It is encouraging that there is such an active effort to aide the residents of Ryongchon, hurt by the train explosion there. Knowing that there are people injured and displaced waiting desperately for help, one wants to send medical supplies as soon as possible and even run up there personally. Our expression of that desire was expressed in our offer to send needed supplies by land and also medical staff. It is frustrating that the North is reluctant and has turned down that offer, even while expressing its gratitude.

The North probably has its reasons, however. One can make guesses as to what that is. What's most important is that we thoroughly convey our earnest desire to share in their pain and do all we can to help. And the right thing to do is to consider their circumstances and cooperate with their wishes instead of insisting on our own ways. The principle of humanitarian relief is to respect their judgment and take measures accordingly, with a generous heart even if the situation is slightly unlike how we'd prefer it to be. We should not feel hurt and the warm should not cool when we think they won't recognize the purity of our intentions. Opening our hearts and helping actively without making a scene about it in order to avoid offense is how you express consideration for others and honestly impress them. If we approach them with open hearts, we should be able to find a rational and realistic means to give assistance.

The damage from the Ryongchon station disaster is so big that recovery over a short period will clearly be difficult. Concentrating on emergency assistance comes first, but we should also gradually find ways of helping over the long-term. We hope the government will actively ponder aid measures that include heavy machinery for facilities construction so that those displaced by the disaster and who are shivering in cold and hunger can have warm homes again as soon as possible. The true meaning of disaster relief is helping those in despair have the courage to rise again. It will be of extra benefit if it also leads to wider understanding between North and South and contributes to Korean national reconciliation.

The Hankyoreh, 28 April 2004.