President Yoon Suk Yeol has announced a 25 trillion-won ($18 billion) support package for struggling micro business owners, emphasizing the importance of tailored support over universal cash handouts. He highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by micro business owners due to debts accumulated during the COVID-19 pandemic and stressed the need for targeted assistance rather than populist measures. This announcement was also perceived as a critique of the opposition's proposal for cash handouts to all citizens. The support plan includes expanding low-interest loans, extending repayment periods for policy loans, providing subsidies for electricity and rent costs, and extending tax benefits for landlords who lower rent for micro business tenants. Additionally, the government plans to offer debt restructuring and recovery support for businesses facing closure. President Yoon also outlined his commitment to removing regulatory barriers to foster the growth of new industries and enhancing corporate value through measures such as increased tax benefits for companies that raise dividends and lower tax rates on dividend income. Despite recent positive economic indicators, Yoon acknowledged that the benefits have not yet translated into tangible improvements for the local economy, and he aims to address the slowdown in economic growth caused by global economic challenges and weak domestic demand.