Statistics Korea to Conduct 2020 Economic Census from the 14th...Including Businesses Without Physical Locations for the First Time

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] The Statistics Korea will conduct the "2020 Economic Census" targeting businesses nationwide from the 14th to July 30th. Notably, starting from this survey, businesses operating without a separate workplace will be included in the statistics for the first time to enhance accuracy.

The non-face-to-face internet survey will be conducted from the 14th to July 9th. Businesses wishing to participate in the internet survey can receive a participation number from surveyors, city/county/district statistics situation rooms, or the 080 call center, and access the Economic Census website at any time to participate.

Participation in the internet survey is possible not only via personal computers (PCs) but also through mobile devices such as smartphones. Businesses that participate in the internet survey will be entered into a drawing to receive prizes (mobile gift certificates worth 10,000 won). The face-to-face survey, where surveyors visit businesses directly, will be conducted from June 16th to July 30th.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19 during face-to-face surveys, surveyors will comply with quarantine rules such as wearing masks to ensure the survey is conducted safely.

The Economic Census is conducted every five years targeting businesses nationwide to understand the overall economic activities of South Korea. Since its first implementation in 2011, this year marks the third time the survey is conducted.

This Economic Census improved the accuracy of economic statistics by utilizing the Business Register (SBR) established by Statistics Korea since 2017, including for the first time businesses without physical locations such as e-commerce businesses operating without separate workplaces.

Unlike previous full censuses, a sample survey method was introduced only for small businesses, reducing the response burden significantly by conducting on-site surveys for only 3.3 million out of 6.67 million target businesses. Additionally, the survey investigates whether businesses engage in digital platform transactions, the adoption of unmanned payment devices (KIOSK), and delivery sales to capture trends in the digital economy.

Ryu Geun-gwan, Commissioner of Statistics Korea, emphasized, "Statistics are records of life written in numbers and another form of history." He added, "If the Economic Census is successfully conducted, the completeness of the Business Register and K-Statistics will improve, and a virtuous cycle effect that enhances the effectiveness of economic policies can be expected."