Good for the South Korean Protesters

Tens of thousands of demonstrators in South Korea protested their government’s decision to allow the sale of American beef. The issue has two aspects related to the people’s concern over their health and to South Korea-U.S. alliance. In all cases, the demonstrations reflect the people’s awareness and will power to maintain their integrity against U.S. pressure regarding South Korean security.

Seoul banned the import of US beef five years ago over fears of mad cow disease. In April this year, the Korean government agreed to lift all restrictions on imports of young cattle as they are less susceptible to the disease. However, protesters say the plan does not do enough to protect them. Washington has been putting pressure on South Korea, one of the largest markets for US beef, to reopen this market. But, the South Korean public feels offended by the government’s tendency to yield to US pressure. The Koreans also believe that the US security alliance, which was justified in the past, has no grounds today. Faced by massive protests, the government has tendered its resignation to defuse public anger, although the resignation has not been accepted.

There is much to be learned from this public-official tug-of-war. Here in Egypt, a large number of consumers rely on cheap imported Brazilian meat despite warnings of poor quality owing to improper storage and slaughtering methods. People don’t heed the warnings, however, because the alternative is to buy expensive local meat, an option which they cannot afford.The South Korean ministers’ reaction to protests against State policy shows respect for its citizens by their willingness to step aside and not cling to their ministerial chairs. The demonstrations have, in fact, reflected a popular keenness to express their views about local as well as foreign policy.