Prime Minister Han: "Discussing Gradual Introduction of Abortion Medication for Pregnancies Up to Nine Weeks"

Prime Minister Hansung Sook stated on the 16th, "We will discuss a plan to gradually introduce abortion medication for pregnancies of nine weeks or less."

Prime Minister Hansung Sook attends the National Policy Coordination Meeting held at the Government Seoul Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the 16th, making remarks regarding the introduction of abortion medication. 2026.9.16 Photo by Jo Yongjun

At the 14th National Policy Coordination Meeting held at the Government Seoul Office that day, Prime Minister Han said, "Since the Constitutional Court’s nonconformity ruling on abortion laws in 2019, there is still an institutional void, and as a result, some women are relying on dangerous methods. We can no longer leave this issue unaddressed amid ongoing debates," she said.

The government is currently reviewing a plan to authorize abortion medication that has been distributed illegally so far. Most notably, 'Mifegyne,' which women’s organizations have long demanded to be introduced, is expected to be included in the review process.

Prime Minister Han explained, "For the first two years, both prescribing and dispensing will take place at hospitals. After the necessary conditions are established, it will then transition and expand to a system where physicians prescribe and pharmacies dispense the medication." She added, "We will also make all necessary legislative and institutional adjustments without delay." Emphasizing that "safety is the most important factor," she said, "We must ensure that women who need the medication do not have to rely on unverified means and that they can receive treatment within a safe medical system."

She also stated, "We are taking concerns about the value of life very seriously. Rather than encouraging abortion, this measure seeks to protect public health. I ask for your broad understanding of this intention."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.