South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare clarified on Friday that it has not finalized health insurance coverage for youth hair loss treatment. The ministry emphasized the need for thorough social discourse to evaluate medical necessity and cost-effectiveness before deciding on potential health insurance support.
The debate over insurance coverage for hair loss treatment gained traction after President Lee Jae Myung broached the subject during a ministry briefing last December. Lee noted that while hair loss was once viewed as a cosmetic concern, it’s increasingly seen as a survival issue, prompting him to call for a review.
Subsequently, medical professionals and others argued that coverage for severe illnesses should take priority over hair loss treatment. In February, President Lee suggested that instead of an immediate decision, the matter should be opened up for public debate. The ministry’s recent statement appears to underscore the need for internal review and social consensus before any action is taken.
Currently, health insurance only covers treatment for alopecia areata. For other hair loss treatments, including oral medications, injections, and certain therapy programs, patients must bear the full cost as these are classified as non-covered items under the health insurance system.