The article titled "The Price of Qualification" chronicles the poignant experiences of Rashid, a 74-year-old Pakistani man who has lived in South Korea for 30 years. As he exercises in a recreation center that stands in stark contrast to the surrounding developments of a major urban redevelopment project, he feels a sense of alienation. The author reflects on the philosophical implications of urban development, portraying it as a force that erases the lives of the marginalized in the pursuit of progress, where those like Rashid find themselves continually excluded from the advancements surrounding them even after decades of trying to forge a life in Korea.

Rashid, who came to South Korea fleeing life-threatening circumstances in his home country, grapples with his reality in a society that remains distant and unwelcoming. Despite building a supportive relationship with his lawyer, who has assisted him through numerous challenges over the past 17 years, Rashid expresses deep-seated fears and insecurities about his future. His story highlights the difficulties faced by immigrants as they navigate complex legal and social landscapes, often feeling like mere specters in a society that promotes growth and development while ignoring the plight of those who do not