경기도민 '재난기본소득 기부' 행렬 동참
To help residents of South Korea's Gyeonggi-do Province get through the coronavirus crisis, the local government has given cash relief to each resident.
But many residents have chosen to donate their cash relief in order to help those in need.
Our Jang Tae-hyun reports.
After receiving the relief funds from the local government in Gyeonggi-do Province, some people have decided to donate this cash back to the local government.
"The economy is in crisis, and I heard that many small business owners and people my age have lost their jobs. I want the money to be used for them."
Starting from early April, Gyeonggi-do Province gave out around 80 U.S. dollars to each resident.
Low-income families can get cash while others can choose between points on their credit card and local currency that can be spent within the community.
But out of the money given to people, almost 265-thousand dollars was donated back to Gyeonggi-do Province and around 250-thousand dollars was donated to Suwon City.
"When we receive donations, we let people choose where they want the money to be spent. From small business owners and unemployed young people to low-income families."
Many are glad they can help others through their donations.
"Everyone is going through a hard time, but I want to help small business owners and socially disadvantaged families."
"Actually, I wanted to have a nice meal with the family. But, as I learned at this community service center that I can donate, I decided to do so."
During tough times in the past like the Asian financial crisis, South Koreans stocked up on gold to give to the government. Now, over 20 years later, people are willing to donate their COVID-19 cash relief. The belief is that, by coming together, South Korea can overcome this tough situation.
Jang Tae-hyun, Arirang News, Suwon
