The plan is intended to lead to more freelance jobs in professions related to communications, finance, counsulting, education, health guidance, and recreation in the next five years. Examples include freelance translators and computer software designers. To meet this goal the government will offer tax cuts and legal assistance, as well as provide more startup support. Those who start businesses in the capital region will get a 50-percent cut in both their income and corporate taxes.

The administration says this is because the area has high taxes and a shortage of manpower. The government also will create business support centers at provincial administration offices.

The plan aims to increase the quality of human resources and offer wider opportunities to those who are looking for a place to work. Housewives with high academic degrees will also have a new chance to utilize their professional skills through freelancing.

The number of professional freelancers in Korea has seen steady growth of more than 4 percent during each of the past four years to more than 480,000 at present.

And the administration says more freelancers give small and mid-sized businesses more flexibility in sourcing labor.

But labor advocates point out that an increase in freelance and temporary jobs means a decrease in more stable employment.

Arirang News