직장어린이집 설치비 지원 의무운영기간 경감 방안 연구

Abstract

This study aims to examine the appropriateness of the mandatory operation period imposed on workplace childcare centers that receive government subsidies for installation costs, and to explore feasible policy alternatives for its reduction. Under the current “Regulation on the Establishment and Operation of Workplace Childcare Centers,” employers receiving subsidies are required to operate for 5 years (1,855 days) when the subsidy is less than 1 billion KRW, and 7 years (2,585 days) when it exceeds 1 billion KRW. However, this regulation has been criticized as an excessive burden, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), thereby acting as a barrier to the expansion of workplace childcare facilities 1.The study employed multiple methodologies, including literature review, focus group interviews (FGIs) with childcare managers, a survey of 331 enterprises operating workplace childcare centers, expert consultations, and policy practice meetings with the Ministry of Employment and Labor. Findings indicate that, as of 2024, there are 1,305 workplace childcare centers nationwide (4.8% of all childcare centers), yet their average enrollment rate remains low at 63.1%. Operators reported significant challenges, such as financial and labor cost burdens, difficulties in maintaining adequate enrollment, and heavy administrative workloads. Survey and interview results revealed widespread perceptions that the 7-year obligation is excessive, while a 5-year requirement was generally viewed as acceptable. Respondents also emphasized the need to reduce initial installation subsidies while strengthening ongoing support for operating and labor costs 1.A legal and institutional review confirmed that shortening the mandatory operation period would not conflict with higher-level legislation, and that an amendment to the ministerial regulation alone would suffice. Experts recommended a 1–2 year reduction in consideration of consistency with other subsidy management guidelines. Accordingly, the study proposes three main alternatives: reducing the 7-year obligation to 6 years; unifying the mandatory period to 5 years regardless of subsidy amount; or maintaining 7 years while introducing a phased reduction of repayment obligations after 3 years of operation. Complementary measures, such as restructuring subsidy schemes, increasing support for operating and personnel costs, and relaxing extension rules for facility maintenance subsidies, were also suggested 1.In conclusion, reforming the mandatory operation period for subsidized workplace-childcare centers is both legally viable and practically necessary. Such adjustments are expected to reduce burdens on enterprises, encourage broader participation in workplace childcare provision, and ultimately contribute to the revitalization of childcare services that support the reconciliation of work and family life.