Financial Policies for Single-Person Household Housing in South Korea

Abstract

We investigated the determinants of awareness, utilization, and satisfaction regarding financial aid programs for single-person households in South Korea and proposed policy enhancements. Our analysis employed logistic regression on microdata from the “2020 Housing Survey” by Statistics Korea, covering the nation and all age groups. We categorized single-person household traits affecting program awareness, utilization, and satisfaction into demographic, socio-economic, housing, and housing perception factors. The dependent variables included awareness, utilization status, and satisfaction levels of government-sponsored financial support programs, which were measured on a four-point Likert scale. The independent variables encompassed demographic, socio-economic, and housing characteristics, which were analyzed comprehensively. We identified factors that influenced awareness, utilization, and satisfaction and recommended tailored policy measures. The findings revealed lower awareness among elderly individuals, women, rural residents, and rental households. Moreover, older age, lower income, rental, and one-room dwelling households exhibited lower utilization rates, with decreased housing and residential environment satisfaction correlating with diminished program satisfaction. Due to the diverse characteristics of single-person households, strategic interventions are crucial. Measures to bridge information gaps, establish comprehensive long-term support systems, and develop differentiated policies tailored to single-person household traits are imperative for improving financial aid programs for this demographic.