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SEOUL – The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family (MGEF) announced on Friday a significant expansion and simplification of its menstrual product support program for low-income female youth, effective from 2026. This move comes shortly after President Lee Jae-myung raised concerns regarding the high cost of sanitary products in the domestic market.

Full Annual Subsidy Regardless of Application Date
Under the current system, eligible female youth aged 9 to 24—including those from households receiving basic livelihood benefits, near-poverty groups, and single-parent families—received monthly vouchers of 14,000 KRW starting only from the month they applied.

However, starting in 2026, the ministry will provide the full annual amount of 168,000 KRW to all applicants within a given year, regardless of when they register. This adjustment aims to eliminate the financial disadvantage faced by those who apply later in the calendar year, ensuring equitable access to essential hygiene products for all vulnerable youth.

Streamlined Application via "One-Stop" Card Issuance
The ministry is also simplifying the bureaucratic process. Currently, applicants must visit a community center or use the "Bokjiro" portal to apply for the voucher and then separately contact a credit card company to issue a "National Happiness Card" to use the funds.

From 2026, a "one-stop" system will be implemented. By simply agreeing to provide personal information during the initial application, a card issuer will automatically process and deliver the physical card after a brief verification call. This reduces the burden on young people and their guardians, who can apply via local administrative centers, the Bokjiro website, or its mobile app.

Presidential Concern Over High Prices
The policy overhaul follows recent remarks by President Lee Jae-myung. During a briefing with the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) on December 19, the President pointed out the high cost of sanitary pads in South Korea, stating, "I heard that sanitary pads in our country are remarkably expensive," and requested a thorough investigation into the matter.

In response, the FTC has begun collecting data from major manufacturers to determine if the high prices are a result of price-fixing, market collusion, or abuse of dominant market positions.

"By simplifying the application process and ensuring full annual funding, we expect to significantly improve convenience and provide more substantial benefits to those in need," said Won Min-kyung, Minister of Gender Equality and Family. "This is a crucial step in safeguarding the health rights of our female youth."