sadongsim-gyeol Knot" have been spreading on online communities.

According to these posts, the traditional knot method called 'Dongsim-gyeol' is divided into 'Sadongsim-gyeol' used for wrapping the deceased and 'Saengdongsim-gyeol' used for occasions such as weddings of the living.

If the knot is surrounded by wings, it is Saengdongsim-gyeol; if not, it is Sadongsim-gyeol. The emblem released by the Transition Committee is said to resemble the shape of the 'Sadongsim-gyeol.' Sadongsim-gyeol is a knot used to wrap the belongings of the deceased before cremation.

The author of the post wrote, "I don't know whether they used it knowingly or deliberately, or who designed this." Food columnist Hwang Kyo-ik also pointed out the day before, "It seems like they intend to hold a funeral for the democratic republic of Korea on May 10."

Choi Ji-hyun, the chief deputy spokesperson of the Transition Committee, responded to the controversy during an afternoon briefing, saying, "We have no special position," but added, "The Transition Committee will provide more detailed guidance."

Earlier, Park Joo-sun, chairman of the Presidential Inauguration Preparation Committee, explained when announcing the emblem that it utilized the 'Dongsim-gyeol,' a symbol of promise. Chairman Park said, "It was planned considering the President-elect's usual emphasis on a Korea that takes a new leap forward and a country where the people are the owners."

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