Mobile Supermarkets to Be Introduced in Rural Areas of Chungnam Province

Chungnam Provincial Council Passes Ordinance to Support Essential Living Services in Rural and Fishing Villages
Lee Yeonhee: "Contributing to Improved Living Conditions and Quality of Life"

Representative Lee Yeonhoe, who proposed the ordinance for essential living services support in rural and fishing villages of Chungnam Province. / Photo by Chungnam Provincial Council

A mobile supermarket is expected to be introduced in rural areas of Chungnam Province, where the infrastructure for essential living services is lacking.

On the morning of April 22, the Chungnam Provincial Council announced that it had reviewed and approved the "Ordinance for Essential Living Services Support in Rural and Fishing Villages of Chungnam Province" during the 4th plenary session of its 358th extraordinary meeting, in order to address gaps in essential living services in rural areas.

The ordinance, proposed by Representative Lee Yeonhee (People Power Party, Seosan 3), was established to alleviate the inconvenience experienced by residents of rural areas who, due to population decline and other factors, do not have access to even the most basic retail outlets such as supermarkets, convenience stores, or pharmacies.

In particular, the passage of this ordinance is significant in that it provides a legal basis for the operation and support of "mobile supermarkets."

The ordinance specifically stipulates support for essential living services, including: the operation and support of mobile sales facilities; research and surveys; education and public relations; and the training of professional personnel.

Representative Lee stated, "Due to the worsening population decline and rapid aging, it has become difficult for rural residents to purchase even a block of tofu or a carton of eggs near their villages," adding, "I hope this ordinance will help improve living conditions and the quality of life for rural residents."

She further emphasized, "This is a meaningful first step in actively responding to the crisis of rural extinction and promoting the sustainable development of agriculture and rural communities. Going forward, I will pay even greater attention to improving essential living services in rural areas, not only in terms of purchasing daily necessities but also in connection with welfare and care services."