Controversy Over Chun Doo-hwan Merchandise Sold by Major Chinese Shopping Mall
Recently, a Chinese Man Mocked Chun Doo-hwan in Gwangju
Chun Doo-hwan Photos Also Used for Ridicule at AFC Champions League Stadium
Seo Kyungduk Expresses Outrage: "Making Light of Another Country's Painful History"
A well-known Chinese shopping mall has sparked controversy by selling products featuring the face of former President Chun Doo-hwan. Seo Kyungduk, a professor at Sungshin Women's University, has lodged an official protest demanding that sales be halted.
On May 20, Professor Seo stated on his social media account, "China's leading online shopping platform 'Taobao,' operated by Alibaba, is selling a variety of products featuring Chun Doo-hwan's face," adding, "These include short-sleeve T-shirts, long-sleeve hooded sweatshirts, and bags, among others."
Professor Seo pointed out, "They used a 'South Face' logo, which is a parody of an American outdoor brand, and incorporated Chun Doo-hwan's face," adding, "They are using his image from the period when he became president after violently suppressing the 5·18 Democratization Movement."
He continued, "I sent a protest email to Taobao, stating that selling such products inflicts further pain on the families of countless victims. I urged them to at least distinguish between items that should and should not be sold."
He further criticized, "It is unacceptable to make light of another country's painful history," and added, "It is an even bigger problem if they are turning this into a source of profit." He emphasized, "Chinese people should keep in mind that such actions by some individuals will only lead to China's isolation on the global stage."
A Chinese person mocking Gwangju by imitating Jeon Du-hwan (left). On the right, a Chinese spectator holds photos of Jeon Du-hwan and Kim Jong-un during a soccer match between Gwangju FC and Shandong Taishan. Online community
This is not the first time there has been controversy over the disparagement of Gwangju in China. Back in February, a Chinese man caused a stir by posting a video of himself imitating Chun Doo-hwan while parading through downtown Gwangju. During the same period, some home fans of the Chinese professional soccer club Shandong Taishan drew criticism by displaying photos of Chun Doo-hwan during a match against Gwangju FC.
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