South Korea’s Supreme Court has issued a landmark ruling stating that same-sex couples are entitled to the same health insurance benefits as heterosexual couples. This decision, announced on Thursday, addresses a dispute between a gay couple and the National Health Insurance Service, which had previously denied spousal coverage to the couple.
The case began when So Seong-wook and Kim Yong-min challenged the National Health Insurance Service after the agency revoked So’s status as a dependent of Kim. The Seoul Administrative Court initially sided with the insurance agency in 2022. However, in February 2023, the Seoul High Court overturned this decision, citing that the denial of spousal coverage to So was discriminatory, as heterosexual couples receive similar benefits.
Amnesty International has praised the ruling as a significant victory for equality and human rights in South Korea. The organization highlighted the decision as a major step towards combating systemic discrimination and fostering inclusivity. However, the ruling does not extend to the legal recognition of same-sex marriages in South Korea, which remains unrecognized.
Public opinion on gender issues in South Korea has been gradually evolving, but critics argue that the country still has considerable progress to make compared to other developed nations. The ruling reflects ongoing legal and social challenges faced by same-sex couples in the country.
So and Kim expressed their emotional reactions to the verdict, with So stating that he was moved to tears upon hearing the decision. Both hope that the ruling will pave the way for broader legal recognition of same-sex marriages in South Korea.
National Broadcasting Company:
In landmark verdict, South Korea’s top court recognizes some rights for same-sex couples
Fox Broadcasting Company:
South Korea’s top court issues landmark ruling recognizing some rights for same-sex couples