‘Chalm-bap’ Grandma’s Act of Compassion Resonates in Busan Election
A heartwarming encounter between a street vendor and a political candidate in Busan has captured public attention, with many crediting the simple act of kindness for a surprising election victory. Kim Bok-ak, an 80-year-old woman who sells vegetables on the street, became known as the “Chalm-bap Grandma” after sharing her homemade lunchbox with a candidate during his campaign. This act of solidarity appears to have significantly influenced the election outcome in the Buk District.
A Simple Meal, A Profound Impact
The story gained widespread attention when a YouTube video of Kim Bok-ak sharing her chalm-bap (a simple rice lunchbox) with Han Dong-hoon, a candidate for the National Assembly in Busan’s Buk District, went viral, garnering over 500,000 views. Political observers suggest that this moment played a crucial role in changing the public’s perception of Han, who was initially perceived by some as having a stern background.
Residents in the area also noted the impact of the interaction. “We only knew the candidate as someone with a cold, prosecutorial background,” shared one local. “Seeing him treat the ‘Chalm-bap Grandma’ so kindly moved our hearts.””
A Life of Hard Work and Generosity
Kim Bok-ak has been selling vegetables she grows herself – including tomatoes, peas, and perilla leaves – at the Gupo Market for the past decade. Despite rainy weather on the day of the interview, she opened her stall at 10 a.m., dressed in a pink t-shirt and red pants.
Her stall quickly drew a crowd of about ten customers, who recognized her as the woman who supported Han Dong-hoon. “I didn’t do much,” Kim modestly stated. “The representative succeeded because he worked hard.”” Her popularity has even attracted customers from outside Busan, with one individual traveling from Daegu to purchase tomatoes and receiving a few extra as a gift.
Kim lives alone in Buwon-dong, Gimhae, having been widowed about 20 years ago. She cultivates vegetables on a rented 100-pyeong plot of land. Her day begins at 4 a.m. with farm work before she prepares her produce for sale at the market. The journey from her home to the Gupo Market takes about 40 minutes by subway, and she transports her goods by handcart.
A Shared Experience of Solitude
The connection between Kim and Han began in April. During a campaign stop at the Gupo Market, Han extended his hand for a handshake. Kim, noticing his tired expression, offered him a tomato from her stall. She later realized the tomato was slightly bruised and felt apologetic, offering him a better one from her best selection.
Han had been visiting the market daily during his campaign. Kim recalled, “The bodyguard said the prosecutor candidate often skipped meals due to his busy schedule. I felt sorry for him.” From that day on, Kim began preparing a chalm-bap lunchbox for Han every day.
On Parents’ Day, May 8th, Han visited Kim again. He knelt before her and said, “I’ve returned. Have you eaten? Thank you for the tomatoes you gave me before.” Kim asked if he had eaten, and Han replied that he often struggled to get regular meals. Kim then offered him the chalm-bap, kimchi, and side dishes she had prepared, saying, “I made this for you to eat during your campaign.” Han sat on the street with Kim and shared the meal.
When asked about the chalm-bap, Kim downplayed its significance, stating, “It’s nothing.” She explained that she felt a sense of solidarity with Han, who was campaigning alone, and that sharing the meal brought her comfort. “Representative Han was pushed out of his party alone,” she said. “I am also sitting alone on the street. It feels good to share our feelings.””
Facing Challenges and Expressing Hope
News of Kim’s interaction with Han has brought both increased attention and some difficulties. Some individuals have approached her aggressively, questioning her involvement in politics. Others have made dismissive remarks. Despite these challenges, Kim remains steadfast.
Recently, city officials visited her stall, citing a report about illegal street vending, forcing her to stop selling for a period. However, she has also received gifts of medicine, warm clothing, and hats from supportive individuals.
Kim dismisses any claims that Han is using her for political gain, stating, “That’s absurd. If I wanted to give chalm-bap to politicians, I wouldn’t have only offered it to Han. I haven’t even seen the faces of actors like Ha Jung-woo or Park Min-sik.” She draws a parallel between Han and former President Kim Young-sam, expressing admiration for Han’s campaigning efforts.
When asked about her hopes for the political sphere, Kim stated, “I’ve lived a full life, I’ve done business, and I’ve earned and spent enough. I may be living frugally now, but my heart is warm. There are many people like me who don’t receive benefits, but also many who exploit the system and receive welfare. I don’t know about other things, but this government must thoroughly investigate those who are taking money through the back door.””
