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

As complaints flooded in regarding 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 while publicizing the exact meaning of the artwork.

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

The association urged, "Due to misunderstandings caused by its unfamiliar appearance, the sculpture is currently covered with a cloth. Rather than removing this valuable 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 information boards containing the symbolic meaning and purpose of sign language are installed around the sculpture, alongside examples of famous domestic and international figures expressing the 'I love you' sign language, it can approach residents and visitors in a friendly manner."

She added, "Allowing children to encounter global international sign language can also help naturally improve awareness of disabilities. We hope for wise measures so that Songdo can be reborn as a true international city of 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) in the northern part of Songdo.

However, because the shape with the middle and ring fingers folded resembles an obscene hand gesture, residents have successively filed complaints demanding its immediate removal as a waste of tax money and an eyesore.

(Photo provided by Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.