Lee Gaeho Proposes "Basic Income Act for Rural and Fishing Villages" as Lead Sponsor

Government to Provide Over 2.4 Million Won Annually in Local Currency
"Aiming for Sustainable Development of Rural and Fishing Villages Threatened in Their Livelihoods"

Lee Gaeho, member of the Democratic Party of Korea.

Lee Gaeho, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea (representing Damyang, Hampyeong, Yeonggwang, and Jangseong in South Jeolla Province), announced on July 17 that he has proposed the "Act on the Support for Basic Income in Rural and Fishing Villages" as the lead sponsor, aiming to promote the sustainable development of rural and fishing communities and to help them overcome current crises.

In modern society, agriculture and fisheries have become key pillars of the national economy, going beyond simply producing food. However, the competitiveness of domestic agriculture and fisheries has been gradually weakening due to rapid changes in the global market and increasing pressure to open up the sector.

In particular, population decline and economic stagnation in rural and fishing communities have emerged as serious social issues. The outflow of younger generations and the collapse of local infrastructure are threatening the very existence of these communities, making it urgent to establish fundamental countermeasures.

The bill proposed by Lee requires the government to establish a comprehensive plan for basic income in rural and fishing villages every five years, and to provide at least 2.4 million won per year in local currency to residents. The aim is to promote economic stability for rural residents and to revitalize local economies.

Lee stated, "An innovative approach is necessary to overcome the fundamental crisis facing rural and fishing communities," and added, "I hope this bill will breathe new life into these areas."

Meanwhile, Lee plans to continue communicating with farmers and fishers in each region to ensure the bill's passage. As part of these efforts, he will hold a meeting with the Jeonnam Alliance for Basic Income in Rural and Fishing Villages in Hampyeong on July 24 to share details of the bill and discuss future strategies for its implementation.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.