Jean Lee

Throughout my life, Korea has been portrayed in different ways: as a rabbit. As a shrimp among whales. As a stepping stone.

When GEN Xavier T. Brunson looks at a map of Korea, he sees something entirely different: a dagger.

His portrayal of Korea as a “dagger in the heart of Asia” has provoked sharp words from Beijing. Discomfort in Seoul.

But I love the reference.
 
Historically, in Korea, women used to carry small daggers called jangdo (or eunjangdo if they were made of silver) that were not just jewelry hanging from their hanbok or tucked into their sleeves. They served as protection and as a practical tool. Some came equipped with tiny chopsticks, and the silver eunjangdo were used to check for arsenic poisoning.

The daggers were not just ornamental. They had purpose as well as serving as self-protection. They were a symbol of honor, fidelity and strength.

The framing of Korea as a dagger is so much more powerful and proactive than a rabbit, shrimp or stepping stone — and appropriate now for a country that has grown in economic, technological and cultural might. No longer a stepping stone. No longer a shrimp. Small but mighty.

I was honored to welcome General Brunson to join us in Seoul for a discussion with the @thecouncilka about the legacy of the Korean War, Korea’s place in regional security, and his role as a four-star general who wears three hats: as commander of the United Nations Command, the Combined Forces Command, and US Forces Korea. Thank you, General, for your leadership and reflectiveness. 
 
Photos by Sgt. Daniela Lechuga Liggio (aside from my selfie!)