정은경 장관 “기초연금 개편안 8월말이나 9월초 발표 예정”

Minister of Health and Welfare Jung Eun-kyeong announced on August 19 that the basic pension reform proposal will be released in late August or early September. During the National Assembly Health and Welfare Committee's general meeting on the same day, Jung joined with other Democratic Party lawmaker Seo Young-seok in addressing their questions about basic pension and reform.

"Various scenarios are being discussed within the government regarding the basic pension reform," Jung stated, adding that the proposal will be announced in late August or early September. The reform necessitates amending the basic pension law, with the government seeking input from the legislature and legal review, she added. The Ministry of Welfare reported that it aims to implement the basic pension in a "hangho-sambak" structure, which boosts income for low-income elderly households, starting from next year.

Since its implementation in 2014, basic pension has been paid to seniors aged 65 and older, with income below the bottom 70% of the population. While the joint household allowance varies depending on the household's circumstances, the monthly payment for a single recipient is 34,699,000 KRW, based on income below the bottom 70% threshold.

Earlier this month, Jung revealed during the welfare department's work report at the Blue House that the government is considering two approaches to reform: moving away from a fixed selection standard and instead basing it on median household income, or using the median household income as a reference point. The median household income is used as a benchmark for various social welfare entitlements, ranging from around 80 programs, to determine the eligibility of individuals for social welfare benefits.

Jung affirmed that the existing 70% income threshold will remain the principle, but design the "hangho-sambak" structure within that range. The basic pension reform also includes reviewing other related policies, such as the spousal allowance system and addressing unpaid senior benefits.