Considering 100,000 to 200,000 Won of Subsidy for Mt. Kumgang Tour

On the 23rd, the government announced its plan to attract tourists to Mt. Kumgang as it allowed the Korean National Tourism Organization (KNTO) to delay the interest redemption of the Intra-Korean Cooperation Fund loans.

The government also prepared other supportive measures such as subsidies for tours of separated families, students, and teachers, as well as permits for a tax-free shop in the local area.

However, the opposition party is requesting a parliamentary investigation, insisting that citizens must approve the government’s guidelines for Mt. Kumgang tourism.

The government will specify the details for easing KNTO loan conditions first, and the allowance of a foreign-goods store after discussing with the National Assembly and experts by next week.

It is also examining a subsidy-policy for Mr. Kumgang tourism as to provide 200,000 won for a first generation separated family, and approximately 100,000 won for students in school excursions. Considering the possibility of public opposition, the policy is to be thoroughly discussed and its finalization might consequently be somewhat delayed.

Exchange and cooperation director at the Ministry of Unification Cho Myung-Kyun said, "Mt. Kumgang tourism is an important means for `peace- business` that connects South and North Koreas, and the government will seek supportive measures for the tour business to continue." He added that `The government is considering a conference between the two Koreas to obtain corresponding measures including the North’s ground tour route`.

KNTO received the 90 billion won loan approval from the government, and borrowed 45 billion won last June, paying 1.8 billion won (4 Per Cent interest rate) of interest every year.

However, Chong Wa Dae authorities clarified that "The government certainly has no intention of taking charge of the Mt. Kumgang tourism business." against Unification minister Hong Soon-Young’s utterance that the government should take up the business in long run.

Meanwhile, Grand National Party coordination director Lee Kang-Doo said, "If the government does not go through clear procedures and push the Mt. Kumgang business, a measure to force Intra-Korean Cooperation Fund to require the Assembly’s approval will be prepared."

spear@donga.com