The rubber duck project was first started 7 years ago in France with purpose of delivering message of peace and happiness. Dutch artist, Florentijn Hofman, tried to entertain the world by a tour named “spreading joy around the world”. Until now, it has been displayed in 14 different cities all over the world and is presented in Seoul, the capital city of South Korea.

Rubber Duck Project Seoul

The Lotte group of Korea asked for the giant rubber duck to celebrate their opening of the largest shopping mall in country. There were a number of political and social issues with regard to its construction, partially due to its safety issues, and by presenting the giant symbolic figure, the corporation has successfully attracted more people. I thought intention of delivering peaceful message to the public was great, but only at the beginning. Many companies and corporations started abusing it as a marketing tool.

Rubber Duck Drinking Local Hard Liquor, Soju – Lotte Liquor, World’s Second Leading Producer of Soju.

Rubber Duck Made Of Steamed Bun – Samlip General Foods Co., Large Manufacture of Instant Food

Rubber Duck Wearing A Outdoor Jacket – Kolon Sports., Large Manufacture of Outdoor Products

There are pictures of rubber duck drinking a Starbuck’s coffee, redbull, and even ones putting makeups on. Many of them certainly went viral through online communities and entertained people in many different forms.

In my opinion, many business have taken advantage of its presence by commercializing the symbolic figure for their profit. For example, the picture of rubber duck drinking hard liquor feels rather immoral and fades away from its original message. What are your thoughts?