South Korea refugee livelihood support shift to card points sparks protest

Human rights organizations and refugee advocates are protesting a South Korean Ministry of Justice plan to transition livelihood support for refugee applicants from cash transfers to card points starting next month.

The Ministry of Justice announced the change following an agreement with Woori Card, citing concerns regarding the “misuse of funds” for purposes other than intended. However, activists argue that the point-based system will create significant barriers for vulnerable populations. They note that refugee applicants, who are legally restricted from working for up to six months, rely heavily on these funds for essential costs such as monthly rent via bank transfer and purchasing specific goods like Halal food, which may not accept card points.

Critics also pointed out that the requirement to open a card account adds a new bureaucratic hurdle for refugees who already face difficulties opening traditional bank accounts. While the Ministry is reportedly considering a measure to allow up to 50% of the points to be withdrawn as cash, advocacy groups are demanding a full reversal of the plan and a return to the principle of cash payments to ensure practical support for living expenses.