eFM News

South Korea is easing its anti-graft law for the Lunar New Year holiday in a bid to boost sales of agricultural and fisheries products amid continued economic fallout from the pandemic.

According to the government, the ceiling on the value of agricultural gifts that can be received by public servants, educators and journalists will be temporarily raised to 200,000 won.

The revision to the law, also known as the Kim Young-ran Act, took effect Tuesday and will continue until February 14.

South Koreans normally visit their families and relatives over the major holiday, but fewer people are expected to do so this year due to COVID-19, which is also expected to deal a harsh blow to already struggling sectors.

First implemented in September 2016, the law bans officials from public institutions, schools and media outlets from receiving free meals valued at over 30,000 won, gifts worth more than 50,000 won, agricultural goods worth more 100,000 won and congratulatory or condolence money of more than 100,000 won.

This is the second time the government has eased the rule since its inception.

Last fall, it was eased during the Chuseok holiday period, resulting in a 7 percent increase in sales of agricultural product compared to the previous year.