Benefits for spending Onnuri gift certificates will now vary depending on where they are used. The government has announced a reform plan offering combined benefits of 10% at traditional markets — through purchase discounts and post-use refunds — and 8% at local backstreet commercial districts.

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups announced the 'Onnuri Gift Certificate Reform Plan,' prepared jointly with related ministries, at the Economic Ministers' Meeting on the 1st. The reform focuses benefits on traditional markets and local commercial districts, and supports franchise merchant sales growth by linking the certificates with regional tourism and private services.

10% Benefits at Traditional Markets, 8% at Local Backstreet Commercial Districts

At traditional markets, a total benefit of 10% will be provided: a 5% discount at purchase plus a 5% refund after use. At local backstreet commercial districts, a 5% purchase discount and 3% post-use refund combine for a total of 8%. Since the total benefit includes the post-use refund, this differs from the previous method of receiving the full discount at the purchase stage.

Previously, the same purchase discount benefit applied regardless of where the certificates were used. The core of this reform is differentiating refund benefits according to the commercial district where spending takes place.

Regional Tourism-Linked Benefits Also to Be Provided

For consumers using digital Onnuri gift certificates in regional areas, the government plans to provide additional region-linked benefits such as tourist attraction discounts and lodging vouchers. The aim is to expand consumption at traditional markets and backstreet commercial districts by connecting gift certificate use with regional tourism.

Designation Criteria for Backstreet Shopping Districts Also Change

The designation criteria for backstreet shopping districts will also change. Criteria will be applied differentially according to local governments' fiscal conditions, favoring vulnerable commercial districts outside the capital region. Prior consultation with the Ministry of SMEs and Startups will be mandatory during the designation process, and post-management will be strengthened so that designations can be revoked if obtained through false or fraudulent means.

[This article was written based on South Korean policy briefing materials provided. Details such as the timing of benefit application, eligibility, and refund conditions should be confirmed through official guidance. AI was used for some sentences and data organization.]