All You Need to Know About the Open 민생회복 Consumption Coupons

A New Era of Coupon Applications

Did you hear the news? Starting October 26, the government’s 민생회복 consumption coupons are open to everyone—no more weekday limitations based on birth year. Online applications via card company websites and apps run around the clock, while in-person sign-ups at community centers and bank branches operate during business hours. Despite some areas still running local weekday schedules for offline visits, the move to full access has sparked a surge in applications nationwide.

Who Gets What and How Much?

Each adult citizen receives a base coupon worth ₩150,000, with extra amounts for low-income groups: ₩300,000 for near-poor and single-parent households, ₩400,000 for basic livelihood recipients, plus regional boosts of ₩30,000 for non-capital residents and ₩50,000 for those in rural depopulation areas. That’s up to ₩450,000 in your pocket! Choose between credit/debit card point refunds, prepaid cards, or the mobile or plastic versions of local gift certificates—whatever suits your style.

Spending Spree: Where and How

Ready, set, spend! Funds can only be used at small businesses with annual revenues under ₩3 billion: traditional markets, neighborhood marts, restaurants, salons, pharmacies, academies, and yes, convenience stores. Major chains like CU, GS25, Seven-Eleven, and Emart24 have signed on to lure coupon users with app-based guides, exclusive discounts, and special events. Seven-Eleven saw a 400 percent spike in new app installs and a 60 percent jump in daily active users during the first days of renewed applications!

Voices from the Community

Online forums and blogs have been abuzz: some rejoiced at the flexibility and ease of use, while others voiced frustration over store eligibility checklists and app glitches. On Naver blogs, users praised map features showing nearby partner stores, but voiced a wish for clearer in-store signage. On Tistory, convenience store shoppers shared tips on stacking coupon discounts with loyalty points—now that’s fan ingenuity at work!

Cultural Insights for Global Readers

Korea’s consumption coupons aren’t just about spending—they reflect a deep cultural emphasis on supporting local merchants and community resilience. Think of it as a nationwide campaign to bolster small businesses, celebrated with lively market atmospheres and neighborhood solidarity. For international visitors, experiencing a traditional market with your coupon feels like joining a local festival—don’t miss the tteokbokki stalls or the aroma of fresh kimchi pancakes!