A group of seniors takes part in a dance class in Seoul. (Yonhap)
GOYANG, May 23 (Korea Bizwire) — A municipal government is planning to introduce a longevity congratulations payment for senior residents who reach the milestone of their 100th birthday, starting this month.
The Goyang city government in Gyeonggi Province said Monday it will provide a one-time congratulations payment of 1 million won (US$763) to the bank accounts of senior residents who have recently turned 100 and have resided in the city for over a year.
As of the end of March, the city had a total of 151 senior citizens over the age of 100, the highest number among municipal governments nationwide.
In January 2013, the city government enacted an ordinance to support the welfare of its senior citizens, becoming the first among the nation’s municipal governments to do so.
Since then, it has implemented various support programs.
The city government offers several benefits to senior citizens over 100, including a monthly living stipend of 50,000 won, birthday cakes, and longevity canes.
In the event of a senior citizen’s passing, the city government provides a funeral expense subsidy of 1 million won to the bereaved family.
To increase the number of centenarian citizens, the city government is implementing several initiatives, such as creating job opportunities for seniors, revitalizing senior community centers, and operating comprehensive senior welfare centers.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
