▲ Vice Minister of Health and Welfare Hyun Soo-yup
The government has launched a study on introducing a basic income system as part of a safety net for young people.
Hyun Soo-yup, the First Vice Minister of Health and Welfare, made the remarks during a radio interview when asked about plans to guarantee income for the youth.
"Rapid structural changes in society driven by artificial intelligence (AI) have made it harder for young people to find jobs, resulting in income gaps," Vice Minister Hyun said. "If this repeats, it can lead to social disconnection, turning them into isolated or reclusive youths."
According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, isolated and reclusive youths accounted for 2.4% of the total youth population in 2022, which increased to 5.2% in 2024.
"Social isolation and reclusiveness are structural risks that the younger generation will universally face in the future and will only intensify," Hyun emphasized. "While youth have not traditionally been the main target of welfare systems, we believe a safety net for them is now necessary."
He added, "The Ministry of Health and Welfare has begun researching the introduction of a basic income this year. We are studying how to guarantee income amidst the risks youth will face, and we will listen broadly to what young people want and what they consider fair to find effective policy alternatives so they can prepare for the future with peace of mind."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
※
Copying, redistribution, and unauthorized use in AI training are strictly prohibited.