The South Korean government is moving to gradually introduce abortion medication for women up to nine weeks pregnant. For the first two years, prescriptions and dispensing will be handled exclusively by hospitals, with plans to expand to pharmacies once the necessary conditions are met.
During the 14th National Policy Coordination Meeting held at the Government Seoul Complex on September 16, Prime Minister Han Seong-sook stated, "Since the Constitutional Court's decision in 2019 to declare the abortion law unconstitutional, a regulatory gap has persisted, leading some women to rely on dangerous methods."
The government aims to ensure that women who have been exposed to illegally distributed medications can receive care within a safe medical framework, and will work with relevant agencies to establish the necessary regulations for the introduction of the medication.
Prime Minister Han emphasized, "Allowing the issue to remain unresolved amid ongoing debates is ultimately neglecting the lives and safety of the public. We must ensure that women in need do not have to rely on unverified methods and can receive care within a safe medical system."
She clarified, "This is not about promoting abortion but about protecting public health," acknowledging the serious concerns regarding the value of life.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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