[Opinion] Mask

Sandaenoleum, which became popular in the Koryo Dynasty period and has been handed down through generations until today, is representative of Korean mask dancing festivals. In Sandaenoleum, which satires both the nobility and the depraved Buddhist monks and portrays the joys and sorrows of the poor as a dialog and satirical dance, every actor and actress wears a mask on their face. A Chuibalee, who missed his chance to marry a woman, wears a red mask with thick black eye brows and an absurdly huge mouth so that the spectators know immediately what character he is playing onstage. The mask has a profound historical lineage as the foundation of dramatic performances throughout the world. In ancient Greece, where European culture originated, many renowned playwrights took an active role and allowed every character in their play to wear a mask.

On a mask made of a wood or gourd, people bore a small hole to allow the actor communicate freely with the others. The word, “persona”, which refers to the characters in a play, stands for “through” (“per) and “sounds well” (“sona”) in Greek, and finds its origin in a mask with a mouth hole. When an actor or actress plays their role in earnest, their personality can be fully comprehended by the public. If a Chuibalee intercepts the dialogues and motions of the nobility and depraved monks, the whole stage will be drawn into confusion.

What is the real problem with our current society? People do not play their proper role at home and in society. A house without adults, a political world where the leaders are concerned with extraordinary activities, a labor union which is interested in participating in management, and students who concentrate on political extracurricular activities rather than schooling are obvious symptoms that clearly point toward the spiraling collapse of our society. The North Korea is suffering from the Yongchoen explosion, and South Korea refusing to provide North Korea’s request for 50 color television sets, is not at an appropriate attitude in a time when relief needs to be provided.

It appears that the impeachment bill decision will soon be rendered. The judges’ ultimate decision will attract much public attention. This problem began because of differences in opinion. I am very curious about the President’s reaction to the decision, no matter what the decision may be. The side that ultimately wins the decision should make concessions and soothe the other side with fine leadership. This can save the president and the whole country at the same time. Like a Chuibalee cannot take on the role of a noble, a noble is not a Chuibalee.

Kim Byung-ju, an Economics professor at Sogang University

pjkim@ccs.sogang.ac.kr