Jangseong County is gaining attention for promoting the 'Jangseong-type Welfare Model.' Photo by Jangseong County, Jeonnam
Jangseong County in Jeonnam is drawing attention for its 'Jangseong-type Welfare Model,' which is being promoted as a core initiative of the 8th popularly elected administration, aiming to realize universal welfare.
According to Jangseong County on October 1, the county is the first in Jeonnam to provide scholarships for university students. It offers reimbursement of university tuition fees up to 2 million won per semester, for a total of eight semesters. Eligible recipients are university students under the age of 30 whose guardians have been registered residents of Jangseong County for more than three years.
The county has also introduced the 'Youth Allowance (Dream Nurturing Voucher),' which is available to all Jangseong youth. Those aged 9 to 13 receive voucher points worth 70,000 won, while those aged 14 to 18 receive points worth 100,000 won. These points can be used at bookstores, stationery shops, optical stores, and arts or physical education academies.
Entrance congratulatory gifts are also provided to new students at elementary, middle, and high schools. Elementary school freshmen receive Jangseong Love Gift Certificates worth 100,000 won, middle school students receive 200,000 won, and high school students receive 300,000 won. This encourages a fresh start and helps ease the financial burden on families.
The expansion of 'senior welfare' initiatives is also drawing attention. Since the launch of the 8th administration, Jangseong County has increased the annual amount of the existing 'Filial Piety Voucher' from 180,000 won to 300,000 won. Additionally, a 'Health Voucher' has been introduced, allowing a portion of the voucher to be used for purchasing food ingredients. The 'Filial Piety Voucher' is a unique welfare policy of Jangseong that can be used like cash for hairdressing, beauty services, and public bathhouses.
The county has also increased the activity hours for the 'Senior Job Program' from 30 hours to 39 hours to support economic activities for the elderly. The 'Senior Taxi Voucher Program' provides taxi fare voucher points worth 144,000 won annually to seniors aged 80 and above.
Support for senior community centers, which serve as leisure spaces, is also notable. During the severe heatwave last summer, Jangseong County replaced air conditioning units in a total of 62 locations. In addition to the 347 registered senior centers, 26 unregistered centers also receive subsidies for operating expenses, food supplies, and grains. The county is also implementing a project to install raised tables in all senior centers.
Governor Kim Hanjong stated, "By completing a meticulous and comprehensive 'Jangseong-type Welfare Model,' we will create a hopeful city where youth can pursue their dreams and a vibrant, happy Jangseong for our seniors."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
