President Lee Jae-myung resolved lunch with a roll of gimbap, a new attitude towards power.

The meaning of a roll of kimbap

The sight of a line of kimbap and a cup of water placed on the table in the meeting room of the Yongsan Presidential Office in Seoul has captured the attention of many. This is interpreted not just as a simple meal, but as a signal of new leadership. The same meal was provided in front of the ministers, and the informal attire and refined atmosphere convey simplicity and practicality. This change presents a different image from previous presidents, and the public seeks to read the government's direction through both form and content. The line of kimbap serves as a symbolic element carrying a political message, transcending the concept of a mere meal.

Comparison with the Past

This scene is naturally compared to the lunch atmosphere of the past Blue House. Traditionally, there were tables decorated with flowers and busy aides, which showcased 'the dignity of the state' and 'the weight of power.' However, the Lee Jae-myung administration is breaking away from this, launching without a transition committee and demonstrating a practical, essence-centered governance philosophy. A single roll of gimbap at the first meeting symbolically represents their speed and efficiency, suggesting a new direction for governance.

The relationship between form and content

The change in state administration through a line of kimbap is not merely for show. It reflects a philosophy centered on practicality and prioritizing efficiency, emphasizing content through schedule compression and restructuring meal times. The focus on 'substance over form' and 'solutions over display' conveys a significant social message. The intended message delivered by this humble meal is far from trivial, and for it to be considered true simplicity, it must be supported by tangible results and policies that go beyond mere symbolism.

Psychological distance from the public

One line of gimbap can also be interpreted as a psychological attempt to bridge the distance with the people. The reality of office workers enduring with a line of gimbap and ordinary citizens relying on a cup of water serves as an opportunity for the president to evoke a sense of solidarity by sharing the same meal. This is not merely an expression of sympathy, but may reflect a new governance sense of a nation enduring together in the current society. Such changes will play an important role in building trust among the people.

Transition of Leadership and Sustainability

In the end, a single roll of kimbap signifies a shift in leadership and a change in governance philosophy. In an era where small actions can send significant signals, how the Lee Jae-myung administration can sustainably implement the way of 'talking about big things from small ones' will need to be proven in future policies, performance, and its relationship with the public. In this regard, kimbap, though humble, contains a powerful message and poses important questions about the direction of leadership in South Korea.