'Livelihood Recovery Consumption Coupon'... Why Are Citizens Applying at Welfare Departments?

Not a Welfare Program, but a Nationwide Initiative

It has been found that citizens eligible for the 'Livelihood Recovery Consumption Coupon,' an ambitious initiative launched by the Lee Jaemyung administration, are experiencing confusion due to a lack of clear information regarding the application procedure.

Although the first application period has been set from July 21 to September 12, only the payment amounts for each income group?general citizens, the near-poor and single-parent families, and basic livelihood security recipients?have been announced, without further details.

According to officials, as the payment period approaches, there has been a surge in phone inquiries and visits to welfare-related departments at administrative agencies. Although applications are supposed to be submitted at the civil service office, many people are instead visiting welfare departments.

This is largely because publicity has focused only on broad aspects. The government's promotional efforts have emphasized where the coupons can be used, the requirement to use them by the end of November this year, the fact that the amount is determined by income level, and information for welfare recipients. However, these are the only points being highlighted.

With the responsible department for applications still unclear, confusion among eligible citizens has led to a flood of inquiries to welfare departments. An official from a welfare department stated, "Administrative agencies are unable to carry out their original duties and are only providing guidance due to this issue." The lack of clear guidelines regarding the application department and related procedures is causing administrative paralysis and widespread confusion.

The official added, "The Livelihood Recovery Consumption Coupon is not a program limited to welfare recipients, but a nationwide initiative by the Lee Jaemyung administration. Since it should not be interpreted solely from a welfare perspective, applications must be submitted through the civil service office."