"Civil space" but "Cross" on Christmas tree in Seoul square … controversial for "appropriateness" of symbol of specific religion = Korea

The "cross" decoration on the Christmas tree in Seoul Square in South Korea has raised the question, "Is a symbol of a particular religion appropriate for a civic space?" On the other hand, the city of Seoul, which is responsible for the operation and management of Seoul Plaza, is cautious.

On November 19th, the Christmas tree in Seoul Plaza was lit up at a lighting ceremony attended by Seoul Mayor Oh Sehun.

Regarding this Christmas tree, SNS users said, "In Europe such as Germany and the United States, public institutions are very careful about hanging crosses and decorating stars on Christmas trees", and "I don't understand why the city puts a cross on the Christmas tree."

In fact, citizens' reactions to seeing the Christmas tree vary. One citizen said, "I was a little suspicious when I saw the cross", while another said, "Maybe I'm a Christian, so I don't know what's wrong."

The city of Seoul is aware of the oddities surrounding the cross, but they are cautious. First, the city of Seoul is not directly responsible for setting up the Christmas tree. The Christmas tree was installed not by the city of Seoul, but by CTS Christian TV, which paid the city a usage fee to install it. However, in order to use Seoul Plaza, it is necessary to go through the procedure of applying for use in the city.

Since the cross on the Christmas tree in Seoul Square appeared in 2013, there have been reactions, but the city has yet to give a clear answer. A Seoul city official said, "We are aware of the dissent, but we have determined that restricting the cross is also "infringing on religious freedom", and we are maintaining it." The Other official said, "We are trying to make events with religious significance, such as the Buddha's birthday, fit the mood of the people."