Don't Miss the Sangsaeng Payback Deadline This Month

Overview of the Sangsaeng Payback Program

The Sangsaeng Payback program, launched by the government to stimulate domestic consumption, is nearing its conclusion this month. As consumers approach the end of the initiative, many are expressing interest in understanding how the disbursement works, how long the benefits will last, and where they can use the funds.

Individuals who have benefited from the program share their experiences. One user mentioned that they received 100,000 Korean won each for October and November after applying due to alerts from their card company. They noted that they had not received much government support before, so this was a welcome addition.

Another person shared their surprise at receiving a KakaoTalk alert about the disbursement of 100,000 Korean won through the Sangsaeng Payback. They asked how long the money would be available, showing the curiosity among participants about the program's timeline.

How the Program Works

The Sangsaeng Payback provides digital Onnuri gift certificates worth up to 300,000 Korean won—100,000 Korean won per month—to individuals whose credit or check card spending from September to November exceeds their monthly average from last year. This temporary policy, which is only active this year, involves a total investment of 1.37 trillion Korean won to boost spending.

To be eligible, participants must have spent more on their cards during the three months compared to their average from the previous year. A refund of 20% of the excess spending, up to 100,000 Korean won per month (300,000 Korean won over three months), is provided as digital Onnuri gift certificates.

For example, if someone spent 2.5 million Korean won in September and their average from last year was 2 million Korean won, they would receive a refund of 100,000 Korean won. However, certain sectors such as large supermarkets, department stores, duty-free shops, online shopping malls, delivery apps, and large hospitals are excluded from the program.

Application Process and Usage

Applications for the Sangsaeng Payback can be made on the official website (https://상생페이백.kr). No membership registration is required; users can log in via simple authentication or a public certificate for easy access. Once applied, all domestic credit and check card spending amounts are automatically aggregated. A single application by the end of this month will also retroactively disburse paybacks for September and October.

Since November’s card spending can be checked in real time, it is easier to plan consumption. Those planning to spend a large amount in December may choose to bring forward their spending to this month. However, to ensure that the spending is recognized, it must occur at a Sangsaeng Payback-designated merchant. Most academies are included, allowing parents preparing for winter vacation education costs to plan strategically.

Benefits and Limitations

The digital Onnuri gift certificates provided by the government have limited usage at traditional markets and small businesses, but their validity period is generous at five years. After installing the digital Onnuri gift certificate app and registering a card, the payback amount is automatically deducted upon use.

One company worker, who received gift certificates worth 200,000 Korean won for two consecutive months from September to October, shared their experience. They mentioned that due to reduced card spending last year because of a leave of absence, they were able to enjoy the Sangsaeng Payback benefits despite similar usual consumption. They added that they are making good use of the certificates at Namdaemun pharmacies and local markets.