President Yoon Suk Yeol announced on October 2 that the government will enhance basic pension support for low-income seniors and expand senior job opportunities to a record 1.18 million positions. He also pledged to include home care costs under health insurance coverage.
Speaking at the 30th Senior Citizens' Day ceremony held at a hotel in central Seoul, President Yoon stated, "To ensure economic stability, which is fundamental for a happy retirement, we will provide more robust support for low-income seniors' basic pensions," adding, "We will also expand senior job opportunities to an unprecedented 1.18 million positions."
The president outlined plans to increase medical and caregiving support. He said, "We will push for health insurance coverage for home care costs to prevent seniors from hesitating to seek treatment due to expenses." He emphasized the need to move away from a reliance on nursing homes and hospitals, ensuring that seniors receive adequate care services in their communities.
After requesting applause from attendees, President Yoon remarked, "Many things will change starting next year," encouraging them to look forward to noticeable improvements.
He expressed a commitment to creating a society that respects the experiences and wisdom of seniors, promising, "Our government will pay close attention to ensure that you can enjoy a healthy and happy retirement, as if you were our own family."
President Yoon also expressed gratitude to the older generation for their contributions to industrialization and democratization. He said, "You are the ones who shed blood and sweat to create the Miracle on the Han River from the ashes of war," adding, "You have changed the course of history at the forefront of industrialization and democratization."
He emphasized that the tears and sweat of seniors have contributed to South Korea becoming a top 10 global economic power and a cultural powerhouse that resonates with the world, stating, "We will never forget that great legacy."
The president urged for mutual understanding and respect between generations, saying, "The older generation must understand the challenges faced by the youth, and the youth must honor and respect the elderly. We must create a mature society, and our government will do its best to achieve that."
On this day, President Yoon, along with First Lady Kim Keon Hee, presented a traditional cane and congratulatory cards to attendees celebrating their 100th birthdays. The cane, made from a type of plant, symbolizes longevity and good health.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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