Seoul: Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung has announced a commitment to expand benefits for military conscripts as part of a broader strategy to engage the youth demographic in South Korea. This initiative forms a crucial aspect of Lee’s campaign to address issues pertinent to young people, particularly targeting younger male voters.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee’s proposals include a variety of measures aimed at improving employment, housing, education, and investment opportunities for the youth. Highlighting his vision, Lee stated, “I will create a nation where young people have opportunities and hope,” through a message on Facebook.

One of the significant promises made by Lee is the incorporation of military service years into the salary grade calculations for employees in public institutions. Additionally, he aims to expand national pension credits to fully cover the duration of military service, acknowledging the mandatory commitment that all able-bodied South Korean men must serve for at least 18 months.

In a move to enhance investment opportunities, Lee also outlined plans to introduce exchange-traded funds (ETFs) linked to spot cryptocurrencies. Furthermore, he intends to establish an integrated market monitoring system, aimed at fostering a safer environment for digital asset investments.