Industrial Park Workers’ 1,000-Won Breakfast Pilot Program / 1000-won breakfast in korea policy

💡 Quick Summary: Starting in October 2024, employees at selected industrial parks will enjoy a 1000-won breakfast. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) will support pilot projects at up to 17 sites, with applications open until September 17.

The popular 1000-won breakfast program, which has already benefited university students, will expand to include industrial park workers. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) announced that the “Pilot Project for Industrial Park Workers’ 1000-Won Breakfast” will be implemented from October to December 2024. Through this initiative, workers will only pay 1,000 KRW for a nutritious breakfast, with the remaining costs shared by the government, local governments, and participating companies. The program aims to improve workers’ health, strengthen productivity, and promote rice consumption nationwide.

Why the 1000-Won Breakfast Program Matters

Industrial park workers often face limited access to affordable meals. Many parks are located far from city centers, making restaurants scarce, and small or medium-sized enterprises cannot afford to operate in-house cafeterias. As a result, many workers skip breakfast. The 1000-won breakfast program directly addresses this issue, ensuring employees start their day with a proper meal while also boosting domestic rice consumption.

Overview of the Pilot Project

MAFRA will select up to 17 industrial parks nationwide for the pilot run. Companies or business associations within the parks may apply until September 17. Once selected, the program will operate from October through December 2024. The government will subsidize 2,000 KRW per meal, leaving workers to pay only 1,000 KRW, while local governments and companies cover the balance.

Support Methods and Priority Criteria

1) Priority for Joint Cafeterias

Industrial park associations operating joint cafeterias will be prioritized to ensure broader participation among workers.

2) Preference for Non-Breakfast Companies

Companies that previously did not offer breakfast service will receive additional evaluation points, in line with the program’s mission to expand morning meal culture.

3) Flexible Supply Options

Beyond in-house cafeterias, catering services and delivery options may also be utilized depending on each park’s conditions.

How to Apply

Interested companies or associations within industrial parks must submit application forms via email to the Korea Agency of Education, Promotion and Information Service in Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (EPIS) at audgh1730@epis.or.kr by September 17. Application guidelines and templates are available on the EPIS website.

External References

Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) · EPIS Official Website

FAQ: 1000-Won Breakfast

1) Who is eligible for the 1000-won breakfast?

Industrial park workers are eligible, following the program’s initial success with university students.

2) When will the program be implemented?

The pilot project runs from October through December 2024.

3) How much do workers actually pay?

Workers pay only 1,000 KRW per breakfast, with the rest subsidized by government and other partners.

4) How can companies apply?

Applications must be submitted by September 17 via email to EPIS, as detailed in the public notice.

5) How will the meals be provided?

Meals may be offered through cafeterias, catering, or delivery services depending on park conditions.

Summary

The 1000-won breakfast pilot project supports industrial park workers by offering healthy meals at minimal cost. Up to 17 parks will participate, with subsidies covering the majority of meal expenses. Beyond improving worker welfare, the program promotes rice consumption and contributes to social and economic well-being.

Conclusion

The 1000-won breakfast program is more than an affordable meal—it is a policy aimed at improving worker health, boosting productivity, and supporting Korea’s agricultural economy. By expanding beyond universities to industrial parks, the initiative takes a major step toward broader social inclusion and food security. Workers and companies alike should take advantage of this pilot project to build healthier, more sustainable workplace environments.

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