SEOUL – The South Korean government is set to raise the cap on meal expenses for public officials, journalists, and private school teachers from 30,000 won to 50,000 won per person, in a move aimed at reflecting current economic realities and boosting domestic consumption.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the decision to increase the limit under the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act, also known as the Kim Young-ran law, comes after pressure from small business and restaurant owners. President Yoon Suk Yeol and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo have both advocated for this adjustment to better suit the current economic conditions. The revised regulation, which does not require parliamentary approval, is expected to be pre-announced as early as Tuesday. While the ceiling for meals is being adjusted, discussions will continue regarding the proposal to double the limit on the value of agricultural and livestock product gifts, which currently stands at 150,000 won.
The Kim Young-ran law, named after the former commission chief who championed it, was enacted in 2016 with the aim of eliminating corruption and enhancing transparency in public service.