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Others2026.02.02Image of Africa in digital era
What comes to mind first when you hear the word “Africa”? If words like poverty, conflict, hunger, or aid recipient automatically come to mind, this may not simply reflect individual perception. It is more likely the result of a structural information environment shaped by the digital media we encounter every day. Most people do not experience Africa directly. Instead, they learn about Africa indirectly through news coverage, search engines, automated summaries, and generative AI. In this process, information does more than convey facts. It constructs images. Over time, these images solidify into social standards of perception. The problem is that these standards are increasingly unbalanced and repeatedly reproduced within a narrow frame. ------------------------------- ❶ Generative AI Images: Visual Amplification of Bias When users request images of “daily life in Africa,” generative AI still tends to produce scenes centered on rural settings, traditional clothing, manual labor, and natural environments. In contrast, everyday life in Europe, the Americas, or Asia is more often depicted through urban spaces, modern clothing, leisure, and consumption. These representations may reflect parts of reality, but they are not the whole story. When only certain images are repeatedly generated, they become fixed as a single narrative, reinforcing biased perceptions of Africa. This bias is also evident in professional imagery. When generating images of judges, professors, doctors, or lawyers, white individuals appear overwhelmingly more frequently, while Black representation remains extremely limited. The settings also tend to center on Western urban spaces. As these unrepresentative visuals accumulate, stereotypes about regions and racial groups are reinforced, leading to distorted perceptions of social roles and capabilities. ❷ The “Invisible Bias” of Search Algorithms Search engines’ related search terms and top image results also play a direct role in shaping perceptions of Africa. On major platforms such as Google, Naver, and Bing, searches for “Africa images” predominantly surface scenes of deserts, wildlife, traditional clothing, and tribal culture. Searches related to “African people” often display images associated with poverty or hunger at the top, and related search terms sometimes include phrases like “images of poor people in Africa” or “images of starving people in Africa.” Conversely, when users search for “hunger,” “poverty,” or “underdevelopment,” images of African children frequently appear at the top. Notably, many of these images originate from humanitarian aid campaigns. While these efforts are grounded in goodwill, they paradoxically reinforce Africa as a symbol of poverty. This algorithmic structure strengthens certain images regardless of user intent, making balanced information access increasingly difficult. ------------------------------- ▶ Why a Shift in Perception Is Urgently Needed Repeated distorted narratives in the digital environment reduce Africa to a single image, obscuring its modern diversity, urbanization, industrial transformation, and cultural dynamism. This is not merely a representational issue. It is a structural problem that influences international cooperation, policy perception, and global citizenship as a whole. ▶ What Must Change ◦ Generative AI services must establish bias-auditing systems for both training data and outputs, ensuring standards that reflect diversity and representativeness. ◦ Search platforms must improve algorithms and reinforce public responsibility so that related search terms and image rankings do not reinforce narrow frames. ▶ Restoring the Reality of Africa Africa is not a single image. It is a continent of 54 countries, countless cultures, industries, transformations, and possibilities. What we need now is a balanced and distortion-free information environment. Examining our language, images, and algorithms is not optional. It is a responsibility of global citizenship. The first step toward a fair and balanced global perception begins with our collective choices. As global citizens, we must question not only what we see, but WHY we see it. Challenging digital bias is not just about Africa. It is about building a fairer, more truthful world for everyone.scene
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International Affairs2025.11.05Global Brands, Redraw the Map!
The world map we see every day is far from neutral. The Mercator Projection, still used in countless websites, news graphics, and corporate pages, visually and unconsciously cements a worldview centered on the Global North. On this map, Europe and North America appear far larger than they are, while Africa is portrayed less than half of its true size. A map, therefore, is not mere information. It is a visualization of power. It defines what we accept as the “standard” view of the world. From this perspective, the fact that many global corporations continue to use the Mercator Projection on their websites, marketing visuals, and official reports cannot be dismissed as a simple oversight. It reveals an unconscious attachment to a Western-centric worldview. Particularly for companies like Microsoft, Nike, Coca-Cola, and Mastercard, whose business and social impact are deeply connected to Africa, the continued use of the Mercator world map is a symbol that urgently needs to change. The Mercator projection minimizes the African continent’s scale. This distortion, even unintentionally, may contribute to diminishing Africa’s perceived significance and influence in the global community. This issue has been publicly raised by the African Union, various African governments, and civil organizations, who have called for a shift toward fairer projections such as Equal Earth and Gall-Peters. Their “Correct the Map” campaign emphasizes that Africa is, in fact, larger than Europe, China, the U.S., India, and Japan combined, yet it continues to be drawn small. This is not a simple “error”; it is a visual and cognitive inequality. What must change now is clear: "global brands must start by redrawing their maps." Corporate websites, campaign visuals, and annual reports should no longer rely on the Mercator Projection. Instead, they should adopt projections like Equal Earth or Gall-Peters, which more accurately reflect the planet’s true proportions. This seemingly small design choice carries a powerful message: “We see the world fairly.” When users visit a brand’s website and see a map that treats every region equally, that visual fairness builds genuine trust in the brand’s values. Microsoft has already identified Africa as a key region for digital growth through initiatives like Microsoft 4Africa, supporting startups and government digitization efforts. Now, their maps should reflect that reality, showing Africa not as “smaller,” but as it truly is. Nike, whose guiding belief is that “everyone has limitless potential,” should reflect that same inclusivity in its visual worldview. A brand that sponsors African football and community programs should ensure that its maps embody the same principle of equality it champions. Coca-Cola and Mastercard are no different. Coca-Cola has created over a million jobs across 54 African countries, while Mastercard has been advancing digital finance and infrastructure for young Africans. If these corporations truly advocate “inclusive growth,” then inclusivity must also appear in their design and data representation. Before changing policies or campaigns, they must first change their perspective. To recognize the voices of African citizens calling for a fairer world map and to strengthen the global movement for map reform, we respectfully urge leading Korean global companies to take the initiative in this effort. Samsung, selected as the most trusted brand in Africa in 2017, has been striving since 2011 to provide digital education infrastructure in rural areas across the continent. Beyond that, it has made continuous efforts to support community self-reliance. Just as Chairman Lee Jae-yong once said that, in order to build a global market strategy, one should “turn the map upside down and see Korea at the center of the world,” it is now time to move beyond simple aid and become a true partner that helps African nations expand their influence in the international community. Similarly, Hyundai has gone beyond a sales expansion strategy in Africa and is seeking ways to achieve co-prosperous cooperation with African countries. Through initiatives such as scholarship programs for talent development and the establishment of research centers in developing countries, Hyundai has demonstrated its commitment to meaningful CSR activities. Lastly, Kia has also shown sustained interest and support for Africa through its CSR initiative, the “Green Light Project,” which empowers people in underdeveloped countries, including 15 African nations, by establishing 19 project centers that provide opportunities for challenge and growth. Corporate websites and official reports by these global companies are not just internal documents. They are widely cited by media, governments, and public institutions. A distorted world map on a corporate platform can therefore be replicated and recirculated multiple times, reinforcing an outdated worldview. Of course, the Mercator Projection has historical utility; created in the 16th century, it served navigational purposes and became globally standardized. But today, when calls for spatial and representational fairness grow louder, there is no reason not to choose a more accurate alternative. Maps are not just products of geography. They are windows through which we see and understand the world. It is time to adjust that window, to move beyond the language of old power and toward a vision of equality and fairness. To that end, global corporations are urged to take the following actions: (1) Update existing maps on corporate websites, platforms, and reports replacing Mercator projections with alternatives like Equal Earth or Gall-Peters. (2) If immediate replacement is difficult, include a disclaimer such as: “This map uses the Mercator projection, which may distort the relative size of southern hemisphere continents.” Alternatively, display Mercator and accurate projections side by side for comparison. (3) Establish internal education and design guidelines: Train designers, marketers, and engineers on the social implications of map design, and include an Equitable Map Standard within the company’s brand and visual identity manual.scene
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Culture & History2025.10.28Stop Clicking, Start Thinking
The world is becoming increasingly interconnected, and information and technology are powerful tools that shape our perspectives and understanding. In this new era, artificial intelligence (AI) has become one of the most influential sources of knowledge. People today often turn to AI platforms, not textbooks, media, or even search engines to learn about the world. As a result, AI-generated information now defines how millions perceive other cultures, histories, and regions. However, the portrayal of Africa in today’s AI systems, media, and educational materials remains trapped in outdated biases and distorted views. Many still perceive Africa as a “continent in need,” a “primitive or natural space,” or a “traditional tribal society.” This is not just a matter of inaccurate imagery. It reduces African societies and people to simplistic, passive roles. The reality is very different. Africa is a continent where modern society, industry, technology, and culture coexist. More than half of the African population now lives in urban areas, with major cities such as Nairobi, Lagos, Casablanca, and Cape Town serving as hubs of global economic and cultural activity. Innovations like Rwanda’s mobile banking industry and M-PESA, as well as Nigeria’s burgeoning startup ecosystem, demonstrate that Africa is at the forefront of technological development. Despite this, AI and media continue to emphasize nature, tradition, and tribal life, while modern achievements remain largely invisible. What makes this issue even more alarming is that AI does not simply reflect bias. It amplifies it. When AI systems are trained on limited or skewed datasets, these distortions are reproduced and spread globally at unprecedented speed. Every image generated, every answer produced, becomes part of a feedback loop that reinforces existing stereotypes. As AI becomes the default gateway for knowledge, a biased algorithm can silently shape the worldview of an entire generation. Africa is also confined by the stereotype of being a “recipient of aid.” Narratives centered on poverty, conflict, and humanitarian assistance dominate, overshadowing African agency and contributions. Structurally, these narratives often depict white individuals as “saviors,” obscuring Africa’s economic, cultural, and innovative impact on the world. Globally recognized figures such as South African entrepreneur Elon Musk or Tanzanian-born music icon Freddie Mercury rarely receive media coverage that highlights their African roots. These biased portrayals distort the perception of Africa’s modern role in the global community. Furthermore, the continent’s diversity is frequently erased. Africa’s 54 countries, countless ethnic groups, and regional differences are often flattened into a single image. Climate diversity is another overlooked reality: Africa is home not only to the Sahara Desert but also to the Lesotho ski slopes, penguin colonies along South Africa’s coast, and the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, representing more than a dozen distinct climate zones. North Africa has a majority of populations of European descent, and the continent exhibits a wide spectrum of skin tones and ethnicities. Yet, AI and media repeatedly propagate the misconception that “all Africans are Black.” These biases do more than misinform. They erase the reality of Africa and lead the global community to view African societies as incomplete or passive. As AI-generated images, text, and data become embedded in education, journalism, and everyday conversation, the consequences of bias are multiplied. This not only distorts global understanding but also undermines Africa’s dignity, identity, and rightful place in the modern world. Therefore, I call for the following actions: (1) To AI platform companies -> Ensure diversity in data and training models : AI systems should be trained on images and text that accurately reflect Africa’s modern cities, industries, technology, culture, and ethnic diversity. : Such as startups in Lagos, Rwanda’s M-PESA mobile banking innovation, industrial hubs in Cape Town. -> Collaborate with local experts : Since AI platforms are often led by a small number of technologically advanced countries, collaborating with local experts can ensure that each country’s cultural and societal characteristics are represented accurately. : Academic scholars, artists, and technology specialists from African countries should verify the accuracy and diversity of content. This approach can later be expanded to an international advisory framework. (2) To the international community -> Develop educational and policy guidelines for media and digital content : International organizations such as UNESCO and UNDP should provide guidelines to ensure that AI and media content respect the modernity and diversity of all regions, including Africa. -> Monitor biased content : Establish international monitoring and reporting systems to address repeated instances of biased African imagery or narratives in AI, educational materials, news, or advertising. (3) To individuals and NGOs, including VANK -> Raise awareness through on/offline campaigns : Share examples of Africa’s modern cities, technology, industries, and cultural achievements on social media, blogs, and YouTube. : Successful example: the campaign “#TheAfricaTheMediaNeverShowsYou,” where Africans themselves shared real images of Africa rarely seen in global media. -> Report biased cases and participate in petitions : Whenever biased AI images, educational materials, or media portrayals are encountered, report them or request corrective action.scene
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Human Rights & Social Justice2025.09.18Remember Steve Biko
Have you heard of a man who ignited the flame of South Africa’s Black liberation movement? Most of the people may immediately think of Nelson Mandela. However, during the years when Mandela was imprisoned and unable to lead the struggle, who kept the fire of resistance alive? It was Bantu Steve Biko, a South African student activist who organized the Black Consciousness Movement in the 1960s and 1970s. While Mandela became the global face of anti-apartheid, Biko rallied Black South Africans to reclaim their dignity and power. Yet his name is scarcely remembered today. Apartheid, enforced in South Africa from 1948 to 1994, was one of the most brutal racial segregation policies in modern history. The white minority government forcibly relocated Black citizens to designated “Bantustans,” reserved urban residential areas exclusively for whites, and banned interracial marriage. Black people were denied the right to vote, excluded from political participation, and could not remain in white residential zones without special permits. They were exploited as low-wage laborers while their movement and basic freedoms were tightly controlled. During the 1960s and 1970s, while Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for his anti-apartheid activities, Stephen Biko emerged as a student leader and founded the Black Consciousness Movement. He urged Black South Africans to recognize that they possessed the power to free themselves, and the slogan “Black is Beautiful” spread across the country. Biko also participated in international gatherings such as the World Student Christian Federation and served as honorary president of the Black People’s Convention, fostering unity and self-awareness among Black communities. His activism provoked harsh repression. Beginning in 1973 he was banned from public speaking and placed under house arrest, and even quoting his words was prohibited. On August 18, 1977, he was arrested and subjected to interrogations that involved brutal beatings. He fell into a coma from the torture and died the following day, September 12, at the age of 32. Mandela later became president and led a policy of reconciliation and democracy, but Biko died young and his name was suppressed for years. In truth, even Mandela’s achievements are not remembered as fully as they deserve, and Biko’s are even more obscured. History is never made by a single hero. South Africa’s freedom was the result of both Mandela’s political leadership and Biko’s awakening of Black consciousness. Just as Korea strives to uncover and honor forgotten independence fighters, the international community must now work to remember Steve Biko. We urge the South African government, international human rights organizations, and UNESCO to ▲designate September 12, the anniversary of Biko’s death, as an international human rights memorial day and to preserve and ▲exhibit his records and writings. ▲Textbooks, museums, and online platforms should present Steve Biko alongside Nelson Mandela. ▲Educational institutions worldwide should include the history of apartheid and Biko’s struggle in human rights curricula to warn against the racism and hatred that still exist today. As we remember Nelson Mandela, we must also remember the efforts and sacrifice of Stephen Bantu Biko.scene
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Human Rights & Social Justice2025.09.17The Bomb Never Ended: Echo
In 2025, the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation, we must once again look back to 1945. That year, a single atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima ended World War II. Nevertheless, for the descendants of the survivors, the war has never truly ended. On August 6, 1945, about 70,000 people died instantly, and by the end of that year the death toll had risen to around 140,000. Eighty years later, the scars of the Hiroshima bombing still spread across the second and third generations of Hibakusha(bombing survivor). In Korea, public calls to expand compensation for victims to include second-generation survivors, especially as attention rises on Hapcheon, often called as “Korea’s Hiroshima.” Hapcheon’s Welfare Center for Atomic Bomb Victims remains eerily quiet, because governments and the international community officially recognize only the first generation as the only victim of the bomb. Which means, only those who suffered direct or indirect exposure at the time of the bombing are currently eligible for compensation. It is true that first-generation survivors suffer from severe illnesses such as skin cancer, angina, kidney failure, and Parkinson’s disease caused by radiation exposure. Yet their suffering does not end with them. Their children are also living with a heavy burden of disease. Many second-generation survivors are born with kidney disorders, cancers, necrosis, or cerebral palsy, or develop serious illnesses unexpectedly in their twenties and thirties. While scientists have not yet established a definitive causal link, national surveys repeatedly show that second-generation survivors are far more vulnerable to disease compare to the general. For instance, in a 2013 survey by Gyeongsangnam-do, 13.9% of 244 second-generation survivors suffered congenital or hereditary conditions, and their disability registration rate was twice the national average. A study from 2005 also revealed that about 4% of 4,080 second-generation survivors died of congenital disease before the age of ten. It also shows the rates of depression, cardiovascular disease, and anemia remain were significantly higher than in the general public. Yet these surveys are years old, and both Korean and Japanese law still limit compensation to the first generation. Without legal recognition, there is no national budget for updated research or medical support. Japan began to support medical subsidies for foreigners from 2002, still continues to deny full coverage for second-generation victims, citing the difficulty of proving direct causation. As a result, second-generation survivors in both Korea and Japan remain neglected by their governments and the international community. There are undeniable victims, but no recognized perpetrators to provide restitution. To break this silence, we cautiously propose the following actions. To solve and ease the issue of 2nd generation victim of the bomb, we strongly urge to 1. Expand Legal Recognition - The governments of Korea and Japan must officially recognize second- and third-generation survivors as victims of the atomic bombing. - Only legal recognition will enable national budgets for medical care, long-term health surveys, and mental-health support. 2. Strengthen International Research and Medical Support - Under the supervision of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Korea, Japan, and international experts should establish a joint research body to collect up-to-date data on the health of second and third generations. - Provide free, continuous medical care, including genetic testing, regular health screenings, and psychological counseling. 3. International Responsibility and Funding - The United Nations and the global community should create an international fund to support the descendants of nuclear victims, including those affected by Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and nuclear testing worldwide. - Countries should be encouraged to join and strengthen the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), ensuring that the suffering of second and third generations becomes a catalyst for global nuclear disarmament. 4. Awareness and Education Campaigns - Individuals and NGOs should record and share the stories of Hibakusha second generations, launching online and offline campaigns, such as #Echoesof1945, to raise public awareness and build solidarity. - Schools and youth programs should teach the history of World War II alongside the present reality of second-generation survivors, fostering discussion on a nuclear-free future. Many first-generation survivors chose never to marry or have children, hoping to end the chain of pain and loss. To ensure that future generations of atomic bomb victims no longer suffer in silence, governments and civil society must act together now.Your awareness, your voice, and your action can help these families live not with fear of the past, but with hope for the future.scene
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Others2025.09.12Airlines, Protect Dokdo’s Name
Do you know that Dokdo is being distorted on a few Airlines? A Korean professor accidentally discovered this on Thai and Singapore airlines' flight, that our Dokdo was labeled as “Liancourt Rocks.” In 1849, a French whaling ship named Liancourt came across Dokdo, and since then, the name “Liancourt Rocks” has been used to assert that Dokdo is French territory. However, Dokdo is historically, geographically, and legally the territory of the Republic of Korea. Korea does not admit any territorial dispute over Dokdo, as it has always been and continues to be an integral part of Korean territory. The issue arises when the term “Liancourt Rocks” is used internationally as a so-called “neutral” term. Even the French government has clarified that “Liancourt Rocks” is merely a historical name and that it acknowledges Korea’s sovereignty over Dokdo. Yet, Japan has used this name to deny Korea’s rightful claim, and some third countries adopt the term in order to avoid involvement in the naming dispute. As a result, the true name “Dokdo” is gradually being erased from international society, undermining the identity and sovereignty of Korean territory. For example, some airlines in Southeast Asia display “Liancourt Rocks” instead of “Dokdo” on their in-flight maps. This is not a simple naming issue. It can weaken the recognition of Korea’s sovereignty in the global community. To ensure that the international community respects the rightful name of Dokdo, we propose the following measures: 1. Use “Dokdo” in international maps and navigation systems - Online maps, airline maps, and shipping charts should adopt the official name “Dokdo.” 2. Encourage international organizations and educational materials to use the correct name - Global institutions such as the UN and UNESCO, as well as internationally distributed textbooks and academic resources, should consistently use “Dokdo.” 3. Establish procedures to correct mislabeling - When third countries use “Liancourt Rocks” or “Takeshima,” the Korean government and civil organizations should be able to formally request corrections. 4. Launch global awareness campaigns - Multilingual campaigns, exhibitions, and cultural exchanges should be expanded so that people around the world can learn the history and significance of Dokdo. Dokdo is not just a name. It is a symbol of Korea’s history, sovereignty, and identity. The use of misleading alternative names is not acceptable, and it is time to correct this once and for all.scene
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Others2025.09.09For Africa, Yet Silent
What do the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank) have in common? As their names suggest, both organizations focus on Africa and work with African nations. However, we have to take a look into one more characteristic. Both organizations are using the *Mercator projection map* in their official websites and reports. Then what is wrong with the Mercator projection? The criticism of this map was first raised by two African NGOs. Their movement has now spread globally, and few international organizations such as the World Bank (WB) have already begun to officially adopt improved map projections in their websites. Mercator projection map was originally created in the 16th century during the Age of Exploration, for navigation. With its accuracy in depicting distances and angles across the seas, it has remained the most widely used world map up until now. However, African NGOs such as *Speak Up Africa* and *Africa No Filter* argue that the Mercator projection distorts our view of the world and has contributed to the marginalization of Africa. While the issue of map distortion has been raised repeatedly, there are only few cases to be changed and accepted within global society. It was because there was no concrete evidence that the map distortion has caused substantial problems to countries. Because of Mercator’s distortion, the African continent has long been depicted as smaller than it really is. Furthermore, this visual diminishment has also influenced to reduced power in international society. In reality, Africa is the world’s second-largest continent, rich in both natural and human resources, and full of potential for development. Yet, beside this reality, Africa has been framed only by poverty, hunger, and disease. International organizations, whether governmental or non-governmental, are founded on the principle of “equality.” Equality is the most important value since there is no central governing authority in our international community. Countries must cooperate and negotiate to maintain our world peaceful. However, can true “equality” exist if international organizations focusing on Africa (such as AfDB and Afreximbank) are still relying on the Mercator projection, a map that perpetuates prejudice and stereotypes against Africa? International organizations with strong connections to Africa must be concerned about Africa’s actualities. Changing map may seem simple, but it represents a vital step for Africa to strengthen its influence in the international community and to stand on equal footing with other nations. With these backgrounds, I urge Africa-related international organizations (especially organizations such as the AfDB and Afreximbank) to take the following actions. - Please modify the “MapAfrica” interactive platform’s map to Equal Earth projection. : it is showing the bank’s investments in AFRICA, however; using the Mercator projection - Please adopt the Equal Earth projection in maps that African nations can easily access : such as performance reports, branch locations, and investment sites. We fully understand that it may be difficult to immediately replace all maps on your websites and platforms. Thus, we kindly ask you to begin by taking initial measures, such as; stating that “The map may contain distortions” or presenting two map projections together. It is time for this movement to go beyond NGOs and spread to international organizations worldwide. As an organization closely connected to Africa, please stand with us to achieve true equality in our global community. ------------------------------- 아프리카 개발은행 AfDB와 아프리카 국제수출 신용기관 Afreximbank의 공통점이 무엇일까요? 두 기관의 이름에서부터 알 수 있듯이 두 기관은 특히 아프리카에 중점을 두고 아프리카 국가들을 대상으로 활동하는 기관입니다. 하지만, 두 기관의 공통점은 여기서 끝이 아닙니다. 두 기관은 모두 공식 웹사이트와 보고서 등에서 ‘메르카토르 도법’ 지도를 사용하고 있습니다. 메르카토르 도법 지도, 대체 뭐가 문제일까요? 아프리카의 두 NGO에서 시작된 메르카토르 지도에 대한 문제 제기는, 이제 전 세계를 대상으로 확산되어 실제로 세계은행 WB 등 몇몇 국제기구는 이미 공식적으로 지도를 개선하기도 하였습니다. 메르카토르 도법은 16세기 대항해시대 항해를 목적으로 만들어진 세계지도로, 대륙 사이의 거리와 각도 등을 실제와 유사하게 표현해 내기에 21세기가 된 지금까지도 우리가 흔히 보는 세계지도는 대부분이 이 기법에 의존합니다. 다만 아프리카의 두 NGO, Speak Up Africa와 Africa No Filter는 우리 세계가 메르카토르 도법에 의해 왜곡되고, 특히 아프리카 국가들이 이로 인한 피해를 보았다고 주장하고 있습니다. 과거부터 우리의 세계지도가 왜곡됐다는 사실은 여러 번 제기되었으나, 지도의 왜곡 문제가 국가에 미친 피해 사례를 입증하고 이를 실질적으로 시정한 사례는 손에 꼽힐 정도입니다. 지도의 왜곡으로 축소되어 그려진 아프리카 대륙은 실제로도 국제사회에서 축소된 영향력을 보유하고 있습니다. 세계에서 두 번째로 큰 대륙, 풍부한 자연 및 인적 자원, 높은 발전 가능성이라는 현실과 달리 빈곤, 가난, 기아, 질병 등 국제사회 속 우려의 시선은 오히려 아프리카를 향한 프레임이 되었습니다. 국제사회를 배경으로 활동하는 정부 간, 비정부 기구들은 모두가 “평등”의 모토 아래 운영됩니다. 국제사회를 총괄하는 정부 기관이 부재하고, 국제사회는 그야말로 국가 간의 협상과 협력으로 유지되는 공간이기 때문입니다. 그러나 그중에서도 아프리카를 주 대상으로 활동하는 국제기구들이 아직도 메르카토르 도법의 지도를 사용하며 아프리카에 대한 편견과 고정관념을 묵인한다면, 국제사회 속 ‘평등’은 정말 실현될 수 있는 걸까요? 아프리카의 민간 단체를 넘어 이제는 아프리카 국가 연합이 “Correct the Map” 캠페인을 지지하고 있는 지금, 이제는 그 노력이 아프리카 민간 수준을 넘어 전 세계와 국제기구로 확대되어야 할 때라고 생각합니다. 아프리카와 관련 있는 국제기구들, 그들이 먼저 변화해야 세계가 바뀔 수 있습니다. 평등한 세계를 위해, 지도를 바꿔주세요.scene
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Others2025.09.04A Smaller Africa on Google Maps?
In the 15th to 17th centuries, people set sail across the seas during the Age of Exploration. However, in the 21st century, we navigate the world through the Internet. When you think of a “map,” which online platform comes to your mind first? For many, it will be Google Maps, the service with the highest global market share. Through Google Maps, we can travel the world within just a few seconds and explore the world in detail. Beyond everyday use, various research institutions, international organizations, and government agencies also rely on Google Maps to publish academic presentations and reports. However, have you ever thought about a little possibility that Google Maps provides the customer a distorted map? The world maps are most commonly based on the “Mercator projection,” created in 1569 by the Dutch cartographer Gerardus Mercator. To represent the spherical Earth in two dimensions, he projected it onto a cylinder, which preserved shapes and angles relatively accurately. At first glance, it may appear perfect, though in reality, the Mercator projection distorts the size of continents. Landmasses in the northern hemisphere, farther from the equator, appear much larger while those near the equator in the southern hemisphere appear much smaller. For instance, Greenland looks similar in size to Africa on the Mercator map, when in fact Africa is about 14 times larger. Some may wonder, “Why should anyone care about the world map?” But this is not just a geographic error. It has deep implications with national identity. Despite being the second largest continent and home to more than a billion people, Africa still struggles to shed images such as “marginal,” “Third World,” or “impoverished.” Its vast culture and resources are diminished in influence and recognition, just as they are visually minimized on the map. As of 2025, Google Maps has around 2 billion monthly active users (MAU) and dominates 89.7% of the global map app market. If Google Maps continues to use the distorted Mercator projection, it will only reinforce and perpetuate a worldview that minimizes the stature of certain regions and nations. Just as Google once showcased technological progress through the introduction of 3D maps, now is the time to adopt the “Equal Earth Projection”, a fairer and more accurate representation for a more equitable world and global society. As a multinational corporation, and as a platform operating on a truly global stage, Google bears a responsibility to provide accurate information and to prevent the reproduction of distortions. We urge Google to take the lead. Stop deceiving the 2 billion users of Google Maps. Let's correct the map. 15-17세기 대항해시대 당시 사람들이 배를 타고 세계를 항해했다면, 21세기 우리는 인터넷을 통해 세계를 항해합니다. ‘지도’하면 가장 먼저 생각나는 온라인 플랫폼이 어디인가요? 전 세계적으로 높은 비율의 시장 점유율을 가지고 있는 구글맵 서비스를 떠올리는 분이 많을 것입니다. 구글맵 서비스를 통해 우리는 한국에서 단 몇 초 만에 미국을 방문할 수 있고, 세계를 속속들이 항해할 수 있습니다. 일상적인 용도 외에도, 다양한 연구 기관, 국제기구, 정부 기관들이 구글맵을 이용하여 학술 발표, 보고서 등을 출간하고 있습니다. 이렇게 우리의 일상과 업무를 지배하고 있는 ‘구글맵’이 사용자들에게 왜곡된 지도를 보여주고 있다고 하면 쉽게 믿을 수 있나요? 현재 우리가 전 세계에서 가장 일반적으로 사용하는 세계 지도는 ‘1569년 네덜란드의 게르하르두스 메르카토르’가 제작한 도법에 기반합니다. 구의 형체인 지도를 2D에서 구현하기 위해 원통에 지구를 투영하여 지도를 그려낸 것으로, 지도 속 대륙의 모양이나 각도가 상대적으로 정확하므로 항해용 지도로 많이 사용되어 왔습니다. 언뜻 보면 완벽해 보이지만 사실 메르카토르 도법 지도는 광점과의 거리 때문에 적도에서 먼 북반구일수록 대륙의 크기가 크고, 적도와 가까운 남반구 대륙은 작게 그려집니다. 즉, 북아메리카와 그린란드 같은 극지방 근처 지역을 확장된 데 반면, 아프리카와 남아메리카는 실제보다 축소되어있다는 것입니다. 실제로 극지방에 위치한 그린란드의 면적은 아프리카의 14분의 1 수준에 불과하지만, 메르카토르 지도에서는 두 대륙이 동일한 크기로 그려져 있습니다. 지도의 오류와 국가 크기의 왜곡이 무엇이 중요하냐고 생각하는 사람도 많을 수 있습니다. 하지만, 이것은 지도 위의 지리학적 오류를 넘어 국가성에도 영향을 미치는 중대한 사항입니다. 실제 대륙의 크기로 따지면 전 세계에서 두 번째로 큰 대륙인 아프리카가 10억 명이 넘는 인구를 가지고 있음에도 불구하고 국제사회에서는 ‘주변국’, ‘제3세계’, ‘빈곤국’과 같은 이미지를 떨쳐내지 못하고 있습니다. 방대한 문화와 자원을 가지고 있는 아프리카의 영향력과 국가성이 지도에서와 같이 축소되어 있는 것입니다. 2025년 기준 전 세계 약 20억 명의 월간 활성 사용자(MAU)를 보유하고 있고, 지도 앱 시장의 89.7%를 점유하고 있는 구글맵에서 메르카토르 도법의 왜곡된 지도를 계속해서 사용한다면, 이는 특정 지역과 국가의 위상을 축소하는 인식이 고착화하고 재생산하는 계기가 될 수 있습니다. 구글맵에서 3D 지도를 도입하며 기술의 발전을 보여준 것처럼, 이제는 평등한 국제사회와 평등한 지도를 위해 ‘이퀄 어스 도법’의 왜곡되지 않은 지도를 도입해야 할 때입니다. 다국적 기업으로서, 전 세계를 배경으로 활약하는 ‘구글’로서, 세계에 보다 올바른 정보를 전달하고 왜곡된 정보의 재생산을 방지하는데 가장 먼저 나서주기를 촉구합니다. 구글맵을 이용하는 20억명을 더이상 속이지 말고, 거짓말을 지워주세요.scene
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Others2025.09.03Equal Earth, Equal Us
For centuries, the world has been looking at a distorted map. The Mercator projection, created in the 16th century for navigation are led by European countries. The biggest problem of the map is that enlarges the size of Northern countries while shrinking Africa and other countries nearby the equator. Because of this distortion, Africa, which is a huge continent that can also contain the United States, China, India, Japan, and most of Europe, has long been perceived as “small” and “marginal" land. However, in reality, Africa is 14 times larger than Greenland, yet maps often depict them as nearly the same size. This is not just a cartographic mistake. It is one of the oldest forms of misinformation, shaping how the world sees Africa and, in turn, how Africa is treated on the global stage. A continent with over 1 billion people, immense cultural richness, and unparalleled resources has been visually diminished for centuries. Also it exceeds the global prejudice on African country, their history, and the culture. Nowadays, African Union, together with organizations such as Africa No Filter and Speak Up Africa, has taken a stand through the “Correct the Map” campaign. They call on the world to replace the outdated Mercator projection with fairer, more accurate maps like the Equal Earth projection that better reflect Africa’s true scale. We stand in solidarity with this call. Correcting the map is about more than geography. It is about justice, dignity, and restoring Africa to its rightful place in global consciousness. Most of the International Organization, even including few organizations that have strong bond with Africa are keep ignoring about the issue. Many of them are still using the Mercator projection, allowing the misconceptions and prejudices about the African continent. For a world of equality and fairness, we must begin by changing how we view the Earth itself. Which means, we have to change our MAP first. We urge international organizations, especially the United Nations or any other kinds of Organization related to Africa to stop using distorted maps and adopt accurate ones. Or, to use both Mercator projection and Equal Earth projection for more accurate information. Let’s end one of the world’s longest-running misconceptions. Let’s Correct the Map for Equal Earth, and Equal Us. 수세기 동안, 세계는 왜곡된 지도를 바라보고 있습니다. 16세기 유럽에서 항해를 위해 만들어진 메르카토르 도법 지도는 적도에서 멀리 떨어진 나라들은 실제보다 크게, 아프리카와 적도 인근의 나라들은 실제보다 작게 그려왔습니다. 이 왜곡으로 인해, 미국·중국·인도·일본·유럽 대부분을 모두 담을 수 있을 만큼 광대한 아프리카 대륙이 오랫동안 "작고 주변적인 지역"으로 인식되어 왔습니다. 아프리카는 실제 사이즈는 그린란드의 14배이지만, 오랜 시간 동안 지도 속에서는 비슷한 크기로 묘사되는 왜곡 문제를 낳았습니다. 이것은 단순한 지도상의 오류가 아닙니다. 이것은 세계가 아프리카를 바라보는 고정관념과 편견을 낳는 계기 중 하나이며, 실질적으로 국제사회에서 아프리카가 받는 대우에도 영향을 미쳐왔습니다. 10억 명이 넘는 인구와 방대한 문화, 그리고 독보적인 자원을 가진 아프리카는 수 세기 동안 시각적으로 축소되어 왔고, 아프리카의 국가들은 '최빈국', '인권이 가장 위협받는 국가'와 같은 프레임 속에 있습니다. 이에 최근 아프리카 연합(African Union)은 Africa No Filter, Speak Up Africa와 같은 단체들과 함께 “Correct the Map(지도를 바로잡자)” 캠페인을 시작했습니다. 이들은 부가적인 편견과 왜곡을 막기 위해, 우리가 아프리카의 실제 크기를 더 정확히 반영하는 Equal Earth 지도를 사용하기를 촉구하고 있습니다. 지도를 바로잡는 일은 단순히 지리학의 문제가 아닙니다. 그것은 정의와 존엄, 그리고 아프리카를 세계의 의식 속에서 정당한 위치로 되돌리는 일입니다. 그러나 대부분의 국제기구들은, 심지어 아프리카와 긴밀한 관계를 맺고 있는 일부 기구들조차 여전히 메르카토르 도법을 사용하며 아프리카에 대한 오해와 편견을 방관하고 있습니다. 동등한 세계와 공정한 미래를 위해, 우리는 지구를 바라보는 방식을 바꾸는 것에서 시작해야 합니다. 우리는 국제기구, 특히 유엔과 아프리카 관련 기구들이 왜곡된 지도의 사용을 중단하고, 보다 정확한 지도를 채택할 것을 촉구합니다. 혹은, 메르카토르 도법과 Equal Earth 지도를 함께 사용함으로써 더 정확한 정보를 제공하고자 하는 노력을 보여야 합니다. 세계에서 가장 오래된 왜곡을 이제는 끝내야 할 때가 되었습니다. 동등한 지구와 동등한 국가 관계를 위해, 가장 먼저 '지도'를 바꿔야 합니다.scene
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