Energy Voucher Applications Open from the 31st... Approximately 200,000 KRW Annually per Household

Summer Season Support Fee 43,000 Won
Continued Assistance for Cold and Heat Sensitive Groups

On the 16th, electricity and gas prices increased, and the government will begin accepting applications for the Energy Voucher program from the end of this month to alleviate the energy cost burden on vulnerable groups. The average annual support amount per household this year is 195,000 KRW.

On the 25th, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced that from October 31 to December 29, 2023, applications for the Energy Voucher program will be accepted at administrative welfare centers in all towns, townships, and neighborhoods nationwide, as well as through the online website.

The Energy Voucher program supports essential energy costs for vulnerable groups. It deducts usage amounts from electricity, city gas, and district heating bills or allows payment of energy costs using a National Happiness Card. This month, electricity rates increased by 8 KRW per kWh, and city gas rates rose by 1.04 KRW per MJ. Due to the expected summer heatwave, the eligibility for issuance has been expanded, and the summer support amount has also been increased.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy decided to continue supporting households sensitive to cold and heat (estimated 278,000 households) among those receiving residential and educational benefits, who were temporarily included in the support last year. The average annual support amount per household is 195,000 KRW, with 43,000 KRW for summer and 152,000 KRW for winter. For summer support, the amount was raised from 9,000 KRW to 40,000 KRW last year and increased further to 43,000 KRW this year. Up to 45,000 KRW of the winter voucher amount can be used in advance during the summer, and any remaining summer support balance will automatically roll over to winter without a separate application.

Additionally, the Ministry, together with the Ministry of Health and Welfare, improved the Energy Voucher application process so that applicants for the Basic Livelihood Security benefits can apply for the Energy Voucher on the same day they apply for the benefits. Previously, applicants could only apply for the Energy Voucher after their eligibility for Basic Livelihood Security benefits was determined (which takes 1-2 months after application), but starting from the 31st, applications can be made on the same day.

For more detailed information, please contact the administrative welfare centers in all towns, townships, and neighborhoods nationwide, the Energy Voucher call center, or visit the Energy Voucher website.

Energy Voucher Support Amount.