Jae Hong Kang of Hwasun County Council: "Small Business Owners Face Survival Threat... Urgent Need for Tailored Support"

Proposal for Emergency Financial Support, Tax Relief, and Transportation Welfare During "Five-Minute Free Speech"

Jae Hong Kang, a member of the Hwasun County Council in Jeonnam, called for the implementation of urgent support measures for local small business owners during a "five-minute free speech" session on June 10.

Kang stated, "The local economy has reached its limit due to the combined effects of high inflation, high interest rates, and an economic downturn," adding, "In 2023, 124 businesses filed for closure, followed by 142 in 2024, and 46 more just in the first half of this year."

Jae Hong Kang, Former Member of the Hwasun County Council, Jeonnam.

He continued, "Just as disaster relief funds were provided during the COVID-19 period, it is necessary to provide emergency financial support to each resident," emphasizing, "Since all council members agreed to the ordinance for livelihood stabilization support funds proposed by former Chairperson Seongdong Ha, I urge the executive branch to make a prompt decision."

He also added that "tax and financial support for small merchants, such as reductions in property tax for stores, water and sewage fees, card transaction fees, and interest rate difference support, should be considered."

Additionally, he proposed policies to revitalize the local commercial district by expanding transportation welfare, such as exempting bus fares for seniors. Kang said, "Many local governments, including Cheongsong, Wando, and Yeongam, have already implemented such measures, and Hwasun should consider benchmarking these cases," adding, "For a happy Hwasun and a vibrant local economy, the executive branch, the council, and all residents must work together and pool their wisdom."