The Seoul Metro Corporation confirmed on August 14 that it had removed Dokdo models from Jamsil Station on Line 2 and 8, and Anguk Station on Line 3. (Image courtesy of Seoul Metro)
SEOUL, Aug. 15 (Korea Bizwire) – The recent removal of miniature models of Dokdo, a set of islets at the center of a territorial dispute between South Korea and Japan, from Seoul’s subway stations has ignited a public debate about national sentiment and public safety.
The Seoul Metro Corporation confirmed on August 14 that it had removed Dokdo models from Jamsil Station on Line 2 and 8, and Anguk Station on Line 3. These models, installed 14 years ago, were part of a broader initiative to raise awareness about South Korea’s claim to the Dokdo islets.
The timing of the removals, just days before South Korea’s Liberation Day on August 15, has raised eyebrows among some citizens. Online communities buzzed with discussions, with many expressing disappointment and confusion over the decision.
“It gives a chilling feeling right before Liberation Day,” wrote one netizen, echoing a sentiment shared by many who viewed the models as symbols of national pride.
The Seoul Metro Corporation, however, defended its decision, citing public safety concerns.
A spokesperson for the corporation told the Hankyoreh newspaper, “We anticipated an increase in foot traffic at Jamsil Station with the opening of the Byeollae Line on August 10. At Anguk Station, we also observed a rise in tourist numbers, and the model’s central location posed a potential safety risk.”
The corporation emphasized that this move is part of broader efforts to address overcrowding issues in Seoul’s subway system, particularly in light of heightened safety awareness following the Itaewon crowd crush tragedy last year.
The Dokdo models, each costing about 20 million won and measuring 1.8m by 1.1m by 0.9m, were gifts from a private company, Gangnam Design Model, in 2010.
They were installed at six major stations, including City Hall and Gwanghwamun, in response to a resolution by the Seoul Metropolitan Council calling for measures to defend South Korea’s claim to Dokdo.
While the removed models have reportedly been discarded, Seoul Metro stated that there are currently no plans to remove the remaining models at City Hall, Itaewon, and Gimpo Airport stations.
The controversy highlights the delicate balance between maintaining symbols of national importance and addressing practical safety concerns in public spaces.
It also underscores the ongoing sensitivity surrounding the Dokdo issue in South Korean society.
A representative from Gangnam Design Model, the company that originally donated the models, expressed understanding for the safety concerns but added, “It’s regrettable that the models, which were donated with good intentions, have been removed.”
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
