Seok Kyung-deok Criticizes Domestic 'Animal Crossing' Craze: "I Wish They Had at Least Maintained Their Pride"

"Photo of People Lining Up in Front of Electronics Market... Japanese Right-Wing and Media Will Mock"

Seong Kyung-deok, Professor at Sungshin Women's University / Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Lim Juhyung] Professor Seokyungdeok from Sungshin Women's University, who is engaged in promoting Korea, criticized the popularity of Japanese games in Korea, saying, "I hope at least a minimum level of pride is maintained."

On the 8th, Professor Seokyungdeok posted on his Facebook, "Recently, the most reports I have received are about the 'Nintendo Switch Animal Crossing Edition,'" and stated, "Despite concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), at the end of last month when the Nintendo game console was released, citizens lined up in the passageway to Yongsan Electronics Market in Seoul to buy the product."

He added, "Of course, the (anti-Japanese) boycott movement cannot be absolutely forced. I also respect individual choices," but "I hope we think about it just one more time."

He further pointed out, "Last year, photos of people lining up in front of the Uniqlo store were revealed in Japan, and Japanese netizens gave a lot of criticism and ridicule," and said, "At this time when social distancing is more important than anything due to the COVID-19 situation, how much must the Japanese right-wing and media be laughing at such photos."

Meanwhile, the 'Animal Crossing' mentioned by Professor Seokyungdeok is a game title based on the game console 'Nintendo Switch' released by the Japanese game company Nintendo. The game was released on the 20th of last month, and it is known that all units sold out immediately after release, currently causing a shortage.

Some online communities have also posted photos capturing consumers lined up in front of Yongsan Electronics Market to purchase 'Animal Crossing.'