이 시국에

The meme '이 시국에' (I Siguk-e) first gained public use around 2016, coinciding with the Park Geun-hye-Choi Soon-sil scandal. At that time, it was frequently used with a serious meaning amidst the chaotic political situation, but its usage decreased after President Park Geun-hye's impeachment in 2017. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it saw a massive resurgence, even spawning the derivative term '코시국' (Kosi-guk, meaning "COVID-19 era"). Its use gradually declined from late 2022 as social distancing measures were eased.

The phrase '이 시국에' (I Siguk-e) originates from the word '시국' (siguk), which originally refers to "the current domestic and international political situation or trend." As a meme, it carries a critical or questioning nuance, implying, "Given the current situation, how can you say or do such a thing?" It can be broadly applied to anything perceived negatively in Korean society or anything deemed inappropriate for the current circumstances. Initially used for serious criticism, its meaning gradually expanded to include lighthearted jokes or mockery.

It was widely used across all generations, not limited to a specific age group or gender, primarily among online community users interested in current affairs and social issues.

• "이 시국에 해외여행을 간다고요?" (You're going on an overseas trip at a time like this?)
• "ㅇㅅㄱㅇ?" (A shorthand initialism used online for brevity)
• "이 시국에 그런 발언은 좀..." (Saying something like that, at a time like this...)
• "이 시국에 개인교습" (Private Tutoring in This Era) (Title of a webtoon set during the COVID-19 pandemic)

Overuse of the '이 시국에' meme can be perceived as excessive criticism or mockery, or it can make the atmosphere awkward depending on the situation.

Ee Shee-guk-eh