• Korean Journal of Social Welfare
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• v.50
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• pp.33-59
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• 2002

This study aims to provide policy suggestions by examining the perception and attitude of Koreans toward the welfare rights. The study was done through a telephone survey conducted by an opinion research institute on 2,050 respondents in 16 cities and provinces. The results are as follows. First, a majority of Koreans responded that the primary responsibility for welfare rests with the government and perceived their welfare receipt rights in a positive way. Respondents also showed an assertive attitude toward exercising their rights by stating that they intend to file a demurrer or participate in civic activities. Second, in terms of duty performance, most respondents showed different positions concerning tax hike and insurance rate increase, although they showed a stronger opposition to an increase in insurance fee. In addition, 90% of the respondents were in favor of building welfare institutions in the residential area and an overwhelming proportion of the respondents indicated that they would take an active part in welfare development by regularly paying taxes and volunteering. Third, the respondents gave a very negative rating to Koreas welfare system and its overall level. That is, people thought that the level of Koreas welfare system is on a par with that in developing or underdeveloped countries, and that the welfare system benefits no one or only the rich. People generally felt that there was not one proper welfare institution. In conclusion, the study found that Koreans have keen awareness of their welfare rights and proactive attitude toward welfare development, whereas negative viewpoint toward tax and insurance fee increases. This may stem from peoples distrust of government welfare policies and the existing welfare system. This study suggests that welfare policy is an important factor in determining peoples political attitude. Therefore, government authorities must recognize people not as passive receivers of welfare benefit but as active policy partners, and establish policies that reflect peoples high welfare rights perception and willingness to take part in welfare development.