At today’s State Council meeting, 19 government ministries jointly presented the ‘2026 Public Welfare Policy Changes.’ President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the importance of informing the public, personally reading through each policy and engaging in detailed discussions with cabinet members. These new policies cover a wide range of areas that directly impact citizens’ daily lives. Key focuses include tax relief for defaulters, emergency support for crime victims, and the strengthening of tenant rights.
A notable measure is the National Tax Service’s policy to exempt livelihood-based tax defaulters from payment obligations up to 50 million KRW. President Lee instructed the expansion of the tax arrears management team, highlighting that collecting overdue taxes would not only ensure tax justice but also create jobs. It is estimated that addressing accumulated tax arrears could generate employment for approximately 10,000 to 20,000 people. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety was also tasked with reviewing local tax arrears management and securing related jobs.
Regarding the Ministry of Justice’s new emergency living support for crime victims, President Lee stressed the need to adjust the support amount to reflect current realities. He stated that, given South Korea’s economic and cultural status, the nation should take greater responsibility for supporting victims. The introduction of a tenant’s right to request a breakdown of management fees was also welcomed, with the President urging further legal review to prevent unfair charges and ensure tenant protections.
The Ministry of the Interior and Safety’s ‘One-Stop Application for Complex Civil Complaints’ aims to improve public convenience. The President called for expanding the scope beyond restaurants and beauty salons and accelerating the process for broader public benefit. He also criticized the slow legislative process on regulatory reforms in the National Assembly, urging faster action on public welfare laws. The implementation and legislative progress of these policies are expected to significantly enhance citizens’ quality of life.
This comprehensive policy package demonstrates a dual focus on protecting vulnerable groups and enhancing administrative efficiency. Linking tax relief with job creation, modernizing victim support, and expanding tenant rights signal a shift toward a more inclusive welfare state. The push for one-stop civil services and regulatory reform is likely to drive digital innovation in governance and restore public trust in government processes.