South Korea’s Top Court Grants Same-Sex Couples Equal Health Insurance Benefits

In a groundbreaking decision, South Korea’s top court has ruled that same-sex couples are now eligible to receive the same health insurance benefits as heterosexual couples. The Supreme Court deemed the state health insurance agency’s refusal to provide spousal insurance coverage for gay couples as an act of discrimination that goes against the constitutional principle of equality.

This landmark verdict, which cannot be appealed, has been praised by human rights groups, with Amnesty International calling it a “historic victory for equality and human rights in South Korea.” The ruling came after a legal battle initiated by a gay couple, So Seong-wook and Kim Yong-min, challenging the National Health Insurance Service’s decision to revoke So’s registration as a dependent of Kim.

The Seoul High Court overturned an earlier ruling in February 2023, stating that denying So’s spousal coverage rights without reasonable grounds was discriminatory. While South Korea doesn’t legally recognize same-sex marriages, this decision is seen as a significant step towards inclusivity and dismantling systemic discrimination.

So and Kim, the couple at the center of the case, welcomed the ruling with open arms. So expressed his emotions, saying, “When I listened to the verdict, I was so moved that I couldn’t hold back my tears.” He hopes that this ruling will pave the way for South Korea to legally accept same-sex marriages. Kim echoed his partner’s sentiments, stating that he is “very happy” because he believes the court recognized their love.

Despite this progress, critics point out that South Korea still has a long way to go compared to other developed countries in terms of gender issues. Amnesty International emphasized the lengthy judicial processes that same-sex couples must endure to secure basic rights that should be universally guaranteed.

As South Korea navigates this cultural shift, the ruling sets a precedent for further advancements in LGBTQ+ rights and representation in the country.