Jeju City Mayor apologizes for excluding contract workers from holiday vouchers

Jeju City Mayor Lee Sang-bong issued a formal apology following controversy over the exclusion of approximately 1,967 contract workers from receiving Chuseok holiday gift vouchers. While general civil servants and public service workers in Jeju City received 20,000 won in local currency vouchers (Tamnanajeon), contract workers were left out entirely.

The disparity in welfare distribution was noted across the region. In Seogwipo City, contract workers received 10,000 won, while general staff received 20,000 won. In contrast, Jeju Province provided the full 20,000 won to all employees, including contract workers.

Mayor Lee stated that the failure to include contract workers was his responsibility as the head of the city administration. He acknowledged the sense of deprivation and alienation caused by the decision and promised to coordinate with relevant departments to take corrective measures and improve welfare planning to prevent future discrimination.