[슬라생] 이준석 '노인 무임승차' 폐지? 교통 전문가 "주먹구구식 공약, 굉장히 훌륭한 제도" #무임승차 #이준석 #노인무임승차 _230123

Summary

The video discusses South Korea's free subway rides policy for seniors over 65, which has been in place for over 40 years. It outlines the policy's benefits like improving elderly health and reducing medical costs. However, with an aging population, subsidies are becoming a large financial burden for local governments. Possible reform options are explored - like linking eligibility to retirement age or partial fare discounts. But changes should follow careful analysis to balance different needs and impacts.

Takeaways

• 😊 The free subway rides for seniors over 65 started in the 1980s by law under the Elderly Welfare Act.
• 😮 The free rides cost local governments billions of dollars per year in lost revenue.
• 👍 The free rides have health benefits by keeping seniors active and reducing medical costs.
• 😕 The central government hasn't provided support despite mandating the free rides.
• 🤔 Raising the age limit could align with retirement age and pension eligibility.
• 😯 Ridership and costs are increasing rapidly as the senior population grows.
• 🧐 Any changes should be based on objective analysis, not just speculation.
• 🔍 The policy should be reviewed to see if the benefits outweigh the costs.
• 📈 Foreign countries take different approaches like income-based discounts.
• 💡 Overall, the policy has been very successful so changes should be considered carefully.

Q & A

What is the free subway rides for seniors policy in South Korea?

South Korea has a policy that allows seniors aged 65 and over to ride subways for free. This policy started in the 1980s and is mandated by the Senior Welfare Act.

What are some of the benefits of the free rides policy?

Proponents argue it promotes seniors' mobility and mental/physical health by encouraging them to go out more. It may also reduce medical costs by keeping seniors active. The policy helps low-income seniors afford transportation.

What are some of the drawbacks or criticisms of the policy?

With rapid aging, more seniors are using subways, increasing costs for local governments who operate subways. Some argue it is unfair as only subway riders benefit, not bus riders. Others say the age threshold of 65 should increase as life expectancy rises.

How much does the free rides policy cost annually?

The policy costs local governments around $300-400 million per year. For Seoul, it contributes to around 30% of its subway operating losses.

Why does the central government oppose compensating local governments?

The central government argues that public transit operation costs should be borne by local governments. However, the free rides policy is mandated by national law, so local governments argue the costs should be shared.

What are some policy reform proposals?

Proposals include raising the age threshold to align with retirement age, switching to a subsidy or discount program rather than free rides, or means-testing based on seniors' income levels.

How does South Korea's policy compare internationally?

South Korea's universal free rides for seniors is quite generous compared to other countries. Many nations have discounted fares or means-tested policies instead of free rides.

What does Professor Yoo argue regarding reforms?

He argues changes should be carefully considered and backed by objective analysis of costs/benefits. Sudden drastic changes to a longstanding policy could have unintended consequences.

What reforms does Professor Yoo suggest?

He suggests aligning the age threshold to retirement age increases. He advocates having the government conduct an official feasibility study on the policy's costs and benefits before reforms.

What is Professor Yoo's overall view on the policy?

He views it as a worthwhile policy that promotes seniors' welfare, but is open to evidence-based reforms if analysis shows changes would be socially/economically beneficial.