The Rise of Malicious Reviews on Historical Sites
In recent times, a disturbing trend has emerged on map apps where users have been leaving malicious comments on historical sites. These reviews, often filled with anger and profanity, target the tombs of Korean kings, leading to a significant drop in their average ratings. One such example is Gwangneung, the tomb of King Sejo and Queen Jeonghui, which has received a 1.8-star rating. The comments are not just random; they are fueled by fictional content that portrays these historical figures in a negative light.
The issue began after the release of a webtoon featuring Danjong, a figure associated with King Sejo. Viewers of the webtoon have taken to the review sections to express their anger towards King Sejo, who was known for ousting his nephew. This has led to an influx of insults and derogatory remarks, transforming what was once a space for sharing positive experiences into a battleground of negativity.
A Pattern of Misinformation
This pattern is not unique to Gwangneung. During the broadcast period of the dramaBon Appetit, Your Majesty, which concluded two months ago, similar malicious reviews started appearing for the tomb of King Yeonsangun in Dobong-gu, Seoul. Comments like “the greatest psychopath in Joseon” and “a notorious tyrant” were posted, reflecting the influence of the fictional narrative on public perception.
The drama, a fictional fantasy centered on King Yeonsangun, has sparked a wave of negative comments, highlighting how media can shape public opinion. This phenomenon is not limited to historical sites; it extends to other locations as well. For instance, a four-way intersection in Gwanak-gu, Seoul, received a 1-star rating with a comment stating, “The green light doesn’t change, you bastards.” This shows that the frustration of users is not confined to historical landmarks but spills over into everyday infrastructure.
Emotional Release in Digital Spaces
Experts have noted that the surge in malicious comments is a reflection of broader societal issues. As online spaces become outlets for emotional release, daily frustrations are being expressed as emotional violence toward historical figures or even inanimate objects. Professor Koo Jeong-woo from the Department of Sociology at Sungkyunkwan University explained, “It appears people are venting personal grievances while hiding behind anonymity. Typically, those who leave malicious comments hold a misguided belief that destroying norms is a form of justice.”
This behavior is not just about expressing dissatisfaction; it’s also about asserting identity in digital tribal societies. Professor Kim Yoon-tae from the Department of Sociology at Korea University added, “Online communities function as a sort of ‘digital tribal society,’ where people use more provocative language to assert their presence. Like herd mentality, there’s a strong imitation effect—‘If others are doing it, I can too.’”
The Impact on Public Perception
The impact of these malicious reviews is significant. They not only tarnish the reputation of historical sites but also contribute to a distorted understanding of history. The comments often lack constructive criticism and instead focus on personal attacks, which can lead to a misrepresentation of the historical figures involved.
Moreover, the trend highlights a deeper issue in how society interacts with digital platforms. As more people turn to online spaces for expression, the line between constructive dialogue and destructive behavior becomes blurred. This raises questions about the responsibility of both users and platform creators in maintaining a respectful and informative environment.
Conclusion
The rise of malicious reviews on historical sites reflects a complex interplay of media influence, societal frustrations, and digital behavior. As users continue to express their emotions online, it is crucial to address the underlying issues that drive such behavior. By fostering a culture of respect and understanding, we can ensure that digital spaces remain a positive and constructive part of our society.