After being frozen for two consecutive years, health insurance premiums will increase in 2026, marking the first rise in three years. Employed subscribers will pay an average of 2,235 won more per month, while self-employed subscribers will see an increase of 1,280 won.
According to industry sources on August 29, the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s Health Insurance Policy Review Committee approved a 1.48% increase in the health insurance premium rate, raising it from 7.09% to 7.19%. Earlier, the ministry had proposed a roughly 2% increase to the State Affairs Planning Committee, but the final decision was moderated.
Historically, health insurance premium rates have increased almost every year since 2010. However, they were frozen in 2024 and 2025 to ease the financial burden on citizens. While some experts suggested maintaining the freeze this year, officials cited growing medical costs from an aging population and the expansion of essential and public healthcare as reasons to implement the increase.
Second Vice Minister of Health and Welfare Lee Hyung-hoon stated, “Providers, subscribers, and public interest groups formed a consensus on an appropriate increase, allowing us to reach agreement on the rate.”
Despite public opposition—a survey by the Korea Enterprises Federation indicated that 8 out of 10 citizens preferred a freeze or reduction—the government decided the rise was necessary. Vice Minister Lee added that the increase aligns with plans to strengthen coverage for nursing care, severe illnesses, and rare diseases, which are placing growing financial pressure on households.
The premium hike reflects the government’s effort to prepare for rising medical expenses due to demographic changes while enhancing health insurance benefits for citizens.
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