Costing 200 Million Won, Sculpture Criticized as "Middle Finger" Covered Up: Deaf Association Appeals Against Removal

▲ The sculpture covered with a cloth

As complaints flooded in over a large hand-shaped sculpture installed in Songdo International City, comparing it to an obscene hand gesture, the Association of the Deaf appealed to prevent its removal by explaining the accurate meaning of the sculpture.

Today (21st), the Yeonsu-gu branch of the Incheon Association of the Deaf released a statement saying, "The controversial sculpture is a work with a profound meaning, expressing 'I love you' in universal sign language."

The association urged, "Due to misunderstandings caused by its unfamiliar appearance, the sculpture is currently covered with a cloth. Rather than removing a valuable piece of public art, the issue should be resolved by widely publicizing its planning intent and cultural significance."

Lee Joo-soon, head of the Yeonsu-gu branch of the Incheon Association of the Deaf, suggested, "If we install signposts around the sculpture detailing the symbolic meaning and purpose of sign language, along with examples of famous domestic and international figures expressing 'I love you' in sign language, it can approach residents and visitors in a friendly manner."

She added, "Allowing children to experience universal international sign language can also help naturally improve awareness of disabilities. We look forward to wise measures so that Songdo can be reborn as an international city of true inclusion and communication beyond misunderstandings."

Previously, the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority spent approximately 200 million won to install a human hand-shaped sculpture 4 to 5 meters in height along the coast of Long Beach Park (Landmark City Waterfront Park No. 1) at the northern end of Songdo.

However, because the shape with the middle and ring fingers folded resembled an offensive hand gesture, residents' complaints poured in demanding its immediate removal as an eyesore that wasted taxpayer money.

(Photo provided by Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority, Yonhap News)

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