[사설] 820조 성장 중심 슈퍼 예산, ‘양극화 완화’ 더 보강해야

The government has set the 2023 budget at 820.9 trillion won, a 12.8% increase from the previous year, marking the largest increase and growth rate ever. The rise in revenue is attributed to a surge in income from artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and other high-growth sectors. The government aims to allocate these increased revenues to future growth drivers, such as the semiconductor industry, AI development, and addressing regional and generational disparities.

However, the government acknowledges that there is relatively little room to address the widening wealth gap created by the AI and real estate boom. The committee will need to strengthen measures to mitigate this imbalance. The 2027 budget emphasizes growth acceleration and reducing inequality. Despite the significant increase in total expenditure, the government's financial health indicators have improved.

The deficit in government spending relative to GDP has narrowed from -3.9% to -0.1%, and the national debt ratio has decreased from 50.6% to 48.3%. The government plans to set aside 162 trillion won in a dedicated fund for future challenges. This includes investments in semiconductor projects, AI, and support for young people. The allocation includes 84 trillion won for semiconductor and AI projects, 43 trillion won for young people, and 33 trillion won for local-led growth.

While the government is confident in the potential of these sectors, there are concerns about the distribution of resources. Industries like finance and energy have seen a 29.7% increase in budget, while healthcare, welfare, and employment have only seen a 9.3% increase. The government is considering this imbalance when allocating funds.

Additionally, the rapid growth of AI and semiconductors may lead to job displacement and rising housing costs, particularly affecting young people. The government aims to provide a comprehensive package of measures to address these issues for the youth, including job creation, housing, and asset formation. However, the support should extend to other vulnerable groups, such as middle-aged workers facing layoffs and unemployed households.

The government has also proposed revisiting the tax break for non-residential property owners from 9 billion won to 12 billion won, acknowledging potential criticism over fairness. Balancing tax policy with the need to prevent soaring property prices is a delicate task.