Shinan-gun's Rural Basic Income Initiative: Community Impact and Feedback
Hello from Shinan-gun!
On July 5th, at the Anjwa Smart Farm Solar City,
a field meeting was held for the 'Shinan-gun Rural Basic Income Pilot Project'
with the participation of Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Song Mi-ryeong.
This meeting aimed to explore the changes that rural basic income is bringing to the daily lives of residents and the local economy,
and to address any inconveniences arising during the operation of the project.
During the meeting, we shared positive changes observed since the implementation of the rural basic income.
Out of a total disbursement of 35.4 billion won, 31.3 billion won has been spent,
resulting in a usage rate of 88% as of the end of June 2026.
Furthermore, the number of participating stores where basic income can be used increased from 1,151 to 1,292,
indicating a boost in local commerce.
It was confirmed that basic income is promoting a virtuous cycle of consumption among residents,
positively affecting small business owners and self-employed individuals.
Shinan-gun also conveyed the challenges faced by residents of some small islands in utilizing basic income.
Residents proposed practical improvements, such as relaxing restrictions on usage areas and expanding the limits on heating oil expenses for remote islands.
Minister Song Mi-ryeong expressed her intention to positively consider the usage area issues, taking into account the uniqueness of island regions.
After the meeting, residents shared their experiences at the Purple Island Happy Cafe, a place where basic income is accepted.
They noted that the implementation of basic income has created a neighborhood gathering atmosphere.
A new resident shared that basic income is becoming a foundation for their new life.
Shinan-gun Mayor Kim Tae-sung emphasized that the meeting reaffirmed the positive impact of rural basic income on revitalizing the local economy.
He also pledged to continue advocating for national funding and to manage misuse thoroughly to ensure balanced and sustainable progress of the basic income project.
Shinan-gun will continue to create policies that enable residents to experience tangible changes,
working towards a more livable island and a vibrant community.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/1004_shinan/224338925104
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