Introduction to the Scenario
Imagine for a moment that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sets aside his country’s and Europe’s issues, forgetting military threats such as Russia in Ukraine and the United States in Greenland, to send an urgent letter to Palacio Nacional.
The Letter from President Sheinbaum
In this letter to President Claudia Sheinbaum, he requests her intervention so that Carín León can return to Berlin soon after his successful performance at Astra Kulturhaus, as the Berliners were captivated by the Sonoran and wanted him back with such high-level diplomatic intervention.
The Significance of the Letter
The sending of a letter from President Sheinbaum to the government of South Korea to arrange more BTS concert dates is, at the very least, a milestone in showbiz diplomacy.
Populism and Priorities
This is more than just an anecdote; it’s an example of the priorities in a populist country saturated with difficulties across all frontiers, including security issues.
Hypothetical Addition to the Letter
Imagine if, in his letter, besides requesting President (not Prime Minister) Lee Jae-myung’s intervention for more BTS concerts, he also asked about the secret of his economic and social miracle, something like: “What can Mexico do to resemble South Korea?”
The Hypothetical Korean Response
The Korean response would ideally be: “Dear President, we have taken note of your interest in our music. Indeed, the seven young members of BTS are a national pride; their representatives, driven by private initiative with rules but not accepting political pressures, might consider future dates for more concerts in your country.”
Regarding the “Miracle on the Han River” Recipe
“As for the ‘Miracle on the Han River’ recipe, Mexico would need more than choreography; state discipline is indispensable.”
Core Values and Investments
“Today, we have BTS, but you possess natural resources we’ve never even dreamt of. What we do have is a vast population, which we choose to invest in education—not as a form of political control or union bargaining chip, but for excellence.”
South Korea’s Development Strategy
“Our treasure is human capital, which is why we invest 7.0% of our GDP in education without distributing money in scholarships that buy loyalty but rather for excellence. The Korean development did not start with ideological obstacles or enlightened characters; it was an alliance between the state and private industry.”
Attracting Investments
“We understand that capital is timid, and more than a nearshoring promise, investments need to be kept away from judicial noise, authoritarian pulse, and insufficient or uncompetitive energy sources.”
Final Thoughts on Development
“As I see that you appreciate BTS, let me share that these young men had to pause their highly successful music career to fulfill mandatory military service. Our geopolitical circumstances compel this. The point is that development is achieved where laws are obeyed.”
Key Questions and Answers
- Question: This scenario highlights the unique approach to diplomacy, where cultural exchanges and entertainment play a role in international relations.
- Question: South Korea attributes its development to a strong alliance between the state and private industry, focusing on human capital investment and disciplined execution.
- Question: Mexico could consider investing in human capital, ensuring disciplined execution of policies, and fostering a strong partnership between the state and private sector for sustainable development.
