The video, captured during a public dinner event in Gwanghwamun, shows President Lee who passes a bottle of Soju to a woman next to him without a word. Then proceed to pour a drink into his glass. The accident, widely shared on social media platforms such as X (previously Twitter), aroused debate on obsolete roles still present in Korean social culture.
Critics claimed that the scene strengthens the antiquated notion of women who need drinks to older men during the dinners of the company – a dynamic young Korean women refuse.
“Why couldn’t he pour his drink after preparing his Soju bomb?” He asked for a user.
“I have worked in companies dominated by men for years, but I have never seen someone delivering such a bottle during a company dinner”, Another commented.
“If you are a woman, seeing this photo and not feeling uncomfortable would be strange”, A third user added. “Imagine the CEO of your company instead of President Lee – and you are the one next to him.”
Despite the recourse, others defended the actions of the president as friendly and informal, seeing the gathering as a welcome break from the rigid protocol.
“Even if only a good friend poured me to drink, I would be happy. Imagine the president!” A user wrote.
“This is a humble and concrete president. It is just an dinner on Friday-what’s wrong?” Another discussed.
President Lee later shared photos of the event on his official Facebook page, writing,“It was significant to meet face -to -face citizens and listen to their stories about the economy and increase in prices.” He added, “Reviving the local neighborhoods is crucial for our economy”.
He also used the post to promote others Liese recovery consumption couponsdestined to launch on July 21, which aims to improve local and economic circulation.
“I hope you will unite by having dinner in your local restaurants. Your participation can help to raise the local economy and take us to a brighter future for Korea”, He wrote.
