429 Social Enterprises Certified by Government This Year... Record High Despite COVID-19 Impact

Employment Status of Certified Social Enterprises (Source: Ministry of Employment and Labor)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bo-kyung] A total of 429 institutions were certified as social enterprises throughout this year. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic situation, the highest number of enterprises were certified this year.

The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced the "6th Social Enterprise Certification Results of 2020" on the 31st. On this day, 82 institutions were newly certified as social enterprises, bringing the total number certified this year to 429.

As a result, a total of 2,777 social enterprises are currently operating, employing 54,659 workers. Among social enterprise workers, approximately 33,123, or 60.6%, belong to vulnerable groups. Social enterprises, known as "good companies," prioritize public interest goals such as maintaining employment for vulnerable groups.

According to the Ministry of Employment and Labor, despite the prolonged COVID-19 situation, the largest number of social enterprises entered this year. The certification status by year shows 216 in 2010, 295 in 2015, 312 in 2018, and 429 in 2020.

Through the 6th certification review, newly certified social enterprises are creating social value needed in our society across various industries such as environment, culture and arts, tourism, and urban regeneration.

The Maeulgajip Cooperative located in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, improves vacant and old houses to provide social housing at reasonable prices for long-term residence. Through community activities, it enhances the quality of youth housing and contributes to urban regeneration by improving vacant and old housing.

Valis in Michuhol-gu, Incheon, upcycles invasive species bass to manufacture pet food. Purchasing about 200 tons of bass annually, it addresses ecological destruction caused by bass and the decline in fishermen's income. A portion of the profits is donated to abandoned animal protection projects.

Songhyun M&T, located in Pohang, Gyeongbuk, aims to revitalize the local economy and realize a sustainable tourism ecosystem. By operating SNS channels, it promotes and shares tourism information about Pohang, contributing to tourism activation.

Kwon Ki-seop, Director of Employment Policy at the Ministry of Employment and Labor, stated, "We will listen to voices from the field and strive to be a reliable partner for social enterprises through more communication."