Have you heard about the latest economic magic trick from South Korea? President Lee Jae-myung has decided to give every citizen about 100 euros, but not to save or spend as they wish – no, he wants them to spend it in restaurants! Yes, you read that right. Amid a drop in consumption, the president personally dined at a restaurant in Seoul and urged everyone to follow his lead and eat out more often to support small hospitality businesses and local traders. “Eat in restaurants, save the economy!” – that’s the new slogan. But is this really a solution or just another political stunt?
This initiative comes just as South Korea prepares to distribute a one-time cash aid to all citizens on July 21, aimed at boosting consumption. The amount varies depending on household income but averages around 100 euros per person. The president has ordered senior officials to prepare measures to maximize the impact of this payout.
Imagine this – the state gives you money, but only if you spend it in restaurants. As if that’s the only way to kickstart the economy! What if someone doesn’t like eating out? Or if restaurants are too expensive? Is this really help or just an attempt to show that something is being done?
While South Korea hands out cash and begs people to eat in restaurants, the world faces other economic troubles – US President Donald Trump is imposing 30% tariffs on imports from the EU starting August 1, and the famous German chain Dollinger is announcing the closure of all its stores by the end of October. The economy is in chaos, and politicians are clutching at straws.
Will this South Korean initiative work? Will people really rush to restaurants for 100 euros? Or will it just be another media story? If you have thoughts, share them – maybe together we’ll figure out if this is a rescue or just another farce!
