The hidden messages behind a politician's 90-degree bow in South Korea

In the world of South Korean politics, even a simple bow carries significant weight and unspoken messages. The Democratic Party consistently begins its morning meetings, whether a supreme council or a policy coordination meeting, with a formal 90-degree bow. In contrast, the People Power Party has no such ritual, with leaders typically commencing meetings by simply stating, "We will now begin the supreme council meeting."

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Politicians do not bow 90 degrees without reason. Above the bent waist lies the message they want to convey: gratitude, request, appeal, or apology.

For photojournalists, a politician's bow is more than just a gesture; it's a critical moment that can make or break a photograph. The angle, duration, and visibility of the bow are crucial. Photographers often position themselves strategically, hoping the politician will bow in their direction. A bow obscured by a podium or from an unfavorable angle can lead to unusable photos, causing significant professional distress. Many politicians, understanding this, often perform a second, more pronounced bow at the end of their remarks, a gesture that can be a lifeline for photographers who missed the first opportunity.

The article highlights various instances of politicians using this gesture. President Lee Jae-myung was seen bowing 90 degrees to SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won and Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong during a national project briefing, an act interpreted as a deep expression of gratitude and respect for their investment decisions. This contrasts with the common practice of party leaders bowing to their members.

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If you miss the shot of the bow, you'll be cursed by your desk. You'll have no strength to even pick up your spoon.

A particularly striking example is former President Yoon Suk-yeol's extensive bowing to supporters upon his release from detention. Despite his reputation for a stiff demeanor, Yoon bowed nearly eight times, a gesture seen as a display of gratitude to his supporters. However, the article notes the absence of any apology to the broader public who may have been hurt by his actions, suggesting that the message of the bow was directed solely at his base. Ultimately, the article posits that a politician's 90-degree bow is never without reason, conveying messages of gratitude, requests, appeals, or apologies, and is often a carefully calculated performance.

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He bowed his head nearly eight times, meticulously showing gratitude to his supporters, but never once offered an apology to the public who were hurt.