Seo Samsuk Welcomes Expansion of Consumption Coupon Use in Rural Areas

MOIS Expands Hanaro Mart Coupon Program Nationwide
Number of Eligible Stores Increases from 121 to 779, a Sixfold Jump
"Resolving Consumer Inconvenience and Boosting Local Economies"

Seosamsuk, member of the Democratic Party of Korea.

Seo Samsuk, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea representing Yeongam, Muan, and Shinan in South Jeolla Province, stated on August 22 that he welcomes the Ministry of the Interior and Safety's decision to fully expand the use of the "Livelihood Recovery Consumption Coupon" to all NongHyup Hanaro Mart locations. He described it as a timely decision that reflects the voices from the field.

Previously, last month, Assemblyman Seo pointed out in a press release that although the consumption coupon was introduced to boost domestic demand and support economic recovery, rural residents were being left out due to a lack of available locations to use the coupon. At that time, only 121 out of a total of 2,208 Hanaro Mart stores (5%) accepted the coupon, forcing some island residents to endure a four-hour ferry ride just to purchase daily necessities. He made these facts public and urged improvements to the system.

With the Ministry's recent decision to expand eligible locations, the number of NongHyup Hanaro Mart stores nationwide where the consumption coupon can be used has increased to 779. This will make it much more convenient for rural residents to purchase daily necessities. Additionally, consumption is expected to increase in islands and towns-areas that had previously been excluded from the coupon policy.

Assemblyman Seo commented, "It is very meaningful that the issues I have raised have been reflected in government policy," and added, "I hope this improvement will not only make life more convenient for rural residents but also help promote the consumption of agricultural and livestock products and contribute to the recovery of local economies."

He continued, "This measure is just the first step, but there is still a need to ensure effectiveness and address operational issues in the field. I will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure that everyone can benefit equally, without discrimination."

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