[Beijing Diary] The Economic Value of 'Uhyo'

A few days ago, I had dinner with a private Chinese think tank, and I briefly discussed 'friendship' with an official seated next to me. We exchanged concerns about the significant deterioration in the political and diplomatic relations between Korea and China, as well as the worsening sentiments of the citizens of both countries toward each other. We also shared our sorrow for the neighboring country that recently experienced an aircraft accident following the earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture's Noto Peninsula.

The official expressed great concern about some people who take pleasure in the misfortunes of countries they dislike. In China, a regional broadcaster anchor recently had their work suspended after posting on their social media that the Japanese earthquake was a kind of 'retaliation' for the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water. He frowned deeply, saying that comments implying 'serves them right' are truly problematic. Reflecting quietly on how similar sentiments had somewhat spread in the comment sections in our country, he nodded silently. I hoped inwardly that he had never had to translate the kinds of comments posted on reports related to China.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

We then exchanged views on how to foster friendly sentiments between the two countries in the future, but the conversation on that topic could not last long. Unlike politics and diplomacy, where procedures and outcomes are relatively clear, sentiments are ambiguous and difficult for governments or specific organizations to direct or induce. Sharing memories of the past when relations could be called friendly, we reached the modest conclusion that there seems to be no immediate way to improve things. I brought up the popular Tanghulu and Malatang in Korea, as well as the widely beloved panda Fu Bao. He also mentioned that he had visited Seoul just a few days ago and admired Korean temple cuisine, praising its recipes and flavors.

Friendship is an ambiguous concept that cannot be explained with tangible or precise numbers. The only thing that can be said is that today, it is hard to say that 'it' exists between the two countries. Companies that have expanded their businesses in China and are achieving considerable success hesitate to publicize this fact in Korea. They fear being targeted by the arrows of disfavor stemming from the unfavorable sentiments toward China. This is especially true for consumer goods companies that are highly sensitive to public opinion.

At one time, Korean tourism, food service, and retail sectors that targeted Chinese customers have also suffered as the dry friendly sentiments have made livelihoods difficult. Among my acquaintances, quite a few have lost their jobs after several years and are now drifting through unrelated occupations. A friend who was in charge of China at a major travel agency later challenged himself and became a public official. Just over ten years ago, the establishment of Chinese commerce studies at universities and the booming Chinese language academies were social phenomena that now feel like distant memories.

Those who have a deep understanding of the other country and those who have good connections and memories hide their feelings of friendship. As a result, experts gradually disappear, and all previous investments are rendered futile. Meanwhile, I feel that some opportunities and possibilities are being lost. It is impossible to estimate the economic value of that loss.