Social Insurance of the Republic of Korea 2026

Published on July 6, 2026
Published by Social Cost Estimates Division


 

   Social insurance is a key pillar of social security that protects people against social risks such as old age, illness, unemployment, and occupational accidents. Korea operates eight major social insurance programs to protect people against income loss and excessive medical expenses arising from such risks.
   Since 2024, the National Assembly Budget Office has published the annual report tilted Social Insurance of the Republic of Korea, which provides an overview of the structure and operational status of the nation’s eight social insurance programs. The 2026 edition of this report is designed to present a systematic overview of social insurance, including its institutional framework, current status, and the latest statistical indicators. Part I, “Understanding Social Insurance,” outlines the concept and operating principles of social insurance, the structure and characteristics of the social insurance system, and the evolution of relevant programs. Parts II and III divide the eight programs into the four major public pension schemes and the other four major social insurance programs, respectively. For each program, the report describes its operational framework, coverage (eligibility), benefit structure, and financial structure. It also presents key statistics, including the number of insured persons and beneficiaries and the program’s financial position.