Le vol de pièces à Cheonggyecheon suscite l'indignation

A middle-aged couple has been accused of stealing coins from Palseokdam, a popular wish-making spot at Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul, sparking public outrage and calls for stricter enforcement. A viral video shared on X on Sunday shows the pair wading into the shallow waters of the pond wearing slides, collecting coins before stuffing them into their bags. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation online, with many viewers condemning the act as disrespectful to both the cultural tradition and the charitable purpose of the coins. Cheonggyecheon Stream, which runs through central Seoul, was restored in 2005 after decades spent buried beneath the city. Palseokdam, located near Mojeongyo Bridge, is one of 22 bridges along the 5.8-kilometer-long waterway. The pond was specifically constructed to honor the stream’s revival and features stones sourced from across the nation, symbolizing the eight provinces of the Joseon dynasty. Since its creation, the site has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, particularly during festive seasons when visitors toss coins into the water as part of a traditional wish-making ritual. In response to growing numbers of visitors engaging in the coin-tossing practice, the Seoul Metropolitan Government introduced a “wish stone” at the heart of Palseokdam in 2008. This initiative aimed to formalize the custom and ensure the coins collected were properly managed. Once the collection reaches a certain volume, the city government gathers the coins and donates them to local charities. Korean coins are distributed to the Seoul Scholarship Foundation, while foreign coins are sent to the Korean Committee for UNICEF. From 2005 until May of last year, the total value of coins collected from the pond reached approximately 448.08 million won ($304,000). Legal experts have pointed out that removing coins from Palseokdam without authorization could be classified as theft under South Korean law. Article 329 of the Criminal Act outlines penalties for such acts, including imprisonment for up to six years or a fine of up to 10 million won. Online commenters have urged authorities to identify the individuals in the video using CCTV footage and take appropriate legal measures. One user remarked, “These aren’t just ordinary coins. They represent each visitor’s wishes and spirit of giving. To prevent similar incidents from happening again, authorities should step up on-site enforcement.” The incident has reignited discussions about the balance between preserving cultural traditions and ensuring their proper management. While the coin-tossing ritual holds deep sentimental and spiritual meaning for many, the recent theft highlights potential vulnerabilities in how these practices are regulated. Some have suggested increasing surveillance at the site, implementing clearer signage, or even introducing a system for tracking the coins to prevent unauthorized removal. Authorities have yet to confirm whether the couple in the video will be identified or if any legal action will follow. However, the controversy underscores the broader challenge of maintaining the integrity of cultural customs while safeguarding their intended purpose. As the debate continues, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting both historical traditions and the institutions that support them.