「おやすみから5秒で…」 山田凜虎の「睡眠力」に織田翔希も驚いた

The controversial draft of the basic pension reform plan, known as the "하후상박" approach, was announced by the Minister of Health and Welfare on July 27th, only to be canceled an hour later. This unexpected move has raised concerns among government and private sectors about the impending changes in basic pension eligibility criteria. The draft aims to shift the selection criteria from age to income, targeting low-income elderly individuals for increased support.

Under the proposed changes, elderly individuals with incomes below 90% of the "standard median income" (the middle value of national household income) will receive basic pension benefits. The amount will gradually decrease from 2028, reaching 80% of the standard median income in 2030. Currently, basic pension eligibility is based on the income below 70% of the standard median income, which could result in a significant reduction in the number of beneficiaries.

However, those with income challenges will benefit more from the new system. Currently, basic pension is given to those in the lowest 70% of income earners, with the same fixed amount of 350,000 won per month, regardless of income level. The new plan aims to provide additional support to low-income elderly individuals. Those in the bottom 20% of income would receive 380,000 won per month in 2024 and 400,000 won in 2028.

Elderly individuals with incomes above 40% of the standard median income will have their basic pension frozen at 350,000 won per month. The minimum and maximum income gaps for basic pension will be narrowed from 200,000 won to 100,000 won within five years, according to the plan. The government has assured that existing pension recipients will not face a reduction in their payments, but annual reductions will be implemented for those who lose eligibility under the new criteria.

For example, existing pensioners will continue to receive 350,000 won per month initially, dropping to 315,000 won in the second year, 280,000 won in the third year, 245,000 won in the fourth year, and 210,000 won in the fifth year.