Hair loss and baldness "matter of survival"; Government launches national health insurance to cover treatments

SEOUL: Hair loss is something majority worries about. It can completely destroy a person's self-confidence. The government does not consider hair loss a serious health problem. However, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has described hair loss and baldness as a "matter of survival."

The President also recommended that medical treatments for hair loss be included in the National Health Insurance Scheme. He made the request at a meeting of senior government officials. Lee Jae-myung also argued that hair loss treatments should not be considered cosmetic procedures.

South Korea's national health insurance system currently covers hair loss treatments that are caused by medical conditions, such as cancer treatment side effects or immune system disorders like alopecia areata. However, people with hair loss due to genetics and other reasons are not eligible for this benefit, since they are not life-threatening.

South Korea is known for its strict beauty standards. Korean beauty standards prioritise maintaining a youthful appearance, rather than looking mature. It is estimated that 240,000 people visited hospitals in the country last year for hair loss treatment. In any case, the debate in the country continues for and against Myung's recommendation.