[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] On the 6th, Jeju Governor Won Hee-ryong criticized Gyeonggi Governor Lee Jae-myung, who labeled South Korea as a welfare underdeveloped country and advocated for a basic income policy, saying, "How is he different from a parasite that feeds on the frustration of youth and common people?"
On the same day, Governor Won wrote on Facebook, "Our companies' advanced technologies such as semiconductors and batteries are leading the world, and the world is captivated by the charm of Hallyu with BTS and Minari," adding, "But Governor Lee says South Korea is a welfare underdeveloped country," targeting him with these remarks.
He said, "The problem is the lack of jobs and the absence of a future for the youth," and added, "Since the Moon Jae-in administration took office, national debt has increased astronomically, and even now, whenever there is an excuse, they are busy distributing money to the people."
He continued, "I ask the ruling party and Governor Lee whether they realize that the money being distributed now is ultimately another frustration that the younger generation will have to repay in the future, and that what the youth want is not 'basic' income but 'opportunities' to achieve their dreams."
Governor Won raised his voice, saying, "Now is the time not for inflammatory populism and ignorant wordplay, nor for shallow opportunism and pandering to popularity, but to discover the greatness within us, create new growth engines, generate more jobs, and provide opportunities for the youth to realize their dreams."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
