Starting in 2026, Korea’s disability pension will rise to a maximum of KRW 439,700 per month, with the basic benefit increasing by KRW 7,190 to KRW 349,700. The government is also launching the ‘First Step Job Guarantee Centers’ to systematically support unemployed youth and expanding the number of universities operating Job Plus Centers. Additionally, measures to prevent no-show damages in the restaurant industry have been strengthened, including higher penalty standards and enhanced legal support.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare set the 2026 disability pension eligibility threshold at KRW 1.4 million for single households and KRW 2.24 million for couples, up by KRW 20,000 and KRW 32,000 respectively. Severely disabled individuals will receive the increased pension from January 20, and new applications can be made at local community centers or online at bokjiro.go.kr. A survey of 214 restaurants found that 65% experienced no-show damages in the past three years, with an average loss of KRW 443,000 per incident. The government will invest KRW 576.2 billion to supply 7,820 hydrogen vehicles and accelerate charging infrastructure.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) outbreaks in Chungju and Iksan have prompted emergency quarantine measures, including strict farm access controls and comprehensive inspections. The National Fire Agency is conducting intensive fire safety management for elderly living alone during winter, with volunteer firefighters visiting vulnerable households. A new intergovernmental task force will ensure rapid vaccine introduction during infectious disease outbreaks, streamlining supply and approval processes.
To prevent industrial accidents, the government will support up to 90% of the cost for safety items in small workplaces through the Clean Workplace Support Project. Small business owners with declining sales will have their VAT payment deadlines extended by two months. Export-import companies can now easily apply for deadline extensions and installment payments via the UNI-PASS electronic customs system. These comprehensive policies aim to foster inclusive growth, protect vulnerable groups, and advance future industries.
AI Insight: These policies reflect a strategic focus on supporting vulnerable populations and nurturing future industries like hydrogen vehicles. The adoption of digital administration and data-driven policy design enhances efficiency and accessibility. From an AI perspective, continuous monitoring and tailored support can improve policy effectiveness and public satisfaction, paving the way for more sophisticated, data-driven welfare and industrial policies in Korea.