During Listening Tour in Jinan, North Jeolla, Rural Basic Income Discussed
"If 200,000 Won Is Provided Per Person, Local Businesses Will Thrive"
Emphasizes Renewable Energy, Citing Solar Power Case in Sinan County
As part of his Listening Tour, Lee Jaemyung, the presidential candidate of the Democratic Party, visited Jinan in North Jeolla Province and emphasized the importance of balanced development. He expressed confidence that overall economic conditions would improve after the presidential election.
During his meeting with local residents in Jinan, Lee placed 'people's livelihoods' at the forefront. He said, "Our economy has been continuously shrinking, but starting in June, we will hit the bottom and return to normal. Do not worry."
In particular, regarding the basic income for rural areas, which is of great interest to local residents, he stressed the need for additional special support for struggling regions as a method for balanced development.
Lee stated, "In our country, those with more power, such as people in Seoul and the metropolitan area, receive more support, which deepens inequality," adding, "This must change. Politics should ensure balance by providing special compensation and special support to regions that have made special sacrifices or are facing special difficulties."
He also argued that providing basic income would not be a significant financial burden. Lee said, "Even in Jinan County, the budget per person exceeds 20 million won. If we provide 200,000 won per person with help from the provincial and central governments, local businesses will thrive."
He further emphasized the need to promote renewable energy as a source of funding for rural basic income. He introduced, "Sinan County is the only place where the population is increasing, and that is because the county governor has granted permits for solar power generation and is sharing the income."
Lee stressed, "Due to the lack of renewable energy, export companies are relocating their production bases overseas because of RE100, and semiconductor factories cannot be built due to power shortages. However, there is an abundance of sunlight and wind in this area (Jinan), which can be converted to renewable energy."
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