Namhae County, the First Basic Income Pilot Site in South Gyeongsang
October Sees Population Surge... Largest Increase Since 2007
The population moving into Namhae County, South Gyeongsang Province, which was selected as a pilot site for the government's basic income program for rural and fishing communities, has surged at an unprecedented rate. The sudden increase in new residents in an area that had been experiencing a steady population decline is interpreted as an immediate response to expectations for the basic income policy. While this change is significant as it comes amid the risk of regional extinction, there are also concerns that side effects such as fraudulent address registrations must be managed.
Increase of 350 in Just One Month... Largest Net Inflow in 18 Years
According to Namhae County on November 13, the number of people who moved into the county in October was 629, an increase of 357 people (131%) compared to the previous month (272). This is the largest increase since 2007. Considering that the population had been decreasing by 20 to 130 people every month from January to August this year, this represents a complete reversal of the previous trend. After the population of Namhae County fell below 40,000 at the end of last year, the county has now recorded two consecutive months of population growth in September and October, signaling a clear turnaround.
The new residents mainly came from nearby areas such as Busan and South Gyeongsang Province, rather than Seoul or the greater metropolitan area. According to an analysis of population statistics for those who moved in during October, the largest number-130 people-came from Busan. This was followed by 68 from Jinju, 56 from Sacheon, and 40 from Changwon, confirming that more than half of the new arrivals came from neighboring cities. This increase in population is analyzed as a policy effect of the introduction of the basic income program for rural and fishing communities, under which each person will receive a 150,000 won local gift certificate per month starting next year.
Temporary Side Effects and Fraudulent Address Registrations Remain Issues... 'Settlement Rate' Will Determine Success
However, it remains uncertain whether the sudden influx of people will translate into long-term residency. There are concerns that a temporary 'balloon effect' or fraudulent address registrations aimed at receiving the basic income cannot be ruled out. The county also considers the settlement rate to be the key variable that will determine the success or failure of future population policies.
In response, Namhae County plans to not only prevent fraudulent claims during the two-year pilot project, but also to implement policies that strengthen settlement conditions, including housing, healthcare, and education. The county believes that basic income alone is unlikely to sustain population inflow, and that a real foundation for daily life must be established for population growth to lead to structural change.
A county official stated, "The recent increase in population is the result of expectations for the introduction of basic income for rural and fishing communities, which has led to the inflow of actual residents from neighboring cities," adding, "We will spare no effort in supporting policies to help new residents successfully settle in the area."
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