{"content_id":"sd0krx8ih1","slug":"2026-2027-korea-free-flu-vaccination-schedule","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"policy_guide","category_name":"Policy Guide","title":"2026–2027 Free Flu Vaccination Eligibility and Start Dates by Birth Year","summary":"Starting with the 2026–2027 season, the national influenza vaccination program for children will expand to include those through age 14. Exact birth date and age-in-months criteria should be checked on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website. Free vaccination start dates vary according to the child’s required number of doses and birth date, pregnancy status, and age group for adults aged 65 and older.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"OnBinder Editorial Team","url":"https://onbinder.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["Eligibility for free vaccination has been expanded to include children through age 14. Exact birth date and age-in-months criteria should be checked on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website.","Children requiring two doses and pregnant women can be vaccinated starting September 21, 2026, while children requiring one dose can be vaccinated starting September 28.","Start dates vary by age group for adults aged 65 and older, so the official schedule should be checked on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website.","Eligible individuals can receive free vaccinations at participating designated medical institutions or public health centers that provide vaccinations, regardless of their registered address.","Participation by designated medical institutions and vaccine inventories may vary, so vaccination availability should be confirmed before visiting."],"content_markdown":"The 2026-2027 seasonal national influenza vaccination program will be implemented sequentially by eligible group starting on September 21, 2026. This season, the age limit for free childhood vaccination will be expanded from 13 to 14, and the exact date-of-birth criteria for those newly included should be checked through the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website.\n\nThe official disease name for what is commonly called the “flu” is influenza. The national vaccination program does not provide universal free vaccination for all ages; it applies only to those who meet the government-designated criteria for children, pregnant women, and people aged 65 or older.\n\n## Changes for the 2026-2027 Season\n\nThe biggest change is that eligibility for children has been expanded to those aged at least 6 months through age 14. The eligible date-of-birth range should be checked in the official guidance on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website.\n\nThe exact date-of-birth range for those newly included should be checked in the official guidance on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website. Eligibility is determined by the date-of-birth range established for the national program, not by school grade or the age a person is commonly described as on the vaccination date.\n\n| Category | 2026-2027 season criteria |\n|---|---|\n| Eligible age for children | At least 6 months old and at most 14 years old |\n| Overall date-of-birth range | January 1, 2012-August 31, 2026 |\n| Birth dates newly included under this expansion | Born January 1-December 31, 2012 |\n| Pregnant women | Anyone whose pregnancy can be confirmed, regardless of gestational age |\n| Older adults | Born on or before December 31, 1961 |\n\nEven if an infant falls within the eligible date-of-birth range, the influenza vaccine is not administered before the infant reaches 6 months of age. For infants who reach 6 months of age during the program period, the actual date on which vaccination becomes available should be confirmed with a medical institution.\n\n## Vaccination Schedule for Children and Pregnant Women\n\nThe start date for children is determined not by age alone but by the number of doses required this season.\n\n| Eligible group | Vaccination start date | End date |\n|---|---:|---:|\n| Children requiring 2 doses | September 21, 2026 | April 30, 2027 |\n| Pregnant women | September 21, 2026 | April 30, 2027 |\n| Children requiring 1 dose | September 28, 2026 | April 30, 2027 |\n\n### Which Children Require 2 Doses?\n\nWhether a child requires 2 doses this season should be confirmed with medical staff based on the child’s previous influenza vaccination records. The interval between the two doses should be checked against the official guidelines on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website and instructions from medical staff.\n\nThe number of doses should be determined by reviewing vaccination records and consulting medical staff rather than relying solely on a guardian’s memory. The number of seasonal doses for children and adolescents should be confirmed with medical staff based on age and previous vaccination history; it is not determined solely because the eligible age range has been expanded.\n\n### Is There a Gestational Age Restriction for Pregnant Women?\n\nPregnant women eligible for the national program may be vaccinated regardless of gestational age. Medical institutions may request documentation confirming the pregnancy, such as a maternity record book or pregnancy confirmation certificate, so it is advisable to check which documents are accepted before visiting.\n\n## Start Dates by Birth Year for People Aged 65 or Older\n\nVaccination for people aged 65 or older begins with the oldest age group to reduce congestion at the start of the program. Each age group may receive vaccination from its start date through the end of the program.\n\n| Age group | Date-of-birth criteria | Start date | End date |\n|---|---|---:|---:|\n| Aged 75 or older | Born on or before December 31, 1951 | October 12, 2026 | April 30, 2027 |\n| Aged 70-74 | Born January 1, 1952-December 31, 1956 | October 15, 2026 | April 30, 2027 |\n| Aged 65-69 | Born January 1, 1957-December 31, 1961 | October 19, 2026 | April 30, 2027 |\n\nThe exact date-of-birth criteria for people aged 65 or older and the start date for each age group should be checked in the official schedule on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website. By contrast, those born in 1962 or later are not eligible for the national program for people aged 65 or older unless they qualify under another category, such as children or pregnant women.\n\n## Why Eligibility Is Based on Date of Birth, Not School Grade\n\nThe free vaccination criteria for children are sometimes simply described as applying “through the second year of middle school,” but school grade is not the precise administrative standard. This is because birth year and school grade may not correspond in cases such as early school entry, deferred enrollment, or adolescents who do not attend school.\n\nThe following principles should be applied for the 2026-2027 season.\n\n- Those born in 2012 are included in the eligible childhood group regardless of their current school grade.\n- Those born in 2011 are not included in the eligible date-of-birth range for children, even if they are 14 years old on the vaccination date.\n- Even infants born by August 31, 2026 may actually be vaccinated only after reaching 6 months of age.\n- Adolescents who do not attend school receive the same support if they meet the national program criteria, including date of birth.\n\nIn other words, the date of birth on the resident registration record and the infant’s age in months should be checked before school grade.\n\n## Is Free Vaccination Available Outside the Area of Residence?\n\nThose eligible for the national vaccination program may receive free vaccination at participating designated medical institutions and public health centers providing vaccination nationwide, regardless of the address on their resident registration record. However, not every hospital, clinic, or public health center participates in the national influenza vaccination program.\n\nBefore visiting, it is necessary to search for a designated medical institution through the Immunization Assistance website or call the institution to confirm the following:\n\n1. Whether the institution participates in the 2026-2027 seasonal national influenza vaccination program\n2. Whether it vaccinates the relevant eligible group among children, pregnant women, and people aged 65 or older\n3. Whether it has national program vaccine supplies in stock on the planned date of the visit\n4. Whether an appointment is required and whether vaccination is available only during designated hours\n5. What documentation is required to verify identity or pregnancy\n\nPublic health center operating procedures and eligible groups may vary by region. If planning to visit a public health center, first confirm with the relevant public health center whether it is providing vaccinations.\n\n## Why Vaccine Availability Should Be Confirmed Before Visiting\n\nEven if an institution appears in a search as a designated medical institution, vaccine availability on a specific date is not always guaranteed. The rate of supply and use and the eligible groups vaccinated vary by institution, and supplies may be temporarily exhausted due to a surge of visitors at the beginning of the vaccination period.\n\nIn addition, the groups served may vary: for example, a medical institution may participate in childhood vaccination but not in programs for pregnant women or older adults. To avoid an unnecessary visit, do not check only whether the institution is designated; **also confirm whether it vaccinates the relevant eligible group and whether vaccine is in stock that day**.\n\nA lack of vaccine stock does not mean that eligibility for free vaccination is lost. You may find another medical institution participating in the program or ask when supplies will be restocked.\n\n## Points to Check Before Vaccination\n\nEven for those eligible for free vaccination, medical staff may adjust the vaccination date based on the person’s health on that day and any previous adverse reactions.\n\n- If you have a fever or symptoms of an acute illness, consult the medical institution before visiting.\n- If you previously had a serious allergic reaction after receiving an influenza vaccine, be sure to disclose this during the pre-vaccination screening.\n- For children, review previous influenza vaccination records to determine whether 1 or 2 doses are required.\n- Pregnant women should prepare pregnancy confirmation documentation accepted by the medical institution.\n- Because the identification or documentation needed to confirm eligibility may vary by institution, ask in advance.\n- After vaccination, remain at the medical institution for the period instructed and monitor for any acute adverse reactions.\n\nPeople who are not eligible for free national vaccination may also receive paid vaccination at a medical institution, but the cost varies by institution. While a uniform nationwide vaccination period applies to the national program, the start date, vaccine type, and price for paid vaccination should be confirmed with each institution.\n\n## Points to Note When Checking the Schedule\n\nThe official program schedule may change depending on the status of infectious disease outbreaks, vaccine supplies, or administrative circumstances. Before actually visiting, the most accurate approach is to recheck the latest guidance from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website and the relevant medical institution.\n\nIn particular, rather than calculating a person’s current age based only on the expression “14 years old,” three criteria should be checked together: the date-of-birth range, whether the child has reached 6 months of age, and previous vaccination history.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eThe 2026-2027 seasonal national influenza vaccination program will be implemented sequentially by eligible group starting on September 21, 2026. This season, the age limit for free childhood vaccination will be expanded from 13 to 14, and the exact date-of-birth criteria for those newly included should be checked through the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe official disease name for what is commonly called the “flu” is influenza. The national vaccination program does not provide universal free vaccination for all ages; it applies only to those who meet the government-designated criteria for children, pregnant women, and people aged 65 or older.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#changes-for-the-2026-2027-season\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"changes-for-the-2026-2027-season\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eChanges for the 2026-2027 Season\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe biggest change is that eligibility for children has been expanded to those aged at least 6 months through age 14. The eligible date-of-birth range should be checked in the official guidance on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe exact date-of-birth range for those newly included should be checked in the official guidance on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website. Eligibility is determined by the date-of-birth range established for the national program, not by school grade or the age a person is commonly described as on the vaccination date.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCategory\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003e2026-2027 season criteria\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eEligible age for children\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026-2027 season criteria\"\u003eAt least 6 months old and at most 14 years old\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eOverall date-of-birth range\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026-2027 season criteria\"\u003eJanuary 1, 2012-August 31, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eBirth dates newly included under this expansion\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026-2027 season criteria\"\u003eBorn January 1-December 31, 2012\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003ePregnant women\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026-2027 season criteria\"\u003eAnyone whose pregnancy can be confirmed, regardless of gestational age\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eOlder adults\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026-2027 season criteria\"\u003eBorn on or before December 31, 1961\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven if an infant falls within the eligible date-of-birth range, the influenza vaccine is not administered before the infant reaches 6 months of age. For infants who reach 6 months of age during the program period, the actual date on which vaccination becomes available should be confirmed with a medical institution.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#vaccination-schedule-for-children-and-pregnant-women\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"vaccination-schedule-for-children-and-pregnant-women\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eVaccination Schedule for Children and Pregnant Women\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe start date for children is determined not by age alone but by the number of doses required this season.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eEligible group\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eVaccination start date\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eEnd date\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Eligible group\"\u003eChildren requiring 2 doses\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Vaccination start date\"\u003eSeptember 21, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"End date\"\u003eApril 30, 2027\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Eligible group\"\u003ePregnant women\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Vaccination start date\"\u003eSeptember 21, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"End date\"\u003eApril 30, 2027\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Eligible group\"\u003eChildren requiring 1 dose\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Vaccination start date\"\u003eSeptember 28, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"End date\"\u003eApril 30, 2027\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#which-children-require-2-doses\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"which-children-require-2-doses\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhich Children Require 2 Doses?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether a child requires 2 doses this season should be confirmed with medical staff based on the child’s previous influenza vaccination records. The interval between the two doses should be checked against the official guidelines on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website and instructions from medical staff.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe number of doses should be determined by reviewing vaccination records and consulting medical staff rather than relying solely on a guardian’s memory. The number of seasonal doses for children and adolescents should be confirmed with medical staff based on age and previous vaccination history; it is not determined solely because the eligible age range has been expanded.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#is-there-a-gestational-age-restriction-for-pregnant-women\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"is-there-a-gestational-age-restriction-for-pregnant-women\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIs There a Gestational Age Restriction for Pregnant Women?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePregnant women eligible for the national program may be vaccinated regardless of gestational age. Medical institutions may request documentation confirming the pregnancy, such as a maternity record book or pregnancy confirmation certificate, so it is advisable to check which documents are accepted before visiting.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#start-dates-by-birth-year-for-people-aged-65-or-older\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"start-dates-by-birth-year-for-people-aged-65-or-older\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eStart Dates by Birth Year for People Aged 65 or Older\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVaccination for people aged 65 or older begins with the oldest age group to reduce congestion at the start of the program. Each age group may receive vaccination from its start date through the end of the program.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAge group\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDate-of-birth criteria\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStart date\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eEnd date\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Age group\"\u003eAged 75 or older\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date-of-birth criteria\"\u003eBorn on or before December 31, 1951\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start date\"\u003eOctober 12, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"End date\"\u003eApril 30, 2027\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Age group\"\u003eAged 70-74\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date-of-birth criteria\"\u003eBorn January 1, 1952-December 31, 1956\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start date\"\u003eOctober 15, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"End date\"\u003eApril 30, 2027\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Age group\"\u003eAged 65-69\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date-of-birth criteria\"\u003eBorn January 1, 1957-December 31, 1961\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start date\"\u003eOctober 19, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"End date\"\u003eApril 30, 2027\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe exact date-of-birth criteria for people aged 65 or older and the start date for each age group should be checked in the official schedule on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website. By contrast, those born in 1962 or later are not eligible for the national program for people aged 65 or older unless they qualify under another category, such as children or pregnant women.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#why-eligibility-is-based-on-date-of-birth-not-school-grade\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"why-eligibility-is-based-on-date-of-birth-not-school-grade\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhy Eligibility Is Based on Date of Birth, Not School Grade\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe free vaccination criteria for children are sometimes simply described as applying “through the second year of middle school,” but school grade is not the precise administrative standard. This is because birth year and school grade may not correspond in cases such as early school entry, deferred enrollment, or adolescents who do not attend school.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe following principles should be applied for the 2026-2027 season.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThose born in 2012 are included in the eligible childhood group regardless of their current school grade.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThose born in 2011 are not included in the eligible date-of-birth range for children, even if they are 14 years old on the vaccination date.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEven infants born by August 31, 2026 may actually be vaccinated only after reaching 6 months of age.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdolescents who do not attend school receive the same support if they meet the national program criteria, including date of birth.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn other words, the date of birth on the resident registration record and the infant’s age in months should be checked before school grade.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#is-free-vaccination-available-outside-the-area-of-residence\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"is-free-vaccination-available-outside-the-area-of-residence\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIs Free Vaccination Available Outside the Area of Residence?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThose eligible for the national vaccination program may receive free vaccination at participating designated medical institutions and public health centers providing vaccination nationwide, regardless of the address on their resident registration record. However, not every hospital, clinic, or public health center participates in the national influenza vaccination program.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore visiting, it is necessary to search for a designated medical institution through the Immunization Assistance website or call the institution to confirm the following:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether the institution participates in the 2026-2027 seasonal national influenza vaccination program\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether it vaccinates the relevant eligible group among children, pregnant women, and people aged 65 or older\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether it has national program vaccine supplies in stock on the planned date of the visit\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether an appointment is required and whether vaccination is available only during designated hours\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat documentation is required to verify identity or pregnancy\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePublic health center operating procedures and eligible groups may vary by region. If planning to visit a public health center, first confirm with the relevant public health center whether it is providing vaccinations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#why-vaccine-availability-should-be-confirmed-before-visiting\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"why-vaccine-availability-should-be-confirmed-before-visiting\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhy Vaccine Availability Should Be Confirmed Before Visiting\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven if an institution appears in a search as a designated medical institution, vaccine availability on a specific date is not always guaranteed. The rate of supply and use and the eligible groups vaccinated vary by institution, and supplies may be temporarily exhausted due to a surge of visitors at the beginning of the vaccination period.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition, the groups served may vary: for example, a medical institution may participate in childhood vaccination but not in programs for pregnant women or older adults. To avoid an unnecessary visit, do not check only whether the institution is designated; \u003cstrong\u003ealso confirm whether it vaccinates the relevant eligible group and whether vaccine is in stock that day\u003c/strong\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA lack of vaccine stock does not mean that eligibility for free vaccination is lost. You may find another medical institution participating in the program or ask when supplies will be restocked.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#points-to-check-before-vaccination\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"points-to-check-before-vaccination\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003ePoints to Check Before Vaccination\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven for those eligible for free vaccination, medical staff may adjust the vaccination date based on the person’s health on that day and any previous adverse reactions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you have a fever or symptoms of an acute illness, consult the medical institution before visiting.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you previously had a serious allergic reaction after receiving an influenza vaccine, be sure to disclose this during the pre-vaccination screening.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor children, review previous influenza vaccination records to determine whether 1 or 2 doses are required.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePregnant women should prepare pregnancy confirmation documentation accepted by the medical institution.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBecause the identification or documentation needed to confirm eligibility may vary by institution, ask in advance.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAfter vaccination, remain at the medical institution for the period instructed and monitor for any acute adverse reactions.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople who are not eligible for free national vaccination may also receive paid vaccination at a medical institution, but the cost varies by institution. While a uniform nationwide vaccination period applies to the national program, the start date, vaccine type, and price for paid vaccination should be confirmed with each institution.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#points-to-note-when-checking-the-schedule\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"points-to-note-when-checking-the-schedule\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003ePoints to Note When Checking the Schedule\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe official program schedule may change depending on the status of infectious disease outbreaks, vaccine supplies, or administrative circumstances. Before actually visiting, the most accurate approach is to recheck the latest guidance from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Immunization Assistance website and the relevant medical institution.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn particular, rather than calculating a person’s current age based only on the expression “14 years old,” three criteria should be checked together: the date-of-birth range, whether the child has reached 6 months of age, and previous vaccination history.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Infectious disease surveillance","National immunization","Adolescent health"],"faqs":[{"question":"Are children born in 2012 eligible for free flu vaccination for the 2026-2027 season?","answer":"Yes. Eligibility for children has been expanded to age 14, newly including children born from January 1 through December 31, 2012. Vaccinations for children requiring one dose begin on September 28, 2026."},{"question":"Can someone born in 2011 receive a free vaccination if they are 14 years old on the vaccination date?","answer":"Eligibility for the national childhood immunization program is determined not only by age on the day of vaccination but also by the official date-of-birth range. For the 2026-2027 season, the criterion for children is birth on or after January 1, 2012, so those born in 2011 are not eligible for support for children."},{"question":"Do 14-year-old children also need two doses of the flu vaccine?","answer":"The age expansion alone does not make a child eligible for two doses. Two doses generally apply to children at least 6 months old but under age 9 who have no previous vaccination history or an insufficient vaccination history. A 14-year-old normally receives one dose per season."},{"question":"Why are the start dates different for children receiving one dose and those receiving two doses?","answer":"Children requiring two doses generally need an interval of at least 4 weeks between doses, so their vaccinations begin earlier, on September 21, 2026. Vaccinations for children requiring one dose begin on September 28."},{"question":"Are people born in 1961 eligible for free flu vaccination in 2026?","answer":"Yes. Those born on or before December 31, 1961 are included in the group aged 65 or older. Those aged 65-69 who were born from 1957 through 1961 can be vaccinated starting October 19, 2026."},{"question":"Can I receive a free vaccination at a designated medical institution in another region?","answer":"Those eligible for the national immunization program may use any participating contracted medical institution nationwide or a public health center that provides vaccinations, regardless of their registered address. However, the eligible groups served and vaccine inventory vary by institution, so you should check before visiting."},{"question":"Can I get vaccinated immediately at any medical institution listed on the Vaccination Assistance website?","answer":"Even if it is listed as a designated medical institution, same-day vaccine inventory, participation by eligible group, or appointment requirements may vary. It is advisable to call the institution before visiting to confirm eligibility, inventory, and operating hours."},{"question":"Are babies born in August 2026 also eligible for free vaccination?","answer":"Infants born through August 31, 2026 fall within the program's date-of-birth range, but they can receive an influenza vaccination only after reaching 6 months of age. You should check with a medical institution to determine when vaccination is available, taking into account the date the infant reaches 6 months of age and the program end date."},{"question":"Can I receive the national flu vaccination during early pregnancy?","answer":"Under the national program, pregnant women are eligible regardless of the stage of pregnancy. However, individual health conditions should be discussed with medical staff during the pre-vaccination screening, and documentation confirming the pregnancy may be requested."},{"question":"What happens if I miss the free vaccination period?","answer":"The same free coverage may not apply after the national program period ends. You must separately check whether paid vaccination is available at a medical institution, and the cost and vaccine inventory may vary by institution."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.kdca.go.kr/kdca/2848/subview.do?enc=Zm5jdDF8QEB8JTJGYmJzJTJGa2RjYSUyRjQyJTJGMzEyMzA4JTJGYXJ0Y2xWaWV3LmRvJTNG","title":"Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency 2026–2027 Seasonal National Influenza Vaccination Information","type":"data_point"},{"url":"https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/mngm/goVcntMngm.do?menuCd=333\u0026menuLv=3","title":"Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency Vaccination Assistant: Find a Designated Medical Institution","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.nyj.go.kr/health/contents.do?key=380","title":"Namyangju Public Health Center Influenza Vaccination Information","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":1007,"url":"https://onbinder.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTM4OTIsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--5febb64ba5148469201dbde2f7437d92a35953ba/ai-53b9e833.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"의사가 예방접종 서류를 확인하는 동안 소매를 걷고 앉아 있는 청소년과 보호자","caption":"의료진이 청소년의 독감 예방접종을 준비하며 관련 서류를 확인하고 있다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Teen with a rolled-up sleeve as a doctor reviews vaccination paperwork beside his guardian","caption":"A doctor reviews the paperwork while preparing the teen for a flu vaccination.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"医師が予防接種の書類を確認するそばで袖をまくって座る少年と保護者","caption":"医師が少年のインフルエンザ予防接種に向けて書類を確認している。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Adolescente con la manga subida mientras un médico revisa documentos junto a su tutora","caption":"El médico revisa la documentación antes de vacunar al adolescente contra la gripe.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Remaja menggulung lengan saat dokter memeriksa dokumen vaksinasi di samping pendampingnya","caption":"Dokter memeriksa dokumen sebelum memberikan vaksin flu kepada remaja tersebut.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Adolescente com a manga levantada enquanto médico confere documentos ao lado da responsável","caption":"O médico confere a documentação antes de aplicar a vacina contra a gripe no adolescente.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"少年捲起袖子坐著，醫師在監護人旁查看疫苗接種文件","caption":"醫師查看相關文件，準備為少年接種流感疫苗。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Jugendlicher mit hochgekrempeltem Ärmel, während ein Arzt neben der Begleitperson Unterlagen prüft","caption":"Der Arzt prüft die Unterlagen vor der Grippeimpfung des Jugendlichen.","description":null}}},{"id":1008,"url":"https://onbinder.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTM4OTgsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--8802ca3d48661e07cbff403441d029dac56fba2e/ai-c8d1e09e.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_image","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"어린이·임신부·어르신과 접종 일정표, 백신, 병원 위치 지도를 담은 독감 예방접종 안내 삽화","caption":"대상별 독감 무료접종 일정과 가까운 의료기관을 확인하는 과정을 보여준다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Flu vaccination guide with children, a pregnant woman, seniors, schedule, vaccine, clinics, and maps","caption":"The graphic illustrates checking free flu vaccination dates and nearby clinics for eligible groups.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"子ども、妊婦、高齢者、接種日程表、ワクチン、医療機関の地図を描いたインフルエンザ予防接種案内","caption":"対象者別の無料インフルエンザ接種日程と医療機関の確認方法を示している。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Guía de vacunación antigripal con niños, embarazada, mayores, calendario, vacuna, clínicas y mapas","caption":"La ilustración muestra cómo consultar las fechas de vacunación gratuita y los centros cercanos.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Panduan vaksinasi flu dengan anak, ibu hamil, lansia, jadwal, vaksin, klinik, dan peta lokasi","caption":"Ilustrasi ini menunjukkan cara memeriksa jadwal vaksinasi flu gratis dan klinik terdekat.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Guia de vacinação contra gripe com crianças, gestante, idosos, calendário, vacina, clínicas e mapas","caption":"A ilustração mostra a consulta das datas de vacinação gratuita e dos postos próximos.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"兒童、孕婦、長者、接種日程表、疫苗、醫療院所與地圖組成的流感疫苗接種指南","caption":"圖中呈現各對象的免費流感疫苗接種時程及鄰近醫療院所查詢方式。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Grippeimpf-Ratgeber mit Kindern, Schwangerer, Senioren, Terminkalender, Impfstoff, Kliniken und Karten","caption":"Die Grafik zeigt die Prüfung kostenloser Impftermine und nahe gelegener Impfstellen.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-09-02T00:31:17+09:00","updated_at":"2026-09-02T00:31:17+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://onbinder.com/en/articles/2026-2027-korea-free-flu-vaccination-schedule"}