Choi Sang-mok "Agree with the Purpose of Livelihood Recovery Support Fund... Not Effective in Methodology"

In the government questioning session on economic issues, a difference in perception between the government/ruling party and the opposition was confirmed regarding the government's economic outlook. Opposition lawmakers argued that livelihood support funds should be promoted to respond to the domestic economy, but the government expressed opposition.

At the government questioning session held at the National Assembly on the 11th, Lee Eon-ju, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, pointed out the economic situation and asked, "What are you doing for domestic demand?" In response, Choi Sang-mok, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, listed measures such as the distribution of Onnuri gift certificates, promotion of economic-related legislation, and measures for the construction industry.

In response, Rep. Lee said, "It doesn't matter if you selectively give local currency to all citizens or do anything else, as long as it is effective. If it is not effective, can't we just verify it?" Deputy Prime Minister Choi explained, "Traditional markets and others are also struggling on the domestic demand side, and Onnuri gift certificates have been targeted." Regarding the local currency advocated by the opposition, he pointed out, "There may be effects regionally, but when looking at the entire country, there is skepticism about the effectiveness."

Deputy Prime Minister Choi further stated during his response to Rep. Lee Jong-bae of the People Power Party's government questioning, "I agree with the purpose of the livelihood recovery support fund," but added, "It is not effective in terms of methodology." He explained, "There is a need for cash to preserve livelihoods for low-income groups, debt adjustment for small business owners who are struggling with debt, and support such as scholarships and rent assistance for students. The government has reflected various forms of income support supplementary budgets through this year's budget and others."

Deputy Prime Minister Choi continued, "I am not opposing the support for the livelihood stabilization fund, but I am speaking about its effectiveness," and explained, "Rather than giving it uniformly, we are providing livelihood assistance, scholarships, and job support."