Briefing on the Misuse of Consumption Support Coupons: President's Office Issues Strong Warning (July 22, 2025)
📌 Summary of the Presidential Briefing
On July 22, 2025, Presidential Spokesperson Kang Yu-jung addressed the improper use of the newly distributed consumption support coupons. According to the briefing, several instances were detected where recipients attempted to resell or convert prepaid cards through secondhand trading platforms on the very first day of the coupon issuance.
The spokesperson emphasized that such misuse violates the intended purpose of the coupons and may lead to the return of all or part of the subsidy, in accordance with the Act on the Management of Subsidies. Additional penalties such as fines or disqualification from future subsidies may also apply.
🔍 Legal Framework and Government Response
The Presidential Office cited the Specialized Credit Finance Business Act, which stipulates that any affiliated merchant receiving coupons without delivering goods may face up to three years of imprisonment or a fine of up to 20 million KRW. Such violations could also result in the cancellation of the merchant’s registration.
In response, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and other relevant agencies have requested major online platforms to implement restrictions on specific search terms, delete related posts, and display clear warnings against the resale of the coupons. Local governments have also been instructed to enhance monitoring and conduct on-site inspections of participating merchants.
📣 Public Appeal from the Government
Spokesperson Kang urged citizens to use the coupons as intended—for boosting local consumption and revitalizing the economy—rather than attempting to convert them into cash. She stated, “We ask for the active cooperation of the public in using the consumption support coupons appropriately to help restore livelihoods and strengthen local economies.”
The message underscores not only administrative enforcement but also the need for civic participation in achieving the original goals of this subsidy program. It highlights the government’s determination to ensure that public funds are used transparently and responsibly, in alignment with national recovery efforts.
📎 Related Information
This post is based on the official briefing published by the Office of the President of the Republic of Korea.
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