Jeonju

1. Overview of Social Welfare in South Korea

South Korea’s social welfare system is designed to provide support for individuals and families in need, focusing on areas such as healthcare, housing, education, employment, and financial assistance. Jeonju, as a city, implements these national programs while also offering localized services tailored to its residents.

---

2. Types of Social Welfare Benefits in Jeonju

A. Financial Assistance

1. Basic Livelihood Security Program (기초생활보장제도)

   • Description: Provides financial support for low-income households to cover living expenses, housing, medical care, and education.
   • Eligibility:
     • South Korean citizens or long-term residents (foreigners with F-2, F-5, or F-6 visas).
     • Household income and assets must fall below a certain threshold.
   • Benefits:
     • Monthly cash allowances for living expenses.
     • Subsidies for medical expenses, housing, and education.
   • Application: Apply at your local Jeonju Community Welfare Center (전주시 주민센터).

2. Emergency Welfare Support (긴급복지지원제도)

   • Description: Temporary financial aid for individuals or families facing sudden financial crises (e.g., job loss, illness, or natural disasters).
   • Eligibility: Residents experiencing unexpected financial hardship.
   • Benefits: One-time cash assistance, medical expense coverage, or housing support.
   • Application: Contact the Jeonju City Hall Welfare Division or your local community center.

---

B. Healthcare Benefits

1. National Health Insurance (NHI, 국민건강보험)

   • Description: Mandatory health insurance for all residents, including foreigners staying in Korea for more than six months.
   • Eligibility: All registered residents, including foreign workers and students.
   • Benefits:
     • Subsidized medical treatments, hospital visits, and prescription medications.
     • Preventive care services, such as vaccinations and health screenings.
   • Costs: Monthly premiums based on income level.
   • Application: Register through the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) or at the Jeonju branch office.

2. Medical Aid Program (의료급여)

   • Description: Free or heavily subsidized healthcare for low-income individuals.
   • Eligibility: Recipients of the Basic Livelihood Security Program.
   • Benefits: Free or reduced-cost medical treatments and prescriptions.
   • Application: Apply through your local welfare center.

---

C. Housing Assistance

1. Public Rental Housing (공공임대주택)

   • Description: Affordable housing options for low-income families, newlyweds, and young professionals.
   • Eligibility: Residents with low to moderate income levels.
   • Benefits: Subsidized rent for public housing units.
   • Application: Contact the Jeonju Housing Corporation (전주시 주택공사) or the local welfare office.

2. Housing Subsidies

   • Description: Financial support for rent or housing-related expenses.
   • Eligibility: Low-income households or individuals facing housing instability.
   • Application: Apply through the local welfare center.

---

D. Child and Family Support

1. Childcare Subsidies (보육료 지원)

   • Description: Financial assistance for childcare expenses.
   • Eligibility: Families with children under the age of 5.
   • Benefits: Subsidies for daycare or kindergarten fees.
   • Application: Apply through the Jeonju City Childcare Support Center (전주시 육아종합지원센터).

2. Single-Parent Family Support (한부모가족 지원)

   • Description: Financial and social support for single-parent households.
   • Eligibility: Single parents with children under 18 years old.
   • Benefits: Monthly allowances, childcare support, and job training programs.
   • Application: Contact the local welfare center.

---

E. Employment and Training

1. Employment Insurance (고용보험)

   • Description: Provides unemployment benefits and job training programs.
   • Eligibility: Workers enrolled in the Employment Insurance system.
   • Benefits:
     • Unemployment benefits for those who lose their jobs.
     • Access to job training and career counseling.
   • Application: Register through the Jeonju Employment Center (전주고용센터).

2. Vocational Training Programs

   • Description: Free or subsidized job training programs for unemployed individuals or those seeking new skills.
   • Eligibility: Residents registered with the Employment Insurance system.
   • Application: Contact the Jeonju Employment Center.

---

F. Support for the Elderly and Disabled

1. Senior Citizen Welfare Programs (노인복지 프로그램)

   • Description: Services and financial support for elderly residents.
   • Eligibility: Residents aged 65 and older.
   • Benefits: Free or discounted access to senior centers, healthcare services, and public transportation.
   • Application: Visit the Jeonju Senior Welfare Center (전주시 노인복지관).

2. Disability Benefits (장애인 복지)

   • Description: Financial aid, medical support, and vocational training for individuals with disabilities.
   • Eligibility: Residents with certified disabilities.
   • Application: Apply through the local welfare center or the Jeonju Disability Welfare Center (전주시 장애인복지관).

---

3. Application Procedures

1. Step 1: Determine Eligibility

   • Check the specific eligibility criteria for the benefit you wish to apply for.
   • Gather necessary documents (see below).

2. Step 2: Visit the Appropriate Office

   • Most applications can be submitted at your local Jeonju Community Welfare Center or the relevant specialized office (e.g., Employment Center, Housing Corporation).

3. Step 3: Submit Required Documents

   • Common documents include:
     • Alien Registration Card (ARC) for foreign residents.
     • Proof of income and assets (e.g., bank statements, employment contracts).
     • Proof of residence (e.g., lease agreement or utility bill).
     • Family relationship certificate (if applicable).

4. Step 4: Wait for Approval

   • Processing times vary depending on the program. You may be contacted for additional information or an interview.

5. Step 5: Receive Benefits

   • Once approved, benefits are typically disbursed monthly or as a one-time payment.

---

4. Local Offices and Resources in Jeonju

• Jeonju City Hall Welfare Division (전주시청 복지과)

  • Address: 190, Gijeong-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do
  • Phone: +82-63-222-1000

• Jeonju Community Welfare Centers (전주시 주민센터)

  • Locations: Various neighborhoods across Jeonju.
  • Services: General welfare applications and consultations.

• Jeonju Employment Center (전주고용센터)

  • Address: 33, Jeonjucheon-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do
  • Phone: +82-63-270-9000

• Jeonju Disability Welfare Center (전주시 장애인복지관)

  • Address: 123, Hyoja-ro, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do
  • Phone: +82-63-239-1000

• Jeonju Senior Welfare Center (전주시 노인복지관)

  • Address: 45, Pungnammun 2-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do
  • Phone: +82-63-230-1000

---

5. Cultural and Regional Considerations

• Community-Oriented Culture: Jeonju residents value community and mutual support. Participating in local events or volunteering can help you integrate and build connections.
• Language Barrier: Most welfare offices provide services in Korean. If you are not fluent, consider bringing a Korean-speaking friend or hiring a translator. Some offices may have English-speaking staff or offer interpretation services.
• Local Support Networks: Jeonju has a growing community of foreign residents. Look for expat groups or multicultural centers for additional support and guidance.

---

By understanding the available benefits and following the outlined procedures, you can access the social welfare resources you need in Jeonju. If you have further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the local offices or community organizations.