I read an article saying that a soldier who lost his ankle in a landmine accident in the DMZ will receive about 80 million won in compensation. Even if they gave him 8 billion won, could that ever truly heal his wounds? If we were to just gather the tax money that is wasted across the country, we could securely guarantee the lives of these victims. Economic development is only possible in a secure nation. A characteristic of poor countries is that their national security is also a mess.

In South Korea, where even frauds masquerade as nationalmerit recipients, those who are injured, pass away, or die in the line of duty for their country should have 100% of their lives guaranteed. Shouldn't we provide them with regular payments equivalent to or exceeding their salary for life, or even extend benefits to their children? When a healthy father suddenly becomes disabled and has to walk with crutches or sit in a wheelchair, how much despair and suffering must his children endure as well?

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]