Youth Budget Expanded to 43 Trillion Won... President Lee Says 'Will Grow the Pie of Growth'

[Anchor]

The government has announced plans to increase next year's youth support budget by over 50% compared to the current level, setting it at a record high of 43.3 trillion won. President Lee Jae-myung stated that he will "grow the pie of growth" so that young people can gain opportunities commensurate with their efforts.

Reporting by Kang Cheongwan.

[Reporter]

A "Youth Budget Unboxing" event was held at the Blue House to introduce the major youth support projects and budget to be implemented by the government next year.

President Lee stated that it is the government's responsibility to create a society where young people can gain opportunities as much as they work hard.

[President Lee Jae-myung: The most important thing would be economic opportunities. Ultimately, I believe the most important task for our government at this stage is to grow the pie. That is why we are focusing on growth.]

The government plans to expand next year's youth-related budget by 53.5% compared to this year to a record-high 43.3 trillion won, and roll out employment, housing, financial, and welfare policies for young people, such as supporting initial career experience, expanding future savings support, and prioritizing public housing supply.

[Lee Hye-rim / Director, Inclusive Social Strategy Division, Ministry of Planning and Budget: We aim to provide up to approximately 195 million won in support until around the age of 34, when they reach adulthood.]

According to presidential approval ratings for the third and fourth weeks of August released by pollster Gallup Korea, approval ratings among respondents aged 20 and under and in their 30s were both in the 30% range, falling below the average approval rating.

It is analyzed that President Lee and the Blue House's focus on youth policies is not unrelated to these approval rating figures.

(Camera filming: Jung Sang-bo, Yoon Hyung | Video editing: Wi Won-yang | Design: Kim Ye-ji)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.