"Utilizing Special Measures Such as Relief Facilities and Private Contracts"
As the country faces significant damage from nationwide torrential rains, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety has announced that it will support local governments in mobilizing all available resources for disaster recovery and assistance to displaced residents.
On July 21, the ministry instructed local governments to actively utilize emergency funds and disaster management funds for recovery efforts, including the provision of relief supplies and temporary housing facilities. It also requested that local governments make full use of special measures such as private contracts and exemptions from contract reviews for the rental of equipment needed for emergency repairs and the installation of temporary relief facilities. These measures are intended to ensure that relief activities are not delayed by contract procedures.
The ministry also informed local governments that public assets such as community centers and school gymnasiums, which are being used as temporary shelters for affected residents, may be temporarily provided free of charge. In addition, rent reductions and lease extensions may be granted to tenants of public assets that have been damaged.
Furthermore, acquisition and registration license taxes will be exempted for vehicles that have been destroyed or damaged by the heavy rains if the asset is reacquired. For residents in areas declared as special disaster zones, additional local tax reductions may be provided. The deadline for local tax payments by affected residents may also be extended by up to one year.
The ministry encouraged residents in areas affected by the torrential rains to apply for and receive the livelihood recovery consumption coupons, which will be distributed starting today, through online applications to ensure safe distribution. It also requested that "visiting services" be operated at temporary housing facilities.
In addition, in cooperation with Saemaeul Geumgo, the ministry plans to provide financial support to affected households and small business owners, including loan maturity extensions (up to one year), deferment of principal and interest payments (up to six months), and emergency loans. The ministry also plans to work with the three major national civic organizations to carry out recovery efforts in affected areas and provide relief activities for displaced residents.
Kim Minjae, Vice Minister of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, stated, "We will make every effort to provide substantial support in cooperation with local governments so that recovery from the damage caused by this torrential rain can proceed quickly and residents can return to their daily lives as soon as possible."
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