A Breakthrough for Low Birth Rates and Easing Parenting Burdens
Benefits Expanded to More Families
Buyeo County in South Chungcheong Province has significantly relaxed the criteria for water bill discounts for households with multiple children, aiming to reduce living expenses for residents.
Previously, only households with three or more children under the age of 18 were eligible for this benefit, but the policy has now been expanded to include families with two or more children, allowing many more local households to experience tangible benefits.
According to the county on September 5, following an ordinance revision in August, households with two or more children will now have 10 tons deducted from their monthly water usage.
The county explained, "This is a practical measure to ease the burden of child-rearing in an era of low birth rates," adding, "Based on average monthly usage, a significant savings effect is expected."
Existing discounts for socially disadvantaged groups will remain unchanged. Recipients of basic living and medical benefits, as well as individuals with severe disabilities, will each have 5 tons deducted per month, while national veterans will have 10 tons deducted per month. However, if bills are overdue for more than two months, the discount will be suspended.
The county also provided information on digital service user benefits. Those who sign up for the smart text notification service can receive an additional 500 won discount each month, and those who register for automatic payment can receive a further 1% discount on their bill (up to 3,000 won).
An official from the county water and sewage office stated, "We have improved the system to provide practical benefits not only to families with multiple children but also to socially disadvantaged groups and digital service users," adding, "We will continue to seek ways to reduce the living expenses of our residents."
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