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bernard Rowan

Rule of law (II)

This past week, I'm sure I heard the Statues of Liberty crying. There is the famous statue in New York, and there are others. We name them as we see them. Atlasobscura.com lists some of them. But they were crying, and so was I. It was a deafening sound for those who listened.

2021-01-12 17:00

Rule of law in democracies

Several events have occurred in the United States and Korea that prompt confusion of citizens concerning the rule of law. President Trump worked very hard to challenge the results of his unsuccessful reelection bid. He's held much-needed economic relief funds hostage to the idea they're inadequate. Finally, he's pardoned a host of friends and associates guilty of many crimes, raising howls and cries galore. In South Korea, President Moon Jae-in has apologized for confusion surrounding the failed attempt to punish and prosecute Yeon Seok-youl, the prosecutor general.

2020-12-29 17:05

Hope and luck in Korea

At this time in our year and century, with the horrible war that is COVID-19, I thought to write about good luck. The Korean word for good luck is “bok.” In ancient Greek it's “tuche.” Luck is something not to rely on. However, some say luck benefits those who already think prudently. That's what Machiavelli reminded us about fortune. To others, luck is foolish superstition and completely irrational. Each of us gets to decide, right?

2020-12-15 17:10

Biden and Korean security

As the United States, her allies and the world prepare for the end of the Trump presidency, the calls begin for President-elect Biden to develop a coherent foreign policy respecting America's commitments and partnerships. The morass of public health that is COVID-19 in the United States and elsewhere should speed America's return to multilateral initiatives. This includes relations with the Republic of Korea and foreign relations on the Korean Peninsula, as well as with surrounding countries Japan, Russia and China. The thicket is too thick. It will take more than four years to return Americ...

2020-12-01 17:54

After the sideshow

While President Trump mulls the end of his presidency, life begins to move forward. Next year, when Joseph Biden becomes president of the United States, the sideshow that's marked Trump's presidency will end. None too soon! Four years marked by a 19th century dodger in 21st century clothing shouldn't have happened. But democracies don't guarantee the ruler's virtue. Thank God we have a new leader in a country premised on “We the People,” not “I the Leader.”

2020-11-17 17:10

Belated happy birthday!

I want to write this column in praise of The Korea Times on its 70th birthday. I had every hope of visiting Seoul to celebrate with the staff, but COVID-19 has conspired against me. I look forward to visiting in future.

2020-11-03 16:54

Selma and the 'Mud-Snail Fairy'

By Bernard RowanRecently, I listened again to the song “Broken Wings”, recorded in the 1980s by Mr. Mister, an American group. The song is a stirring reminder of the possibilities of love triumphing over doubt and despair. This applies to love from faith, and to love between people, romantic or otherwise.In my looking around, I discovered that the song and famous MTV video took inspiration from the poignant novel by Khalil Gibran, titled “Broken Wings.” It tells the story of fated love shining past tragedy. It praises women and motherhood as universal paths of improve...

2020-10-20 17:11

Response to Yang's letter

Recently, I enjoyed the column by fellow opinion writer Lee Seong-hyon entitled “China's conditions to US” that was carried in this paper's Sept. 15 edition. I'd like to share some thoughts about Yang Jiechi's letter on Sino-American relations and some ideas that speak to America's foreign policy, or at least my view of it.

2020-10-06 17:14

Poet for good life

By Bernard RowanMy column concerns the newly published volume of poems by Professor Choi Yearn-Hong, entitled “Snows of Kilimanjaro.” I came to know Professor Choi through my senior, Professor Park Eung-kyuk, and of late we've collaborated on a few projects related to Korean history and culture, including the poetry of Yoon Dong-ju.Choi's book of poems will appeal to Koreans, Americans, and many others. Its reflections mark a keen observer of our world and a humanitarian. The touching vignettes evoke more general meanings arising from episodes of his life. He and we learn from po...

2020-09-22 17:02

Next advance is now

I'm sorry to read that coronavirus has re-emerged in South Korea as a problem. The Korea Times pages suggest cases have risen to 300 per day. Some churches and large gatherings have created the context for the spread of the disease.

2020-08-25 17:55

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