President Lee Calls for Accelerated Implementation of Rural Basic Income

President Lee Jae-myung urged for a swift implementation and expansion of the rural basic income program on November 3.
 
During a Cabinet meeting at the Blue House, President Lee shared insights from his recent visit to Yeongyang and Cheongsong, areas participating in the pilot program. He noted, "Both regions have seen their populations increase by over 5% since the program's launch, significantly boosting local vitality."
 
He further highlighted that local residents reported increased consumption and sales for small businesses following the distribution of basic income, indicating an improvement in the local economy. "This shows that residents are feeling the positive effects of the rural basic income firsthand," he said.
 
However, President Lee acknowledged that while the number of eligible areas is set to double next year, the overall scale remains small compared to all rural regions, raising concerns about the sustainability of the policy.
 
He emphasized, "Rural basic income cannot solve all rural issues, but it is a significant starting point. We must accelerate its successful implementation and expansion to break the cycle of regional decline and inject new vitality across the country."