Rural Development Administration, 154 Executives Donate Salaries to Support Vulnerable Groups

Raised 180 Million Won in Donations Over 4 Months

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] Korea Rural Community Corporation delivered a donation of 180 million won, collected by 154 executives and department heads who returned part of their salaries, to 25 local governments in difficulty for vulnerable groups in rural and fishing villages.

To help vulnerable groups struggling due to COVID-19, from May to August, over four months, executives and department heads voluntarily deducted 5-30% from their salaries to raise funds. The donations will be delivered through regional headquarters and branches to local governments facing difficulties such as flood damage and COVID-19, and will be used to support vulnerable groups and revitalize the depressed local economy.

Of this amount, 21.9 million won was used to purchase rice produced in the Naju area at traditional markets and donated to Yeongdeungpo District Office so that it can be used for vulnerable groups in urban areas.

In April this year, the corporation donated funds collected from general employees to regions struggling with COVID-19, and has continued sharing activities such as delivering lunchboxes and sharing kimchi in rural areas to support vulnerable groups facing difficulties.

Additionally, the corporation reduced rent by 30% for six months for 223 small business owners and SMEs leasing corporation-owned real estate, expanded advance payment rates for SMEs, and extended contracts without imposing liquidated damages, continuously pursuing multifaceted efforts to revitalize the local economy.

President Kim Insik said, “Amid the prolonged COVID-19 and consecutive typhoons, which have made these times more difficult than ever, I hope this sharing by our executives and employees will be delivered as hope to the people,” and added, “The corporation will continue various efforts for sharing with vulnerable groups in rural and fishing villages and for revitalizing the local economy.”