Seoul Council Bill Seeking Reciprocity in Welfare programs Faces Criticism
A proposal before the Seoul Metropolitan Council that would tie welfare benefits for foreign residents to reciprocal treatment of Koreans abroad is generating significant controversy, with opponents calling it discriminatory.
The bill, introduced October 20th by 33 members of the conservative People Power Party, asks the city government to consider “reciprocity” when providing financial, educational, housing, and transportation support to foreign nationals. Under the proposed ordinance, foreign residents would only be eligible for these city-funded benefits if their home countries offer similar assistance to Koreans. Furthermore, the draft suggests excluding residents from programs if Koreans experience discrimination or unequal benefits in their home countries.
Exceptions are included for refugees, individuals covered by international agreements, business owners, and “skilled workers” – though the bill dose not define what constitutes a skilled worker.
Council member Shim Mi-kyung, the bill’s lead proponent, argues the measure addresses a fairness issue. ”Some countries do not offer comparable assistance to Koreans, yet Seoul provides extensive support to foreigners,” she stated.”This bill aims to create a more balanced system and prevent perceived reverse discrimination against Korean citizens.”
Though,the proposal has been met with swift and strong opposition.The Basic Income party condemned the bill as “a clear act of racism and a violation of human rights,” asserting that the principle of reciprocity is applicable to international diplomatic relations, not individual access to social welfare.
The bill is currently under review by the council’s Urban Planning Balance Committee.
