[The Editors' Verdict] In an Age of Hatred, Lessons from Misaeng

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] "See you tomorrow." This is a famous line representing the drama Misaeng.

What does it mean to have a relationship where you can see each other tomorrow? Why do these seemingly ordinary five words resonate deeply with many viewers? Could it be that the aesthetics of connection overcoming an era of disconnection are hidden within?

Praised as a life drama, Misaeng captures the joys and sorrows of office workers. The core storyline revolves around the sales team 3 of ‘One International,’ including Manager Oh Sang-sik, Deputy Kim Dong-sik, and employee Jang Geu-rae. Misaeng delves into the harsh realities behind fierce competition. It tells the story of Oh Sang-sik’s struggle as he insists on playing by the rules against the temptation of shortcuts.

Another message running through Misaeng is the empathy between generations. Oh Sang-sik, a 43-year-old perpetual manager, and his 26-27-year-old peers Jang Geu-rae, Ahn Young-i, Jang Baek-gi, and Han Seok-yul work together to find solutions. Despite differences in generation, gender, status, and circumstances, they put their heads together not only on work but also on life’s challenges.

Drama 'Misaeng' Poster

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Considering today’s reality where certain generations express hatred toward others, this is a scene worth reflecting on. The reason Misaeng, a 2014 drama, is being spotlighted now is because it contains lessons related to our society’s problems.

We live in an era of hatred. Not only are generations and genders divided for political reasons, but hatred toward people with disabilities is also being stirred up. Is the normalization of exclusion a story unrelated to me? The thought that the sharp edge of hatred will somehow spare oneself is an illusion.

In that sense, the soon-to-be-launched Yoon Seok-yeol administration faces a heavy responsibility in difficult times. It carries the task of removing the shadow of hatred cast over society. It must navigate the post-COVID era and respond wisely to the global economic crisis. These are not easy tasks even if national consensus is gathered.

How about applying the lessons of Misaeng to politics to find solutions?

The smooth sailing of the new government depends on the cooperation of the National Assembly in a situation where the ruling party is in the minority. The problem is that when power is concentrated, it is easy to fall into the temptation of a ‘knife dance.’ Even the impression that investigative agencies are being used to control the opposition party can lead to a steep confrontation in the political arena. Wasting the precious early days of the term on political strife will inevitably become a heavy burden on the Yoon Seok-yeol administration’s national agenda roadmap.

The Democratic Party, as the opposition, must not repeat the ‘bad formula’ of Korean politics that only hopes for the ruling party’s failure if it wants to revive the flame of a governing party. This National Assembly confirmation hearing is a test to gauge whether opposition is being made just for the sake of opposition. It must not forget that provoking hatred toward the ruling party can be a self-defeating move that only prolongs the ‘opposition party’s era.’

Ryu Jeong-min, Head of Culture and Sports Department

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The lesson that recognizing the other as a partner is the beginning of problem-solving is the message Misaeng conveys. When employee Jang Baek-gi hits a wall at work, he reluctantly seeks advice from his direct supervisor, Deputy Kang.

Jang Baek-gi, a graduate of prestigious S University with a super resume, was considering quitting because Deputy Kang did not recognize his abilities.

What turned him around was Deputy Kang’s farewell greeting, "See you tomorrow," despite their usually awkward relationship.

Jang Baek-gi, trapped in the snare of stubbornness, realized through that incident that Deputy Kang, whom he had regarded as an object of hatred, was actually a partner who could fill his shortcomings...

Politics, after all, is a process of winning the hearts of others. Cooperation between ruling and opposition parties is nothing special. Even if there are fierce debates over political issues, how about ending with a word like this?

"See you tomorrow."

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