[The Editors' Verdict] Where Were You in December 2024?

"Where in the world is there a country where citizens have to urge politicians to vote?"

On the 8th, at the presidential impeachment rally in Seomyeon, Busan, an 18-year-old high school girl took the stage and introduced herself as the ‘Daughter of Busan.’ With a trembling voice, she delivered a speech for about 10 minutes, mentioning the democracy lessons she learned at school and criticizing the lawmakers who abstained from the impeachment vote.

The video was uploaded on YouTube under the title ‘K-Daughter, the Daughter of Busan’s Moving Speech That Made the Older Generation Reflect.’ Comments exceeding 10,000 were filled with praise and emotion, such as ‘It brings tears to my eyes,’ ‘Yu Gwan-sun is everywhere in the neighborhood,’ and ‘The future of the Republic of Korea is bright.’

What led the high school girl to take the stage?

"I came here because I want to stand here proudly and say that I was here at this moment, learning about it, when my toddler cousin and my younger brother, who will be at home, ask me about this time that will be written in history books in the distant future."

She expressed that she does not want to remain a person to be ashamed of. Even in the unprecedented situation of the current president’s alleged involvement in a rebellion, her words awaken the adults who hesitate and waver. If someone asks you in the future, ‘Where were you and what were you doing in December 2024?’ how will you answer? This question applies not only to politicians and public officials living on this land but also to all citizens.

Will you say you were indifferent because politics had nothing to do with you? Will you say you were calculating what was in your best interest? Or will you say you tried to live a life without shame for our children?

On the night of the 3rd, when martial law was declared, there were citizens who rushed toward Yeouido. They came from different hometowns and generations and stood bare-handed against armored vehicles. Despite the harsh martial law proclamation threatening ‘execution’ if they did not comply, they threw themselves forward without hesitation.

On the night of the first impeachment vote on the 7th, there were citizens on the crosswalk of the 12-lane road in Yeouido Park, Seoul. It was a space where those attending the impeachment rally and those leaving to go home crossed paths.

"Thank you for enduring the cold. From now on, we will keep watch."

At a man’s words, those crossing the crosswalk exchanged applause of encouragement. Those who had been guarding in front of the National Assembly since morning returned home with warm hearts, and those newly joining near the National Assembly also walked on with a pleased spirit.

Every night in Yeouido, other citizens gather. Holding idol light sticks, they sing impeachment songs in chorus. The pledge to live without shame resonates as an echo throughout the square. What do the lawmakers feel when they see this? Do they know that the badge they wear on their chest is not a symbol of power but a pledge to represent the will of the people?

So I ask again: On the 14th, when the second presidential impeachment vote takes place, where and what do you plan to do? In this grave situation, the words and actions of lawmakers will be recorded forever in text and video in history. It will be clearly shown who upheld their duties on the side of the citizens and who tried to deceive with greed and delusions. Do you think you can get away with a suitable deception?

Isn’t it time to realize that a sandcastle of power, no matter how small, cannot stand against the massive wave of public will (min-ui)?