Broadcast Journalists Club Debate
Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun is speaking at a Broadcasting Reporters Club debate held at the Korea Artists Center in Mok-dong, Seoul, on the 28th. January 28, 2021. [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy Reporter Son Seon-hee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun reiterated on the 28th that the loss compensation system for self-employed and small business owners affected by the COVID-19 quarantine measures is a "system unrelated to retroactive application." He also said regarding the timing of its introduction, "It is difficult to set a fixed date for introduction because it is important to design the system well."
On the morning of the same day, at a Broadcasting Reporters Club discussion held at the Korea Artists Center in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul, Prime Minister Chung said, "We must not rush when legislating or creating the system." Regarding the proposal of raising value-added tax as a funding measure, he expressed caution, saying, "It is difficult unless there is a national consensus when adjusting tax rates or creating new tax items."
However, Prime Minister Chung emphasized his intention to legislate again, stating, "This is not a benevolent support but compensation that must be given," and "Once systematized, responsible compensation can be provided to the self-employed who suffered damages."
Regarding social distancing related to COVID-19, he said, "There was a discussion about lowering the level, but due to recent cluster infections, it was decided to review it again," adding, "Until now, COVID-19 infections had been steadily stabilizing, but the situation has become uncertain again."
The government originally planned to announce the adjustment plan for the 'social distancing' levels and quarantine measures to be applied from next month on the 29th, but postponed it to the weekend considering recent changes in the situation.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
