In 2025, the Korean government is implementing a series of policies to enhance citizens’ welfare and safety. Starting February 1, individuals can open one ‘livelihood account’ at commercial, regional, or cooperative banks, allowing up to KRW 2.5 million per month to be protected from seizure. The Personal Information Protection Commission has completed the second phase of the ‘OnMyData’ platform, enabling citizens to view, manage, and delete their scattered personal data in one place. The Korea Forest Service and Ministry of the Interior and Safety have advanced the wildfire prevention period to January 20 and activated the Central Accident Management Headquarters to strengthen wildfire response.
The Ministry of Justice revised the Civil Execution Act, raising the seizure-free limit for livelihood accounts from KRW 1.85 million to KRW 2.5 million. The minimum seizure-free amount for wage claims and insurance payouts has also increased. The Legal Support Platform (www.helplaw24.go.kr), launched on January 21, offers AI-powered, customized legal services from 35 organizations. The Child Support Agency began recovering KRW 7.73 billion in advance child support payments from January 19, targeting cases from July to December 2023.
The Ministry of Environment will expand loan interest support for greenhouse gas reduction projects to KRW 3 trillion in 2025 and simplify procedures for SMEs. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries is conducting special safety inspections on 136 coastal passenger ships nationwide by January 30, in cooperation with the Coast Guard and other agencies, to ensure safe travel during the Lunar New Year holiday. The Ministry of Employment and Labor has opened wage arrears employer data via API to job portals, allowing job seekers to check companies’ wage payment histories.
The National Investigation Headquarters of the National Police Agency has introduced a continuous monitoring system for complaints and accusations, with 79 experts overseeing case handling nationwide. The Korea Meteorological Administration is providing cold wave impact forecasts three times daily to seniors via AI speakers, including video alerts. These measures are expected to strengthen legal and economic safety nets, support vulnerable groups, and drive meaningful change in disaster response, environmental protection, and digital governance.
These policy updates reflect Korea’s commitment to social inclusion, digital transformation, and proactive disaster management. Livelihood accounts and integrated data platforms enhance accessibility to financial, legal, and information services, especially for vulnerable populations. The early activation of wildfire and cold wave response systems, combined with AI technology, sets a new standard for climate resilience. Expanded green finance and transparent labor market data further support ESG practices and fair employment, positioning Korea as a leader in citizen-centered governance.