[Graphic News] Temporary holiday causes surge in spending

The government’s decision to designate May 6 as a temporary holiday, which allowed people four days off in a row last week, led to boosts in spending on shopping, traveling and leisure.

Sales in department stores increased 16 percent during May 5-8 this year compared to last year’s holiday from May 2-5. Meanwhile, the number of visitors to baseball parks also surged 43.9 percent over the same period.

As part of efforts to spur domestic consumption, the government had waived highway tolls across the country. Major palaces and other tourist sites were also open to the public for free.