Linked with Government’s Comprehensive Plan,
Expanded Supply and Public Utility Rate Freeze
30% Onnuri Gift Certificate Rebate,
Discounted Sales of Agricultural and Livestock Products
Busan City has announced a comprehensive plan to stabilize the cost of living for residents ahead of the Chuseok holiday.
On September 25, the city stated that it will secure a significantly increased supply of agricultural, livestock, and marine products in coordination with the central government's efforts to expand the supply of essential Chuseok goods, and will freeze public utility rates as part of support measures that citizens can directly feel.
The government will supply 172,000 tons of essential holiday goods and provide 90 billion won in discount support, offering gift sets such as apples, pears, and Korean beef at up to 50% off. Six food ingredients, including frozen strawberries, will be subject to quota tariffs to ease cost burdens.
Busan City has secured supplies of four major agricultural and livestock products at 1.9 times the usual amount, Chinese cabbage, radish, pork, and chicken at 1.1 times, and six marine products-pollack, mackerel, squid, hairtail, yellow croaker, and anchovy-at double the normal quantity. From October 4 to 7, tolls on seven expressway routes will be waived, and city gas retail supply charges will also be frozen.
Discount events will be held in traditional markets and around district offices. From October 1 to 5, customers can receive up to a 30% Onnuri gift certificate rebate when purchasing agricultural, livestock, or marine products at 46 traditional markets. In addition, direct sales markets will be set up at City Hall, Busanjin District Office, Haeundae District, and Yeonje District, where holiday gift sets and seasonal produce will be sold at discounted prices.
The cashback rate for the local currency, Dongbaekjeon, will be raised from 7% to 13%. The city also plans to further stabilize prices in personal service sectors such as dining and lodging by securing additional budget to support tax service fees, and by identifying cafes and bakeries as “Good Price Stores” to enhance the city’s competitiveness as a tourist destination.
In July, the city established a dedicated task force for agricultural product supply stability to address external factors such as climate change and rising production costs. On September 26, a Chuseok holiday price stabilization meeting will be held with related organizations, including the Bank of Korea’s Busan branch, the Fair Trade Commission, large supermarkets, and traditional markets, to discuss measures for price stability.
Lee Joonseung, Deputy Mayor for Administrative Affairs, emphasized, “We will closely monitor the price trends of essential holiday goods and thoroughly maintain the supply response system so that citizens can enjoy a warm Chuseok.”
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