The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on the 15th that it will begin accepting applications for the 'Consumer Recovery Coupons' on July 21.
The first round of applications will be open to all citizens regardless of income level from July 21 to September 12. A second round of applications, which will support the bottom 90% of income earners, will take place separately starting September 22.
Eligible recipients are citizens residing in Seoul. Foreigners are generally excluded, but permanent residents and marriage immigrants may be recognized under limited circumstances.
Adults born before December 31, 2006, must apply themselves. Minors can be applied for by the head of the household at the same address. Proxy applications can only be made by legal representatives, household members, spouses, and direct descendants for prepaid cards.
The support amount is 150,000 won per person for all citizens. The low-income class and single-parent families can receive 300,000 won per person, and those on basic living support can receive 400,000 won per person. For the bottom 90% income earners, an additional 100,000 won will be provided through the second support program, bringing the total to a maximum of 500,000 won.
Those eligible for the first round of consumer coupons can choose to receive them via credit/check cards, prepaid cards, or local love gift certificates. Applications can be made online or offline according to the preferred payment method from 9 a.m. on the 21st until 6 p.m. on September 12.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government will also provide a 'home visit application' service for elderly and disabled individuals with mobility difficulties. Starting on the 28th, they can request help by phone from their district office. However, exceptions will apply if there are other household members present.
The consumer coupons issued this time can be used at small business stores in Seoul with annual sales of less than 3 billion won. Use is restricted at large supermarkets, department stores, and entertainment venues. The expiration date for use is November 30, and any unused coupons will automatically expire after this period.
Kwak Jong-bin, the head of the Seoul City's Administrative Bureau, noted, 'We will do our best to cooperate closely with local governments and related agencies to ensure that no inconveniences occur for citizens throughout the entire process, from application to use.'