Hong Nam-ki "Considering Policy Support for Healthcare, Care Workers, Delivery Drivers, and Janitors" (Update)

17th Emergency Economic Central Countermeasures Headquarters Meeting on the 28th

[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Sehee] Hong Nam-ki, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, said on the 28th, "The government is reviewing measures focused on protecting essential workers from the risks of COVID-19 and industrial accidents, improving working conditions, strengthening social safety nets, and providing tailored policy support by occupation so that essential workers can work with pride and dignity."

On the same day, Hong held the 4th Korean New Deal Ministerial Meeting and the 17th Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters meeting at the Government Seoul Office, stating, "We want to advance a society where essential workers can receive fair treatment and consideration even a little sooner."

Following President Moon Jae-in's order to prepare additional measures for workers in certain industries exposed to poor working conditions and infection risks due to the COVID-19 crisis, the government is accelerating related discussions.

Hong presented 40 sectors and 197 items as examples based on the innovation growth joint standards related to the policy-type New Deal fund investment targets. Additionally, by presenting standards for New Deal infrastructure, the scope of investment for the New Deal infrastructure fund will also be clarified.

Hong said, "To enhance understanding and interest among private businesses and investors, investment briefings will be held by New Deal sectors," adding, "We will also focus on actively resolving on-site difficulties arising during the promotion of New Deal projects."

He further explained, "Preparatory work such as revising related laws including tax laws and announcing sub-fund management companies will be completed within this year so that policy-type New Deal funds can be raised early next year."

The government announced that the '2020 Korea Sale Festa' will be held over two weeks from November 1 to 15.

He emphasized, "After close consultation with quarantine authorities and local governments, we plan to establish a thorough quarantine system and promote a safe event centered on online and non-face-to-face methods." He added, "Through regional promotional events, we will also contribute to the recovery of local small businesses and regional economies."