Seoul council proposal to limit welfare programs based on nationality sparks criticism
Councilor claims measure aimed at preventing 'reverse discrimination' against Korean citizens
A proposed ordinance at the Seoul Metropolitan Council has sparked controversy, as it would allow the city government to differentiate welfare and support programs for foreign residents based on nationality.
According to the council, Shim Mi-kyung, a council member from the conservative People Power Party, along with 32 party colleagues, recently introduced a bill to make foreign residents eligible for certain city-funded programs only if their home countries provide similar benefits to Korean nationals.
It would also require the mayor to review whether those countries provide similar support before implementing policies aimed at assisting foreign nationals.
Under the proposal, foreign nationals could be excluded from city support programs if their home countries fail to provide equivalent benefits or if Koreans are deemed to face discriminatory treatment there.
Exceptions would be made for refugees, those in need of humanitarian aid and foreign entrepreneurs or skilled workers who contribute to the local economy and job market.
The bill, introduced in late October, has not yet been referred to the Urban Planning and Balanced Development Committee, which handles related matters.
The Seoul branch of the minor progressive Basic Income Party denounced the bill as "blatant racial discrimination and violation of human rights."
"The principle of reciprocity is a concept used in diplomacy between states, not something that can be applied to individual residents," the party said in a statement. "As public officials representing the citizens of Seoul, the proposers should withdraw this ordinance immediately if they have any sense of conscience."
Critics have also questioned the bill's feasibility, noting that the Seoul Metropolitan Government, as a local body, may lack the authority to assess the welfare systems of foreign central governments. They added that such an initiative would run counter to the city government's efforts to globalize the city.
As of 2024, about 440,000 foreign residents were living in Seoul, accounting for 4.7 percent of the city’s population.
In response to criticism, Shim dismissed claims that the bill is discriminatory, saying it aims to enhance transparency and fairness in welfare programs.
"The Seoul Metropolitan Government currently operates various welfare, economic and social support programs without distinguishing between Koreans and foreign nationals, but some countries do not provide similar benefits to Korean nationals," Shim told The Korea Times Thursday.
"For example, as the number of business owners increases among foreign nationals, there have been cases in which recipients of small business loan guarantees left the country without repaying their debts. The system needs greater transparency."
She added that the measure seeks to "promote fairness and prevent reverse discrimination against Korean citizens," adding that linking it to racial discrimination is inappropriate.
"As more foreign residents settle in the city, establishing clear and transparent rules will ultimately help Seoul become a more globalized city."
Source : https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/globalcommunity/20251106/seoul-council-proposal-to-limit-welfare-programs-based-on-nationality-sparks-criticism |
