The application rate for the first day of the livelihood recovery consumer coupons was 13.8%, exceeding 6.97 million

According to data released by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety on the 22nd, on the first day of the first round of applications for the livelihood recovery consumer coupons, which took place on the 21st, 6,975,642 individuals, corresponding to 13.8% of the total eligible population, completed their applications.

This figure represents a 40% increase compared to approximately 5 million applicants on the first day of the previous national subsidy, reflecting the high interest and expectations of the public.

The current consumer coupon program provides a basic payment of 150,000 won per person, which will be issued the day after the application. The total payout for applications made on the 21st amounts to 1.27 trillion won. This marks the official start of the government’s large-scale support measures aimed at boosting consumption and revitalizing the local economy.

Status of applications by payment method and regional participation

Looking at the applications by payment method, the most common was via credit/debit cards, with 5,345,478 applicants.

A total of 996,452 applied for local love gift certificates in mobile/card form, while 108,930 opted for paper coupons. The number of prepaid card applicants stood at 524,782.

Regarding regional application status, Sejong City had the highest application rate at 14.81% (57,316 individuals) compared to the total eligible population.

In contrast, Jeonnam recorded a relatively low application rate of 12.39% (219,767 individuals).

In Seoul, 1,079,455 individuals (13.65%) completed their applications.

The livelihood coupons have restrictions on usage areas; residents of special cities and metropolitan cities can use them only within their respective cities, while residents of provincial areas can use them only in their respective districts or counties. This measure aims to promote local consumption and stimulate the local economy.

Application methods and schedule

The government is accepting applications for the first round of the livelihood recovery consumer coupons from 9 a.m. on the 21st until 6 p.m. on September 12, for approximately 8 weeks, both online and offline. Especially in the first week of applications from the 21st to the 25th, a day-of-the-week system based on the last digit of one's birth year is being applied. On the 22nd (Tuesday), individuals whose birth year ends in 2 or 7 can apply.

Online applications can be made through various channels, including the local love gift certificate application, credit/debit card company websites/apps, call centers, and ARS.

For those who find it difficult to use digital devices, offline applications are also accepted at the designated 주민센터 (community service centers) or partner banks of credit/debit card companies based on the applicant's address.

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety analyzed that the number of applicants on the first day exceeded expectations, estimating that "the public has great expectations." It is hoped that this consumer coupon will provide practical help to those suffering from the economic downturn and rising prices following COVID-19.

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