South Korea Supreme Court Recognizes Health Insurance Rights for Same-Sex Couples

South Korea’s Supreme Court delivered a landmark ruling Thursday, granting new rights to same-sex couples by mandating that the National Health Insurance must provide spousal coverage for gay partners. The decision, which cannot be appealed, allows common-law spouses of the same sex to register as dependents on their partners’ health insurance policies. This ruling follows a legal challenge initiated by a gay couple, underscoring ongoing debates over LGBTQ rights in a society where same-sex marriage remains unrecognized. While hailed as a victory for equality, activists emphasize the need for broader anti-discrimination laws to ensure full rights for all citizens.