- Proactive policies from Incheon to address demographic changes -- Mayor Yoo’s Incheon-style initiatives: a promising solution to thelow birth rate crisis –On June 6, Incheon Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok announced his participation in the “Relay Campaign to Improve Awareness of Population Issues,” highlighting the challenges posed by demographic changes such as low birth rates and an aging population and to raise social awareness.The campaign, led by the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Korea Human Resource Development Institute for Health Welfare, began in October with the involvement of First Vice Minister Lee Ki-il and has since expanded to local governments and affiliated organizations.Mayor Yoo emphasized the critical nature of addressing low birth rates through his involvement, stating, “Demographic change is one of the most pressing challenges facing our society. Incheon will actively implement various policies to address population issues and work with citizens to build a sustainable future.”Currently, Incheon is proactively addressing the rapid demographic shifts with various measures centered on the “Incheon Style Low Birth Rate Policy.”The flagship initiative, “i+ 100 Million Dream,” guarantees KRW 100 million for every child born in Incheon up to the age of 18, ensuring a stable environment for their upbringing. Among the wide range of other policies, the “1,000 Won Housing Program,” which provides housing for newlyweds and marriage-expecting couples at a daily rent of just KRW 1,000, is another example of Incheon’s tailored approach to population challenges.As such, Incheon is taking a multi-faceted approach to solving the issues posed by demographic changes, going beyond addressing birth encouragement to encompass marriage, childcare, and housing.For the campaign’s momentum, Mayor Yoo nominated Hwang Yeong-gi, Chairman of the Green Umbrella (ChildFund Korea), and Lee Dong-guk, Incheon’s promotional ambassador and a well-know

- Support period extended to 24 months, offering KRW 200,000 per month,up to KRW 4.8 million in total -- Application remains open until February 25, for Incheon residents aged 19 through 39 –The Incheon Metropolitan City government (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) has announced the recruitment of applicants for the second phase of its Young Adult Rent Support Program, which provides monthly rent assistance up to KRW 4.8 million per recipient, offering KRW 200,000 per month. Those interested may submit their applications by February 25, 2025.Since its launch in 2022, the program has already benefited 7,769 young individuals. The program has been widely recognized for reducing financial burdens and increasing housing stability.* Beneficiaries by year: 1,381 in 2022, 2,532 in 2023, and 3,856 in 2024The initiative, which began in 2022 and will continue until 2027, initially accepted applications between August 2022 and August 2023.The recruitment period falls under the second application phase (from February 2024 to February 2025), and starting January 2025, the financial support period is now doubled from 12 to 24 months, providing even greater relief for young adults. Retroactive benefits are also available for eligible individuals who apply during this period.Applicants must be young adults between the ages of 19 and 39 who live independently from their parents and do not own a home. Notably, Incheon extends the age limit by five years compared to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport’s special rent support program, which is capped at 34, in an effort to accommodate more beneficiaries.The income limits are 60% or less of the median income for independent youth households (KRW 1.43 million based on a single-person household) and 100% or less of the median income for youths’ original family (KRW 5.02 million for a three-person household). Also, the applicants’ assets must not exceed KRW 122 million for independent youth households and KRW 470 million for the

- Deeper, warmer care: sharing welfare vision with citizens -- Strengthening user-oriented, personalized welfare servicesfrom birth to elderly years –On January 8, the Incheon Metropolitan Government held a policy-sharing forum at the Namdong-gu Senior Welfare Center’s auditorium under the theme “Realizing Citizen-Centered Welfare.”The forum departed from the traditional year-end and new-year practice of internal key task reports and provided a platform to directly share welfare achievements and plans with citizens, who are the actual beneficiaries, and gather their feedback.In 2025, Incheon’s welfare policies will focus on protecting vulnerable groups, promoting health of citizens, and expanding welfare infrastructure.Strengthening Support for Vulnerable Groups:Reducing Economic Burdens and Expanding Tailored CareIn efforts to ease the economic strain on vulnerable groups, the city plans to increase Basic Livelihood Security benefits and the Incheon-style basic income program, “Didimdol Stable Income,” by 6.42%. The support criteria for dependents will be eased, and emergency living support under the Incheon-style SOS Welfare Program will see a 2.14% increase. For persons with disabilities, the basic pension amount will be raised by 2.3% and the number of disability allowance recipients will be expanded.Furthermore, personalized care services will be improved, including routine and emergency care, integrated care for the severely developmentally disabled individuals, and strengthening of the operation of comprehensive home care centers managed by the Social Services Institute. A dedicated Youth Future Center will be established to support isolated or reclusive youth, while integrated social services will be provided for middle-aged single-person households.Incheon City to Promote the Health of Citizensthrough Strengthened Medical Systems and Preventive PoliciesThe Incheon Metropolitan Government will establish an emergency medical system for high-risk

- KRW 1.5 million to be provided in Incheon e-Eum points from February 3 -- Available for postpartum care centers, hospitals, yoga,and other health-related expenses -On February 3, the Incheon Metropolitan Government (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) will announce the launch of the “Mom-Comfort Postpartum Care Support Project,” providing KRW 1.5 million in Incheon e-Eum points to vulnerable mothers for postnatal care expenses.As part of the “i-Plus One Billion Dream” initiative, this project addresses strong citizen demand for postpartum care support. It allows mothers to use the subsidy not only for postpartum care centers but also for various postpartum health management services.Eligible recipients include mothers from vulnerable groups who have been registered residents of Incheon for at least 12 months and are currently residing in the city. Vulnerable groups include low-income families, persons with disabilities, protected North Korean defectors, multicultural families with incomes below 65% of the median income level, single-parent households, mothers with rare diseases, teenage couples, families with multiple births, and households with incomes below 60% of the median income level. Applicants must have given birth on or after January 1, 2025, and complete an e-learning parenting education program provided by the Central Childcare Support Center.Applications must be submitted by the mother through the GOV.KR website from the 32nd week of pregnancy to within 90 days of delivery. The Incheon e-Eum points, worth KRW 1.5 million, can be used for postpartum care center fees, medical expenses, medication, health supplements, yoga, and other postpartum health-related expenses. The points are valid for one year from the date of issuance.The city implemented this project in response to surveys and research that indicated a high need for postpartum support. Based on the results of these efforts, the initiative aims to promote healthy recovery for mothers while alleviating

- Intergenerational public welfare projects, from birth to senior care,designed to improve livelihoods through policy benefits -The Incheon Metropolitan Government (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) is ushering in 2025 with diverse initiatives that align with its vision of becoming a “world-class city where citizens are happy.” These policies aim to make a tangible difference in the lives of citizens.A comprehensive guidebook, “2025: A Better Life in Incheon,” will be published to inform citizens about the year’s major policies and initiatives. Available both online and offline, the guidebook ensures easy access to key information.First, support for the economy and employment sector will be strengthened. “Half-Price Courier Service” for small business owners will be expanded to include all 370,000 small business owners in Incheon. Up to KRW 400,000 will also be provided to support moving expenses for young people relocating to Incheon for education or employment. New support for sole proprietorships will be introduced to cover 10% of employment insurance premiums. Support for job-seeking women will also be enhanced through participation subsidies and expanded funding for internship.In the transportation sector, the “Incheon i-Sea Pass” will be introduced, allowing Incheon residents to use passenger ferries at the cost of city bus fares (1,500 KRW), thus improving access to island regions. The “i-Plus Transit Fare Dream” initiative will also be fully implemented, offering subsidies of up to 70% for public transportation costs for children up to the age of seven. In addition, the toll for the Incheon Bridge will be significantly reduced from KRW 5,500 to KRW 2,000. The third bridge connecting Yeongjong and Cheongna will open in December, and the Incheon Metro Line 1 will be extended to Geomdan, significantly improving traffic flow and convenience.In terms of health and welfare, the city will promote a “10,000 Steps a Day Challenge” for Incheon citizens. A

- Access to 25 islands in Ganghwa-gun and Ongjin-gunwith city bus fare for Incheon residents -- First in the country to integrate passenger ferries intopublic transportation, with fare support expandedup to 70% for non-residents of Incheon -- Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok: “A major turning point inrevitalization of tourism on Incheon’s islands” -The Incheon Metropolitan Government (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) is set to officially implement the “Incheon i-Sea Pass” project in January 2025. This initiative, the first of its kind in the country, enables all citizens to use passenger ferries at the city bus fare.The “Incheon i-Sea Pass” aims to guarantee the mobility rights of Incheon residents and to boost the local economy by revitalizing island tourism. The program covers 25 islands in Ganghwa-gun and Ongjin-gun.Incheon residents are able to use passenger ferries for KRW 1,500 for a one-way trip, which is equivalent to the city bus fare. Non-residents will benefit from increased fare subsidies and pay only 30% of the regular fare. The discount has increased from the previous 50% to 70%. The discounted fare is automatically applied to online reservations or on-site ticketing at terminals without a separate application process, increasing user convenience.On January 2, Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok attended a promotional event held at the Incheon Coastal Passenger Terminal to mark the successful launch of this initiative.During the event, Mayor Yoo conducted safety inspections before the ferry departure and engaged directly with citizens, explaining the key benefits and instructions regarding the “Incheon i-Sea Pass.” Brochures were also distributed to highlight the importance and expected impact of the policy. Mayor Yoo stated, “This initiative is a significant turning point, providing an opportunity to visit Incheon’s islands without financial burden. We anticipate the i-Sea Pass will contribute immensely to the revitalization of island tourism.” He also emphasized th

- Addressing current issues from construction progress to open by December next year to reduction of tourism resources -- Plans to hold a meeting to gather opinions from Yeongjong residents ahead ofthe 3rd Yeollyukgyo Bridge opening –Incheon Metropolitan City (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) announced that Mayor Yoo visited the construction site of the 3rd Yeollyukgyo Bridge to inspect issues on Nov. 13, 2024.This visit was made as a measure to address concerns about preparations for the opening of the 3rd Yeollyukgyo Bridge by December next year and issues related to the reduction of tourism resources on the Yeongjong side.On this day, Mayor Yoo received a briefing from site officials on the progress of construction and future plans. On section 1 on the Yeongjong side of the 3rd Yeollyukgyo Bridge, installation of the upper structures (i.e., IPC girders) for 15 out of 24 spans of the connecting bridge has been completed. Cable connection and steel bridge installation work for the main tower of the suspension bridge is currently underway.Section 2 on the Cheongna side completed connecting trusses for the main tower of the suspension bridge by the end of November. Subsequently, the plan is to actively proceed with cable connection and steel bridge installation work for the main tower to achieve an overall progress rate of 78% by year-end. Site officials reported that they would proceed without any disruptions to ensure opening by next year through thorough process management.Mayor Yoo urged "to ensure there are no disruptions in construction progress for the grand opening of the bridge by December next year," and instructed "to actively review related alternatives so that tourism support facilities desired by residents can be established."Accordingly, the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority plans to prepare alternatives such as utilizing the neighborhood park site (no. 20) near Yeongjong in relation to issues with reducing tourism resources on the Yeongjong side.The 3rd Yeol

- Business consultations and press meeting on Nov. 12 and 14,targeting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City-- Achievements include strengthening promotional networks andattracting tourists through business agreements with Vietnamese broadcaster and travel association -Incheon Metropolitan City (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) and the Incheon Tourism Organization (President Baek Hyun) announced that they successfully held an exclusive roadshow for local businesses and travel agency representatives in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on Nov. 12 and 14, 2024.This event, in which 11 member companies of the Incheon MICE Alliance and 6 medical institutions participated along with local industry representatives, is significant in that it worked together to raise awareness of Incheon as an optimal city for tourism and MICE as well as to attract tourism and MICE demand.Particularly, in the business consultation meetings held in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, a total of 280 consultations took place, of which about 30% were positively evaluated for attracting actual tourists and hosting MICE events in Incheon, expanding the actual visits of Vietnamese tourists to Incheon.In addition, they strengthened Incheon's promotional network through signing a business agreement with VTC, one of Vietnam's major state-owned broadcasters, and visiting Ho Chi Minh City Television (HTV), while laying the groundwork for attracting actual tourists through business agreements with the Hanoi Tourism Association and local Vietnamese travel agencies.Director Kim Eun-hyo of Incheon's Tourism and MICE Division said, "Vietnam is one of the largest markets for Korean tourists and MICE groups, and through the exclusive roadshow jointly participated by the local MICE Alliance and medical institutions, I believe we have laid the groundwork for actively attracting Vietnamese tourists to Incheon in the future." He added, "We will continue to make efforts so that many Vietnamese tourists can visit Incheon through ongoing attract

- Rediscovering the history and culture of Incheon's port openingthrough dumpling-making food experience -- Plans to develop Incheon's Open Port Area into a global attractionthrough various programs -Incheon Metropolitan City (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) received a great response by holding the Open Port Food Experience program for foreigners residing in Incheon at the Incheon Art Platform on Nov. 16, 2024.This event was planned as part of the 1883 Gaehang Salon's citizen participation program and was held to introduce the history and culture of Incheon's port opening to participants through food experiences.In particular, this event, conducted in collaboration with the Incheon Support Center for Foreign Residents, was attended by about 20 foreigners of various nationalities, including Chinese, Russian, and Burmese. They had time to make and taste dumplings, a representative food of Incheon's Open Port Area, enhancing their understanding of Korean culture and Incheon's port opening. Additionally, foreign participants had the opportunity to experience the charms of Korean food, which is driving the popularity of Korean culture, and to feel the diverse cultural heritage of the Open Port Area.Dumplings have been a light meal enjoyed among dock workers since the opening of Jemulpo Port in 1883, continuing its fame with Chinese-style meat dumplings in Chinatown and North Korean-style dumplings in Sinpo-dong. Recently, it has been gaining more attention as a popular Korean food both domestically and internationally through cooking competition programs on online streaming services.Director-General Kim Jun-seong of Incheon's Global City Bureau said, "Incheon's Open Port Area is a place rich in historical value with various local content, and we hope that through this program, the Open Port Area can establish itself as a cultural landmark of Incheon for foreigners as well." He added, "Incheon will continue to develop the port opening area into a global attraction through various pr

- Promoting a kimchi-making experience event for3,200 children at 26 kindergartens -- Incheon City aims to convey the importance of traditional foods to children through kimchi-making experience -Incheon Metropolitan City (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) announced that it will conduct a “Kimchi-Making Experience” event over three weeks from Nov. 4 to Nov. 22, visiting 26 local kindergartens and engaging approximately 3,200 children.This event is sponsored by Incheon City and organized by the Incheon Kimchi Pickling Cooperative Association. It aims to educate children and their families about the excellence of kimchi, providing hands-on activities such as mixing and tasting kimchi to highlight the importance of traditional foods and promote the preservation and value of kimchi culture.Kindergartens participating in the event were recruited through applications from Oct. 28 to Nov 1, and selected kindergartens will be provided with 2 kg of salted cabbage and seasoning per child, free of charge. Only domestic cabbage and seasoning ingredients are used in this event, and the kimchi made by the children will be distributed to the kindergartens.Incheon City announced that four out of fifteen companies belonging to the Incheon Kimchi Pickling Cooperative Association will participate in this event, including Nongga Food, Sungwon Food, Uri Kimchi, and Jeongwoo Food.Amid recent agricultural supply instability due to climate change, particularly with the summer heatwaves impacting cabbage supply and causing a severe blow to the kimchi manufacturing industry, this experience event is anticipated to support the resilience of local businesses.In addition, the Incheon Kimchi Pickling Cooperative Association launched the integrated brand, Soseongchae, in Aug. 2023 to overcome the difficulties in the kimchi manufacturing industry, and plans to produce and introduce this brand product to consumers next year.Kim Jung-hoe, Director of the Agriculture and Livestock Division, stated, "I hope th