[Opinion] Looking for Leadership in Post-World Cup Era

June was an exciting month not only to the people of Korea but also to ethnic Koreans dispersed throughout the world. I woke up early in the morning to watch Korea’s semi-final match, and so did many other Koreans living in the U.S. who struggle with foreign languages and cultures to survive in the competition.

We all felt sheer feelings of pride and confidence. Korea’s advance to the semi-finals not only promoted the country to the outside world but also gave everyone of us the “We can do it” mentality.

And now we need sound leadership that will turn the dynamic energy into a driving force of the nation’s elevation. Seeing the government jumping on the bandwagon - military service exemption and designation of national holiday for example, I cannot but raise questions about soundness of political leadership.

Our pure energy shocked the entire world during the World Cup games. Every one of us was the host and a part of the global festival, not a bystander. And what we need now is the leadership that can mobilize our energy and tap into the sense of pride. So far, politicians have made mistakes by regarding people as idle guests instead of hardworking hosts.

Despite two centuries of history, the U.S. has become the most powerful country in the world, as Americans feel proud of being a part of the democracy and volunteerism guarded by their political leaders. Guus Hiddink also trained and encouraged his players so that they can fully utilize their potential and creativity.

In a free democratic country, it must be considered an honor to defend the nation by fulfilling military duty. Political leaders, however, lifted military duty for players as if the exemption were a reward, while failing to change the misconception that the military service is for those who do not have connections or influence. The decision was mere political maneuvering and a slap to most people loyal to their country.

If it is better for the country that players continue working on the ground instead of joining the military, the government must have assigned them other forms of duties so that they can serve the country just like others.

In the U.S. those running for public office become subject to scrutiny that looks into whether candidates or their family members ever dodged military duties. That’s because they believe anyone refusing to do his bit is not entitled to represent the nation and the people. And I believe that when people, not politicians, become hosts of Korea, the strength and energy mobilized during the World Cup will turn into a driving force for the nation’s betterment and growth in this era of global competition.