The Democratic Party's Special Committee on Pension Reform stated on August 12 that "protection for basic recipients and fairness for new enrollees must be considered during the reform process."
Nam In-soon, chair of the Special Committee, made the remarks during a full committee meeting at the National Assembly, noting, "Recently, President Lee Jae-myung mentioned a method of gradual adjustment for new entrants while ensuring that existing recipients do not see a reduction in their benefits regarding the basic pension reform."
She added, "The basic pension is a crucial system that supplements the retirement income of elderly individuals who have short National Pension contribution periods or low incomes, making it essential to establish adequate safeguards to prevent sudden reductions or exclusions for existing recipients during the reform process."
Nam emphasized, "There should not be significant differences in benefit eligibility or amounts for elderly individuals with the same income level simply due to a few months' difference in their birth dates."
Additionally, she stated, "The impact of the basic pension on living allowances and its relationship with the National Pension must also be reviewed as part of a multi-layered income security system for the elderly. Systems like the basic pension, which have direct and widespread effects on people's lives, should be pursued after thorough discussion and social consensus."
As chair, she promised to continue the discussions among committee members to develop a reliable income security plan for the elderly that encompasses various generations and social classes.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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