Mandatory Donation

What we call a tax here in the United States, South Korea 's Foreign Ministry uses another term.

Starting late next month, passengers on international flights taking off in Korea will be required to donate W1,000 for the global fight against poverty (US$1=W938). The donation will be automatically added to the ticket price. The Foreign Ministry said international flight passengers will have to make the contribution as the Korea International Cooperation Agency Act goes into effect on Sept. 30. But Korean children adopted in foreign countries and their patrons, children under two, flight crew and diplomats will be exempt from the mandatory donation.

Sounds like a tax to me. Actually exit or travel taxes aren't uncommon in Asia. The Philippines requires one to be paid by those exiting the country on airplanes. It is paid at the airport.

I wouldn't be surprised if the United States enacted a similar practice one day. What will we name it? The get lost tax?(Sarcastic laughter time)

Hat tip- Marmot's Hole
Linked to- Conservative Thoughts, Leaning Straight Up, Morewhat, Webloggin,