Kim Min-seok of the Democratic Party of Korea visited the Noryangjin Fish Market about two weeks before Chuseok to promote seafood consumption as part of a livelihood-focused outreach. Kim said he would consider ways to spur consumption through exceptional application of the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act, commonly known as the "Kim Young-ran Act."
On the morning of the 8th, Kim visited the Noryangjin Fish Market in Dongjak-gu, Seoul, to check prices at the table and held a roundtable to hear merchants' difficulties.
At the roundtable, the merchants' association told Kim, "The Kim Young-ran Act has been eased, but spending through corporate cards still is not sufficient," and requested, "Further easing, such as raising limits, is needed."
In response, Kim said, "It is difficult to completely neutralize the intent of the Kim Young-ran Act," but added, "Unlike gifts, there may be room to think about company dinners." He then said, "We will consider measures to boost consumption through company dinners during peak holiday seasons."
Under the current Kim Young-ran Act and its enforcement decree, the cap on food and congratulations and condolences expenses that can be provided to public officials and others is 50,000 won. However, agricultural and fishery products, processed goods, and related gift certificates are allowed up to 150,000 won, and around Seol and Chuseok holidays the cap can be up to 300,000 won. When public officials and others hold company dinners on corporate cards, exceeding 30,000 won per person can be subject to sanctions.
He also said, "There is a need to revitalize the Noryangjin Fish Market as a market with global competitiveness," adding, "We will discuss with the district office and the National Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives about adding a facade and spots for 'proof shot' photos on the exterior wall, luggage lockers, and expanding transportation such as tour buses during peak tourist hours."
Kim also toured various parts of the market while greeting market officials. In front of a tank, he asked the sale price, and he shook hands warmly with a merchant who introduced themself as a "Minty subscriber." He also personally tasted seasoned skate.
Meanwhile, in the afternoon, Kim plans to visit the office of the Korea National Assemblymen's Association located at the National Assembly to pay a courtesy call on President Chung Dae-chul, as well as vice presidents Kim Dong-ju, Kim Yong-gyun, Park Sang-hee, Yoo In-hak, and Yoo Joon-sang, and senior advisor Kwon No-gap.