The South Korean government has decided to pay all citizens of the country 150 thousand won (110 USD) within the framework of a program to support domestic demand, South Korean television channel KBS reported.
The so-called "consumer certificates" will be available from July 21 to September 12. The coupons are valid until November 30. All citizens who resided in the Republic of Korea as of June 18 are eligible for the payments.
The amount of the payments varies depending on the recipient's social status. Low-income citizens and single-parent families will receive 300 thousand won (220 USD) per person. Those receiving government social benefits under a special program will receive 400 thousand won (293 USD). Residents of the regions will receive an additional 30 thousand won (22 USD), and residents of 84 municipalities with special status will receive an additional 50 thousand won (36 USD).
As the TV channel notes, payments can be provided through credit and debit cards of applicants, in the form of debit cards with a fixed amount or gift certificates. However, the funds can only be spent in the region of residence.
According to Yonhap News Agency, foreigners are not eligible for the payments, except for those with permanent residence permits, spouses of South Korean citizens and refugees.
A second round of payments is also planned from September 22 to October 31 in the amount of 100 thousand won, which will be available to 90% of citizens, with the exception of the 10% with the highest incomes.
