Unlimited Public Transportation for ₩60,000/Month Nationwide?… A 'Generous' Transport Pass is Coming (2026 Budget Plan Summary)
Greetings. With the dawn of September, the government has unveiled its budget plan for the upcoming year (2026). This budget plan includes numerous 'generous' policies that are expected to directly benefit the lives of our citizens. I would like to provide a comprehensive summary to help you easily understand these policies through an in-depth analysis.
1. Accessible Everywhere in the Nation! 'Public Transportation Flat Pass' to be Introduced
One of the most notable pieces of news is the introduction of the 'Public Transportation Flat Pass'. This pass is expected to significantly ease transportation costs by allowing the use of public transportation up to ₩200,000 per month for a monthly fee of ₩50,000-60,000. This integrated flat pass will be usable nationwide, not limited to specific regions like Seoul's 'Climate Companion Card'.
- For Subway and Bus Only:
- General: ₩62,000/month
- Youth/Seniors, etc.: ₩55,000/month
- Including GTX (Greater Seoul Metropolitan Express) and Express Buses:
- General: ₩100,000/month
- Youth/Seniors, etc.: ₩90,000/month
For office workers and students who use public transportation daily, this is very welcome news that will drastically reduce household expenses.
2. "Our Children, More Support!"… Expansion of Child Benefits & Care Support
Support for parents raising children will also be substantially strengthened. The eligibility age for child benefits will be expanded from the current 7 years old and under to 8 years old and under. This is planned for gradual expansion to under 13 years old by 2030, with an additional budget of ₩523.8 billion allocated for child benefits next year alone.
- Expanded Child Benefit Age: From existing 7 years old and under to 8 years old and under.
- Additional Regional Support Funds: Payment amounts will increase to ₩105,000/month for non-metropolitan areas and up to **₩130,000/month** for depopulated areas.
- Expanded Childcare Service Support: The eligibility income bracket for support will expand from 200% to 250% or less of the median income, allowing more households to benefit.
3. Pilot Projects for Rural Revitalization and Reducing Burden on Workers
In addition, new pilot projects are being implemented to address the crisis of regional decline and to promote stability in workers' lives.
- Rural Basic Income: A pilot project will be implemented to provide **₩150,000/month** to 240,000 residents in 6 selected depopulated counties. This is expected to significantly contribute to revitalizing rural areas.
- Support for Workers' Hearty Meals: Small and medium-sized enterprise workers in depopulated areas will receive support for meal expenses, equivalent to **₩40,000/month**. This will be provided as a 20% discount on lunch costs, bringing tangible living expense savings.
Conclusion: Anticipating Positive Changes in Our Lives Next Year
Of course, this budget plan must go through the National Assembly's review process before being finalized. However, the government's policy direction — easing the burden on public transportation users, expanding support for parenting households, and revitalizing regions while stabilizing workers' lives — appears very clear.
We sincerely hope that all policies will be meticulously refined and contribute positively, even if small, to the lives of our citizens who are navigating through these challenging times next year. Our Building Experts will continue to do our best to provide you with useful and insightful information. Thank you.
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