Dazzling smile underneath mask

• Published date: 26 February 2023
• Publication title: The Korea Times

"The first step is always the hardest." The way we wear face masks today reminds me of this proverb. It has been weeks since the indoor mask mandate was lifted in Korea except for certain high-risk places. And recently, on Feb. 17, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said that Korea may completely lift the indoor mask mandate earlier than forecast, as in May, if the downward trend of COVID-19 infections and the number of gravely ill patients continues. Nevertheless, masks have become an essential item for us.

After some three years, some people jest that going outside without a mask gives them a feeling of being naked. Personally, I couldn't agree more. I once shamefully covered my mouth when I found myself not wearing a mask. I am certain that many people would have a similar experience. Although we were frustrated by the nationwide mask mandate in the beginning, few grumble about wearing a mask these days as humans are such a clever and adaptive species.

As the world puts aside masks gradually, I slowly began to imagine a day without a mask, expecting I would become so appreciative and overwhelmed if I could go inside a building with a "naked" face.

I thought the whole world would be different once the mandate was lifted. However, my expectation was completely wrong. Only a handful of people have abandoned their masks.

Of course, I absolutely agree with wearing a mask due to the fear that viruses are still floating around. It is a precautionary measure taken to ward off contagious diseases.

However, there must be other reasons why we are still adhering to the practice. I asked people around me and questioned myself as to why we are still keeping masks on even though we know we do not have to. It all boils down to our consciousness. We travel...