The controversy over the 'March for the Beloved'

The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs will keep the controversial song “March for the Beloved” sung by the choir rather than singing in unison at the May 18 Democratic Movement Commemoration event. The ministry explained that this is to respect “attendee’s free will.” The two main oppositions, the Minjoo Party of Korea and the People’s Party, immediately called for dismissal of the minister for ruining a mood of consent. Ruling Saenuri Party's floor leader also requested for reconsideration. But the biggest issue is why the ministry has taken over the issue.

The ministry’s grounds for limiting the song to be sung in unison are that it was a background music for the movie “A Symphony for the Beloved” featuring the democratic movement, and that there is no precedent the government has officially designated a song for the event. Some at the right wing claim that “the beloved” refers to former North Korean leader Kim Il Sung, and the May 18 Memorial Foundation is preparing a lawsuit against such claim.

Moon Jae-in, then leader of the New Politics Alliance, had requested for designation of the song as an official memorial song to President Park in March last year. The president had clearly disagreed by saying, “Such designation may lead to other disputes in the national event as some attendees agree and some do not. Moreover, there is no such precedent.” She has shown slight change in attitude, however, during meetings this year saying she will ask the ministry to look for the best solution. Her comments made people think there had been a deal within the government, especially given it was her first chance to show embracing leadership after the April 13 general elections. It is understandable that the opposition is now outrageous for the ministry's announcement.

Every year in May the two political parties repeatedly fight over an issue that has nothing to do with the livelihoods of the people. This situation is almost similar to the 21st version of the long political debate 350 years ago, which took place over whether the mourning period of the king’s mother should be one year or three years. The issues should be resolved as soon as possible for the sake of the people.

President Park had decided to close the Kaesong Industrial Complex amid sharp conflict between parties regarding the issue. This time, she seems to have passed on the nuisance to the Ministry. Former U.S. President Harry Truman put a note saying “The buck stops here” on his desk. If necessary, the Presidential Committee for National Cohesion should gather politicians, civil groups, and all opposition groups to search for an answer.