Yoon "I Feel Energized When Visiting Seomun Market" Repeatedly Expresses Gratitude
Checking Chuseok Prices at 'Conservative Stronghold' Seomun Market, Rallying Support Among Conservative Voters
[Asia Economy Reporter Ki-min Lee] On the 26th, President Yoon Seok-yeol visited Daegu Seomun Market and stated, "I believe that by frequently visiting traditional markets where public sentiment flows, I can govern the country without becoming disconnected from the people's will."
He also expressed gratitude to the market merchants and Daegu citizens, saying, "You supported and cheered for me enthusiastically during the election."
During a meeting with the Merchants' Association held at Seomun Market in Jung-gu, Daegu that afternoon, President Yoon said, "Traditional markets are always places where public sentiment flows."
President Yoon greeted, "I visited Seomun Market several times during the election and now, after just four months, I am really glad to see such familiar faces. It’s a great pleasure to meet you like this."
He added that he came to check on how the suggestions he received four months ago are progressing and how local governments and central ministries should assist. He said, "Above all, I want to receive some energy from you. Thanks to your passionate support, I have come this far, so even if I have many shortcomings, please help me a lot."
Although President Yoon’s visit to Seomun Market was leaked through First Lady Kim Geon-hee’s fan club as confidential information, his visit is interpreted as an effort to rally the support of the conservative base that had drifted away ahead of the Chuseok holiday.
Daegu Seomun Market is a representative traditional market in Daegu, often called the "Holy Land of Conservatism." Former President Park Geun-hye visited Seomun Market whenever she faced political crises to garner support and break through political deadlocks.
Before the meeting with the Merchants' Association, President Yoon gave an impromptu speech at the market lasting about 2 minutes and 30 seconds. He greeted, "To our Seomun Market merchants and Daegu citizens, it’s been a long time, so I am even happier and more energized to see you."
He continued, "I visited you several times during the election and also as the president-elect, but now that I meet you again after taking office, I am reminded of how you supported and cheered for me so enthusiastically during the election," expressing his gratitude. The merchants and citizens responded with cheers and applause.
He added, "Traditional markets are places where public sentiment gathers and flows. Therefore, politicians and leaders should never forget places where public sentiment flows. That’s why I frequently visit, and whenever I come to Daegu, I visit Seomun Market. Today, when I last visited, I heard various difficulties and institutional suggestions from the merchants and the Merchants' Association executives, and I promise to carefully review them again today."
He said, "Even when I am having a hard time, thinking of Seomun Market and the citizens of Daegu gives me strength. I will leave here energized today," and added, "Although I may not have another chance to greet you in person before then, I hope you have a good Chuseok holiday coming soon."
He promised, "I will also keep a close eye on Chuseok prices," and repeatedly expressed his thanks, saying, "Thank you, thank you."
While touring the market, President Yoon purchased a pillow and quilt made of Punggi ramie, and at a nearby shoe store, he bought slippers and sneakers. When merchants gathered around, he took photos with them and signed a sketchbook. He also stopped by a hat store and bought a fedora and a white hat for First Lady Kim.
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