Seoul: Hair loss insurance has moved into the policy spotlight in South Korea after President Lee Jae Myung has instructed the government to examine whether treatment for baldness should be covered under the country’s public health system.
Lee has argued that hair loss has become a ‘matter of survival’ for young people, citing the psychological and social pressure faced during job searches and social interactions.
South Korea operates a universal health insurance system funded through income-based premiums. At present, coverage applies only to medically caused hair loss such as alopecia areata. Common male pattern baldness and cosmetic treatments remain excluded, meaning patients must pay out of pocket.
Lee has said that younger contributors to the system may feel alienated when premiums are deducted without access to benefits they consider meaningful. Although the president had raised similar ideas during the 2022 election campaign, the issue was later dropped and has now resurfaced following a recent policy briefing.
The proposal has underscored South Korea’s intense focus on physical appearance. A 2024 survey found that 98 percent of young adults believe attractive people gain social advantages. While appearance pressures are often discussed in relation to women, men experiencing hair loss also face stigma, leading many to pursue costly treatments or conceal thinning hair.
The domestic market for hair-loss treatments was estimated at around 188 billion won (£95m) in 2024. Industry groups claim nearly 10 million people experience hair loss, though no official verification exists. Shampoos and topical treatments remain popular despite questions over effectiveness.
Medical professionals have expressed concern about expanding hair loss insurance while the health system faces financial strain. Projections indicate potential deficits of up to 4.1 trillion won (£2.1bn) by 2026. The Korean Medical Association has argued that limited funds should prioritise cancer care and life-threatening conditions.
Health minister Jeong Eun Kyeong has urged caution, stating that any expansion would require detailed financial analysis. Conservative newspapers have criticised the timing and process, questioning whether public opinion has been sufficiently considered. Supporters within the ruling party have defended the discussion, framing hair loss as a mental health issue tied to confidence and employability rather than vanity.
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