The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs announced four major strategies and eight key initiatives, including expanding compensation for independence activists’ descendants, enhancing medical support for elderly veterans, and improving recognition for democratic activists. These were presented during a presidential briefing chaired by President Lee Jae-myung.
Compensation will now extend to at least two generations of independence activists’ families, moving beyond the previous single-generation limit. Legislation for democratic activists, known as the ‘Democratic Activists Act,’ is also being pursued. Additionally, financial support will be provided to spouses of elderly veterans, and medical institutions will be expanded to improve access to care.
By 2030, the number of contracted medical institutions will double from 1,005 to 2,000, and quasi-veterans hospitals will be designated in regions without dedicated facilities. Welfare safety nets will also be strengthened through AI-based monitoring systems for isolated elderly veterans and expanded long-term care services.
Efforts will also focus on recovering remains of independence activists, preserving overseas historical sites, and strengthening the recovery of pro-Japanese assets. Cultural initiatives, international veterans diplomacy, and the introduction of AI in veterans’ benefit reviews are also part of the future roadmap, including a bid to host the 2029 Invictus Games in Daejeon.