[Asia Economy Reporters Wondara and Heo Midam] Lee Nak-yeon, Chairman of the Democratic Party of Korea's COVID-19 National Crisis Overcoming Committee, regarding the emergency livelihood support payment for the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), said, "There is a movement for households that are not struggling financially to return or donate the support funds," adding, "Such discussions will become more active after the announcement of the measures."
At the joint meeting of the National Crisis Overcoming Committee and the Election Countermeasures Committee held at the National Assembly on the morning of the 30th, Chairman Lee said, "Shortly, the third emergency economic meeting presided over by the President will decide on the payment of emergency livelihood support funds in response to the disaster for the first time in history," and reiterated, "There is also a movement for households that are not struggling financially to return or donate the support funds. Once the measures are announced, such discussions and movements will become more active."
He also explained, "The emergency economic meeting will decide on measures to reduce social insurance premiums and electricity bills for low-income groups and small business owners."
Chairman Lee emphasized, "We are deciding and executing an additional budget of 32 trillion won for emergency support for small business owners, self-employed, and low-income groups, and 100 trillion won in emergency funds for corporate rescue, and we will continue to release additional measures such as emergency livelihood support funds," adding, "The national crisis caused by COVID-19 is significant, and the government's response is unfolding rapidly."
He continued, "Many citizens went outside over the past weekend to meet close people and enjoy spring. There is a risk that vigilance in quarantine could be relaxed," but stressed, "However, it is not yet the time for that. All citizens, including overseas entrants, must strictly adhere to quarantine rules."
Regarding the April 15 general election, he said, "We will continue to focus on overcoming the national crisis and alleviating the suffering of the people as we approach the election." He also expressed condolences, saying, "This week is the April 3 memorial period, and I extend my sympathies to the people of Jeju Island who still bear and endure the wounds of unfortunate history," emphasizing, "We will strive to face history directly and set it right."
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