- The number of eligible diseases has increased from 1,272 to 1,338 with the addition of 66 new diseases.

- Household income eligibility limits have been unified and raised to 140% of the median income for both adults and children (previously 120% for adults and 130% for children).

-Simplified documentation requirements and expanded submission options improve accessibility.


Osong, 20th January 2025 – The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has announced a significant expansion of the Rare Disease Medical Expenses Support Program for 2025, bringing increased support to patients with rare diseases and their families. The updates include expanding the list of eligible diseases, easing income eligibility requirements, and improving the application process.

The Rare Disease Medical Expenses Support Program aims to alleviate the financial burden on patients with rare diseases and their families by covering co-payments* for low-income national health insurance subscribers who meet specific income and property criteria and are registered under the special health insurance co-payment calculation system.

*Co-payments include medical expenses and other special costs, such as expenses for special diets and caregiving.

This year, the number of rare diseases covered under the program has increased from 1,272 to 1,338, with the addition of 66 new diseases. Last year, the program included 1,248 rare diseases alongside 24 rare incurable diseases. With the expansion, eligible patients can receive medical treatments covered by medical care benefits without co-payments*, significantly reducing their financial strain.

* 90% of medical expenses are covered under the special health insurance co-payment calculation system (supported by the national health insurance), and the remaining 10% is covered by the Rare Disease Medical Expenses Support Program (supported by the government).


* Please refer to the attached file.