Gochang-gun Issues Convenient 'Card-Type Local Currency'

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Jae-gil] Gochang-gun, Jeonbuk announced on the 18th that it will launch and operate the card-type Gochang Love Gift Certificate called ‘Nop-eul Gochang Card,’ which complements the shortcomings of the paper-type Gochang Love Gift Certificate, starting from the 27th.

The ‘Nop-eul Gochang Card’ can be purchased and recharged through all financial institutions in the area except the post office, as well as via the smartphone app ‘Hometown Love Pay.’

In particular, it can be used anywhere in Gochang-gun’s stores and businesses equipped with card terminals, and since no separate merchant registration or exchange is required, the use of the ‘Nop-eul Gochang Card’ is expected to increase.

Support for small business owners and consumer benefits are also abundant. Card fees are supported for local small business owners (with sales under 300 million KRW), and consumers receive purchase discounts (5%) and income deductions (30%), which is expected to help revitalize the local commercial district and increase household income for residents.

Yoo Ki-sang, the governor of Gochang-gun, said, “I hope that by purchasing Gochang products first with the ‘Nop-eul Gochang Card’ and using Gochang’s traditional markets, stores, and businesses first, a foundation for a ‘mutually supportive economy where we live and prosper together’ will be established.”

Meanwhile, Gochang-gun paid the farmer’s allowance introduced for the first time in Jeonbuk through the ‘Gochang Love Gift Certificate’ issued in July last year, and achieved substantial income increases for market merchants and small business owners by conducting a 10% special discount sale at the end of the year.

In particular, this year, to revitalize the local economy by promoting the distribution of the Gochang Love Gift Certificate, plans are underway to gradually introduce card and mobile gift certificates.