J Korean Med Sci.  2012 May;27(Suppl):S3-S6. 10.3346/jkms.2012.27.S.S3.

Light and Shadows of the Korean Healthcare System

• Moon TJ

• KMID: 1714481
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3346/jkms.2012.27.S.S3

Abstract

This article reviewed achievements and challenges of the National Health Insurance of the Republic of Korea and shared thoughts on its future directions. Starting with large workplaces of 500 or more employees in 1977, Korea's National Health Insurance successfully achieved universal coverage within just 12 yr in 1989. This amazing pace of growth was possible due to a positive combination of strong political will and rapid economic growth. Key features of Korea's experience in achieving universal coverage include 1) gradual expansion of coverage, 2) careful consideration to maintain sound insurance finances, and 3) introducing multiple health insurance societies (multiple payer system) at the initial stage. Introduction of the health insurance has dramatically improved Korea's health indicators and has fueled the rapid growth of basic medical infrastructure including medical institutions and professionals. On the other hand, the successful expansion was not free from side-effects. Although coverage has gradually expanded, benefits are still relatively low. The current situation warrants concern because coverage expansion is driven by welfare populism asserted by irresponsible political slogans and lacks a social consensus on basic principles and philosophy regarding the expansion. Concentration of patients to a few large prestigious hospitals as well as the inefficiencies resulting from a colossal single-payer system should also be pointed out.

Keyword

Korea; Health Insurance

MeSH Terms

Delivery of Health Care/*economics
Humans
National Health Programs/*economics
Republic of Korea
Social Welfare

Reference

1. Choi WY. The Achievements of 30 Years of Korean National Health Insurance: NICH Health Insurance Forum. National Health Statistical Yearbook. No.2. 2007. Seoul: National Health Insurance Corporation.

2. Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. OECD Health Data 2009: Statistics and Indicators for 30 Countries. 2008. Paris: OECD.

3. National Health Insurance Corporation. Research on health insurance expenditure of the insured 2008. 2010. Seoul: