South Korea Tests Basic Income in Rural Yeongju Amid Funding Debates

Can monthly payments transform struggling rural communities? South Korea’s bold experiment puts fairness and finances under the microscope.

, and Administrator

2025 November 19 . 9:25 AM

1 min read

This image contains few trees and plants, grassland are on the pavement. Behind it there are few... — This image contains few trees and plants, grassland are on the pavement. Behind it there are few houses. Behind it there are few trees and sky.

South Korea Tests Basic Income in Rural Yeongju Amid Funding Debates

A government trial offering basic income to rural residents has sparked debate over fairness and funding. The scheme, part of wider efforts to revitalise rural areas, was discussed by officials in recent weeks. Meanwhile, separate initiatives aim to repurpose empty homes in declining urban areas.

On Oct. 20, the Rural Policy Bureau under the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs chose participants for a pilot basic income project. The trial focuses on Yeongju, a county in South Korea, where selected residents will receive payments to support local economies.

The basic income trial in Yeongju will proceed despite financial and fairness questions. Officials continue to explore ways to revitalise rural areas, including housing schemes. The outcomes of these efforts will determine whether similar projects expand elsewhere.