"Secondary Victimization" vs. "A Runner's Way": Debate Grows Over 'Condolence Runs'

Recently, a tragic accident occurred in downtown Seoul where a runner in their 20s died during a marathon.

Is a debate currently unfolding among runners regarding the way they have been commemorating the event afterward?

Controversy is growing as posts certifying so-called "condolence runs"—where individuals run on behalf of the deceased to pay tribute—continue to be uploaded on social media.

Previously, on October 11, participant B, a person in their 20s who took part in the Seoul Race Half Marathon, collapsed and died about 500 meters away from the finish line.

Following the incident, a runner shared their exercise record, stating that they ran to mourn the deceased, and left a message saying, "We will finish the remaining 500 meters."

In response, netizens criticized the posts, stating, "If you are truly mourning, you should do it quietly; I don't understand why people feel the need to post proof on social media," and "Posting names and photos without the consent of the bereaved family can amount to secondary victimization."

On the other hand, some argued that commemorating the deceased through running has also been practiced overseas, viewing it as a way for runners to share their grief in their own unique way.

(Photo: Online Community)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.