Tesla Korea’s decision to raise electric vehicle (EV) prices shortly after qualifying for the government subsidy program has sparked calls for tougher safeguards to prevent automakers from exploiting public incentives and undermining their intended purpose. Critics argue that carmakers receiving subsidies should be required to maintain stable pricing for a certain period to ensure that taxpayer-funded benefits reach consumers instead of boosting corporate profits. The controversy erupted Wednesday after Tesla Korea increased its prices across several models. A day earlier, the government announced the automakers and models eligible for this year's EV subsidy program. The Model 3 Long Range increased by 7 million won ($4,575), while prices for other models rose by about 3 million won to 5 million won. The timing triggered an immediate public backlash with consumers criticizing Tesla for raising prices as soon as subsidy eligibility was confirmed. This year’s subsidy program evaluates manufacturers on a broad range of criteria, including technological competitiveness, contributions to