Onnuri Gift Certificate Merchant Rules Tightened, Illegal Distribution Penalties Increased

Starting from the 17th, the usage scope of Onnuri Gift Certificates will be revamped to focus on small and medium-sized merchants. Stores with direct previous fiscal year sales or Onnuri Gift Certificate exchange amounts exceeding 3 billion won will no longer be eligible for merchant registration. Restricted sectors also include healthcare, veterinary services, accounting, tax, and legal services, as well as entertainment and amusement facility management and operation.

Sanctions for illegal distribution of gift certificates will also be strengthened. Those caught exchanging gift certificates without actual goods or services transactions will face penalties of up to three times the illicit profits gained.

Merchants whose certificates are set to expire this October must apply for renewal between three months and ten days prior to the expiration date. Renewal applications can be submitted online via the Onnuri Gift Certificate merchant platform, in person at the Jeonbuk Small & Medium Business Administration, or by mail and fax. Required documents for renewal include the renewal application form, business registration certificate, and the 2025 Value Added Tax Taxable Income Certificate (or the Certificate of Revenue for Tax-Exempt Businesses).

Jang Sang-man, head of the Jeonbuk Small & Medium Business Administration, stated that this revision is expected to contribute to substantial sales growth for small merchants and revitalize local economies through Onnuri Gift Certificates.