Finance minister praises disability group's suspension of subway protests

South Korean Finance Minister Park Yun-ju has lauded the National Federation of Persons with Disabilities (KODPA) for its decision to halt its subway occupation protests, describing it as a move that will facilitate a more profound integration of disability-related issues into government policy. The minister expressed his sincere welcome to the decision, which he believes will allow for a deeper incorporation of the voices of people with disabilities into policy-making.

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Today, KODPA responded to that request, and I highly commend that decision.

Minister Park had directly engaged with KODPA representative Park Kyung-seok on August 19, urging an end to the protests that had been causing significant disruption to commuters during rush hour. "Today, KODPA responded to that request, and I highly commend that decision," Park stated on his Facebook page on August 24. Following the suspension, a KODPA delegation met with the Ministry of Economy and Finance to convey their demands regarding disability policies and budgets.

In response to KODPA's demands, Minister Park assured that the ministry would carefully consider the issues raised, stating, "We will listen attentively to the voices from the field, but individual policies and budgets will be reviewed responsibly based on necessity, effectiveness, law and system, and financial principles." He emphasized that the government has consistently adhered to these principles in its budget-related decisions and will continue to do so.

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We will listen attentively to the voices from the field, but individual policies and budgets will be reviewed responsibly based on necessity, effectiveness, law and system, and financial principles.

Despite the cautious approach to budget allocation, Minister Park reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to enhancing policies that support the rights and welfare of individuals with disabilities. He specifically mentioned plans to explore increased national support for improving the operation of specialized transportation services for the disabled, including the expansion of drivers. Regarding employment for severely disabled individuals, Park indicated that the ministry is researching and developing new job models that are community-led and actively involve persons with disabilities, aiming to create sustainable employment opportunities. "We will also further strengthen the nation's responsibility and support to enable people with disabilities to live independently and together in the community," he added.

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We will also further strengthen the nation's responsibility and support to enable people with disabilities to live independently and together in the community.