hankyoreh

Chinese netizens are urging their compatriots to boycott South Korean products in an apparent retaliation for the Seoul government’s recent decision to deport Chinese student involved in violent protests during the Olympic torch relay. The intent of their message seemed to be to show their strong consumer power. Previously, this was proven during a similar boycott campaign against Carrefour.

In an Internet site comment, a Chinese student said that his compatriot students in South Korea are “in trouble,” asking other Chinese to join hands in boycotting Korean products in a way to “deal a blow” to the Korean government. Around 30 replies were added to the comment, with some 200 netizens expressing support for the move. Another Chinese netizen mentioned company names to be targeted by the boycott campaign. There were many other comments that ridiculed South Korea, with some saying there is no need to study in such a “small” country, while others were suggesting calling the nation “South Chaosen.”

Such an anti-Korean sentiment is not serious compared with the boycott campaign they waged against Carrefour. In addition, the speed at which it is spreading through Internet is relatively slow. However, it is still enough to cause worry among Korean companies doing business in China. These companies are now paying close attention to what action the Chinese would take in the future.

Please direct questions or comments to [englishhani@hani.co.kr]