{"content_id":"txgqadf1c3","slug":"first-meeting-voucher-2026-application","locale":"en","schema_type":"HowTo","category":"policy_guide","category_name":"Policy Guide","title":"First Meeting Voucher Application: KRW 2M or 3M","summary":"Children born in or after 2024 can apply for the First Meeting Voucher before two years have passed from their date of birth. As a rule, the first child receives KRW 2 million and the second or subsequent child receives KRW 3 million as a National Happiness Card voucher.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"OnBinder Editorial Team","url":"https://onbinder.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["First, confirm that the birth has been registered and a resident registration number has been issued.","Check that two years have not passed since the child's date of birth.","Prepare the applicant's ID and any additional documents required for an application by proxy.","Apply through Bokjiro, Government24 Happy Birth, or an administrative welfare center.","After payment, check the National Happiness Card expiration date and balance."],"content_markdown":"Children born in 2024 or later whose birth registration has been completed and who have received a resident registration number are eligible. At the time of application, no more than two years may have passed since the date of birth. Apply through Bokjiro or another available channel for 2 million won for the first child and 3 million won for the second or later child.\n\nBased on the 2026 Bokjiro First Meeting Voucher service criteria\n\n## First Meeting Voucher Application Process\n\nAfter completing the birth registration, check the eligibility requirements and documents before applying. Choose either the online or in-person application route according to your circumstances. Applying immediately after birth makes it easier to use the benefit for initial childcare expenses.\n\n1. Register the birth and obtain a resident registration number for the child.\n2. Confirm that no more than two years have passed since the child’s date of birth as of the application date.\n3. Prepare the guardian’s ID and any required additional documents.\n4. Apply online through Bokjiro or Government24.\n5. If applying online is difficult, visit an Administrative Welfare Center.\n6. After the benefit is issued, check the balance and expiration date on the National Happiness Card.\n\nOnline applications are suitable when a parent is the guardian. Other guardians or representatives may need to complete in-person verification. Asking the relevant Administrative Welfare Center about the required documents before submitting the application can reduce the need for repeat visits.\n\n## Eligibility and Benefit Amounts\n\nThe basic eligibility requirement is a child with resident registration who was born in 2024 or later. The birth registration must be complete, and the child must have a valid resident registration number. At the time of application, no more than two years may have passed since the date of birth.\n\n| Category | 2026 benefit amount | Standard payment method |\n|---|---:|---|\n| First child | 2 million won | National Happiness Card voucher |\n| Second or later child | 3 million won | National Happiness Card voucher |\n\nThe benefit amount varies according to birth order. The amount for a second or later child is 1 million won more than for a first child. This is separate from childbirth grants provided by local governments.\n\nEligibility requirements for local childbirth grants vary by region. You must also check whether they are automatically applied for together with the First Meeting Voucher, as this differs by region. Check for separate support through the city, county, or district office or Administrative Welfare Center for your registered address.\n\n## Documents for Guardians and Representatives\n\nIn principle, the person who actually protects and raises the child should apply. Holders of parental rights, including parents, and legal guardians may qualify as guardians. A person who is raising the child in practice may need to have the guardianship relationship verified.\n\n### When a Guardian Applies Directly\n\nFor an in-person application, the applicant’s ID is generally required. The responsible agency may request additional documents verifying the family or guardianship relationship. An identity verification method is required for an online application.\n\n### When a Representative Applies\n\nA representative application is available when it is difficult for the guardian to apply directly. Generally, the following documents must be prepared. The receiving agency will make the final determination regarding the specific requirements.\n\n- Submission forms, including the application for social security benefits\n- A power of attorney completed by the guardian\n- A copy of the guardian’s ID\n- The representative’s original ID\n- Additional documents verifying the family or guardianship relationship\n\nEligible representatives may include relatives and others. In some cases, a relevant public official or facility employee may apply. Verification procedures may vary depending on the applicant’s status.\n\n## Comparison of Application Channels\n\nIf the birth registration has already been completed, you can apply through Bokjiro. To process birth-related services together, you can use Government24’s Happy Birth service. An in-person application is appropriate when document verification is required.\n\n| Application channel | Suitable situation | What to prepare |\n|---|---|---|\n| Bokjiro | Applying online after completing the birth registration | Identity verification, application information |\n| Government24 Happy Birth | Applying for birth-related services together | Identity verification, confirmation that birth registration is complete |\n| Administrative Welfare Center | When a representative application or verification of the guardianship relationship is required | ID, power of attorney, and other relevant documents |\n\nOn the online application screen, check the family information and payment card information. Supplementary information may be required if the entered details differ from resident registration records. After submission, check the application status again.\n\n## National Happiness Card Payment and Cash Exceptions\n\nOrdinary households receive the benefit as a National Happiness Card voucher. If you already have a National Happiness Card in your name, the benefit can be issued to that card. If you do not have one, you must complete the issuance process through a participating card company.\n\nCash payment is not an option that applicants may choose. It may apply only when an exception is recognized, such as for a child under facility care. Depending on the type of care, an account in the child’s name may be used.\n\nA guardian raising an infant in a correctional facility may also undergo a separate review. The responsible agency determines whether the benefit will actually be paid in cash and which account will be used. If an exception may apply, check with an Administrative Welfare Center first.\n\n## Where the First Meeting Voucher Can Be Used and Restricted Businesses\n\nThe voucher can be used broadly for goods and services needed to raise the child. It can also be used at physical stores and certain online retailers. Whether payment is accepted depends on the merchant’s registered business category.\n\nUse may be restricted at businesses such as the following:\n\n- Entertainment and gambling businesses\n- Certain hygiene and leisure businesses\n- Adult product stores\n- Duty-free shops\n- Retailers of cash-equivalent products, such as gift certificates\n\nEven businesses with the same name may be registered under different categories. Before making a payment, check with the store or card company whether the voucher can be used. After payment, you can check the balance through the card company or electronic voucher transaction history.\n\n## Usage Period and Application Timing\n\nThe usage period is two years from the child’s date of birth. Even if there is no separate application deadline, you cannot apply after the usage period has ended. If issuance is delayed, the actual period available for use will also be shorter.\n\nThis program does not grant a new two-year period from the application date. The reference date is the child’s date of birth, not the application or issuance date. Check the expiration date displayed on the card screen as the final reference.\n\nAny remaining voucher balance may expire after the usage period ends. Do not plan expenses on the assumption that the usage period will be extended. Cash-payment exceptions may be subject to management criteria different from the voucher usage period.\n\n## Summary by Circumstance\n\nThe application channel and payment method vary depending on the guardianship relationship. Check the item below that most closely matches your current circumstances.\n\n| Current circumstances | Next step | Note |\n|---|---|---|\n| Parent applying directly | Use Bokjiro or Government24 | Birth registration and identity verification required |\n| Parent visiting an Administrative Welfare Center | Apply with ID | Additional verification documents may be required |\n| Relative or another person applying as a representative | Prepare a power of attorney and IDs for both parties | Need to confirm whether the representative is eligible |\n| Exception such as facility care | Ask an Administrative Welfare Center about the payment method | Cash payment cannot be selected at will |\n| Nearly two years since the date of birth | Apply immediately and check the expiration date | The usage period may be reduced by the review period |\n\n## Calculation Example\n\nAssume that a second child born in 2026 meets the requirements. Because the child is second in birth order, the benefit amount is 3 million won. This is 1 million won more than the 2 million won provided for a first child under the same conditions.\n\nThe two-year period is not recalculated from the date of issuance. The usage period ends two years from the child’s date of birth. Check the card balance screen for the exact final date of use.\n\n## Common Mistakes\n\nThe most common misunderstanding is that the benefit is deposited into a regular bank account. The standard payment method is a National Happiness Card voucher. Cash applies only in limited exceptional circumstances.\n\n- Attempting to apply immediately before completing the birth registration\n- Believing that the usage period begins on the application date\n- Assuming that it is acceptable to apply late because there is no separate application deadline\n- Assuming that payment can be made at every store\n- Believing that local childbirth grants are also applied for automatically\n- A representative visiting without a power of attorney\n\nThe application and card issuance are also sometimes mistaken for the same process. A National Happiness Card is required to use the voucher after it is approved. Check the application screen or ask the card company whether an existing card can be used.\n\n## How to Check the Official Criteria\n\nCheck the latest criteria in the “First Meeting Voucher” service details on Bokjiro. Review the service eligibility, application method, and additional document requirements in order. Cash exceptions also require a determination by the relevant Administrative Welfare Center.\n\nThe wording of the official regulations can be checked on the Bokjiro service details screen. Online, go to Bokjiro’s welfare benefit application menu. Before visiting in person, ask the Administrative Welfare Center for your registered address about the required documents.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eChildren born in 2024 or later whose birth registration has been completed and who have received a resident registration number are eligible. At the time of application, no more than two years may have passed since the date of birth. Apply through Bokjiro or another available channel for 2 million won for the first child and 3 million won for the second or later child.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased on the 2026 Bokjiro First Meeting Voucher service criteria\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#first-meeting-voucher-application-process\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"first-meeting-voucher-application-process\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eFirst Meeting Voucher Application Process\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter completing the birth registration, check the eligibility requirements and documents before applying. Choose either the online or in-person application route according to your circumstances. Applying immediately after birth makes it easier to use the benefit for initial childcare expenses.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRegister the birth and obtain a resident registration number for the child.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfirm that no more than two years have passed since the child’s date of birth as of the application date.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrepare the guardian’s ID and any required additional documents.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply online through Bokjiro or Government24.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf applying online is difficult, visit an Administrative Welfare Center.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAfter the benefit is issued, check the balance and expiration date on the National Happiness Card.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnline applications are suitable when a parent is the guardian. Other guardians or representatives may need to complete in-person verification. Asking the relevant Administrative Welfare Center about the required documents before submitting the application can reduce the need for repeat visits.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#eligibility-and-benefit-amounts\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"eligibility-and-benefit-amounts\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eEligibility and Benefit Amounts\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe basic eligibility requirement is a child with resident registration who was born in 2024 or later. The birth registration must be complete, and the child must have a valid resident registration number. At the time of application, no more than two years may have passed since the date of birth.\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 benefit amount\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStandard payment method\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eFirst child\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026 benefit amount\"\u003e2 million won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Standard payment method\"\u003eNational Happiness Card voucher\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eSecond or later child\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026 benefit amount\"\u003e3 million won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Standard payment method\"\u003eNational Happiness Card voucher\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe benefit amount varies according to birth order. The amount for a second or later child is 1 million won more than for a first child. This is separate from childbirth grants provided by local governments.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEligibility requirements for local childbirth grants vary by region. You must also check whether they are automatically applied for together with the First Meeting Voucher, as this differs by region. Check for separate support through the city, county, or district office or Administrative Welfare Center for your registered address.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#documents-for-guardians-and-representatives\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"documents-for-guardians-and-representatives\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDocuments for Guardians and Representatives\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn principle, the person who actually protects and raises the child should apply. Holders of parental rights, including parents, and legal guardians may qualify as guardians. A person who is raising the child in practice may need to have the guardianship relationship verified.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#when-a-guardian-applies-directly\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"when-a-guardian-applies-directly\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhen a Guardian Applies Directly\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor an in-person application, the applicant’s ID is generally required. The responsible agency may request additional documents verifying the family or guardianship relationship. An identity verification method is required for an online application.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#when-a-representative-applies\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"when-a-representative-applies\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhen a Representative Applies\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA representative application is available when it is difficult for the guardian to apply directly. Generally, the following documents must be prepared. The receiving agency will make the final determination regarding the specific requirements.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSubmission forms, including the application for social security benefits\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA power of attorney completed by the guardian\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA copy of the guardian’s ID\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe representative’s original ID\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdditional documents verifying the family or guardianship relationship\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEligible representatives may include relatives and others. In some cases, a relevant public official or facility employee may apply. Verification procedures may vary depending on the applicant’s status.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#comparison-of-application-channels\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"comparison-of-application-channels\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eComparison of Application Channels\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the birth registration has already been completed, you can apply through Bokjiro. To process birth-related services together, you can use Government24’s Happy Birth service. An in-person application is appropriate when document verification is required.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eApplication channel\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSuitable situation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to prepare\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Application channel\"\u003eBokjiro\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Suitable situation\"\u003eApplying online after completing the birth registration\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to prepare\"\u003eIdentity verification, application information\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Application channel\"\u003eGovernment24 Happy Birth\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Suitable situation\"\u003eApplying for birth-related services together\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to prepare\"\u003eIdentity verification, confirmation that birth registration is complete\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Application channel\"\u003eAdministrative Welfare Center\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Suitable situation\"\u003eWhen a representative application or verification of the guardianship relationship is required\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to prepare\"\u003eID, power of attorney, and other relevant documents\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the online application screen, check the family information and payment card information. Supplementary information may be required if the entered details differ from resident registration records. After submission, check the application status again.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#national-happiness-card-payment-and-cash-exceptions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"national-happiness-card-payment-and-cash-exceptions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eNational Happiness Card Payment and Cash Exceptions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrdinary households receive the benefit as a National Happiness Card voucher. If you already have a National Happiness Card in your name, the benefit can be issued to that card. If you do not have one, you must complete the issuance process through a participating card company.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCash payment is not an option that applicants may choose. It may apply only when an exception is recognized, such as for a child under facility care. Depending on the type of care, an account in the child’s name may be used.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA guardian raising an infant in a correctional facility may also undergo a separate review. The responsible agency determines whether the benefit will actually be paid in cash and which account will be used. If an exception may apply, check with an Administrative Welfare Center first.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#where-the-first-meeting-voucher-can-be-used-and-restricted-businesses\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"where-the-first-meeting-voucher-can-be-used-and-restricted-businesses\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhere the First Meeting Voucher Can Be Used and Restricted Businesses\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe voucher can be used broadly for goods and services needed to raise the child. It can also be used at physical stores and certain online retailers. Whether payment is accepted depends on the merchant’s registered business category.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse may be restricted at businesses such as the following:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEntertainment and gambling businesses\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCertain hygiene and leisure businesses\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdult product stores\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDuty-free shops\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRetailers of cash-equivalent products, such as gift certificates\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven businesses with the same name may be registered under different categories. Before making a payment, check with the store or card company whether the voucher can be used. After payment, you can check the balance through the card company or electronic voucher transaction history.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#usage-period-and-application-timing\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"usage-period-and-application-timing\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eUsage Period and Application Timing\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe usage period is two years from the child’s date of birth. Even if there is no separate application deadline, you cannot apply after the usage period has ended. If issuance is delayed, the actual period available for use will also be shorter.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis program does not grant a new two-year period from the application date. The reference date is the child’s date of birth, not the application or issuance date. Check the expiration date displayed on the card screen as the final reference.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAny remaining voucher balance may expire after the usage period ends. Do not plan expenses on the assumption that the usage period will be extended. Cash-payment exceptions may be subject to management criteria different from the voucher usage period.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#summary-by-circumstance\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"summary-by-circumstance\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eSummary by Circumstance\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe application channel and payment method vary depending on the guardianship relationship. Check the item below that most closely matches your current circumstances.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCurrent circumstances\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNext step\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNote\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eParent applying directly\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Next step\"\u003eUse Bokjiro or Government24\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Note\"\u003eBirth registration and identity verification required\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eParent visiting an Administrative Welfare Center\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Next step\"\u003eApply with ID\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Note\"\u003eAdditional verification documents may be required\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eRelative or another person applying as a representative\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Next step\"\u003ePrepare a power of attorney and IDs for both parties\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Note\"\u003eNeed to confirm whether the representative is eligible\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eException such as facility care\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Next step\"\u003eAsk an Administrative Welfare Center about the payment method\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Note\"\u003eCash payment cannot be selected at will\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eNearly two years since the date of birth\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Next step\"\u003eApply immediately and check the expiration date\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Note\"\u003eThe usage period may be reduced by the review period\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#calculation-example\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"calculation-example\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCalculation Example\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssume that a second child born in 2026 meets the requirements. Because the child is second in birth order, the benefit amount is 3 million won. This is 1 million won more than the 2 million won provided for a first child under the same conditions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two-year period is not recalculated from the date of issuance. The usage period ends two years from the child’s date of birth. Check the card balance screen for the exact final date of use.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#common-mistakes\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"common-mistakes\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCommon Mistakes\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe most common misunderstanding is that the benefit is deposited into a regular bank account. The standard payment method is a National Happiness Card voucher. Cash applies only in limited exceptional circumstances.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttempting to apply immediately before completing the birth registration\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBelieving that the usage period begins on the application date\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAssuming that it is acceptable to apply late because there is no separate application deadline\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAssuming that payment can be made at every store\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBelieving that local childbirth grants are also applied for automatically\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA representative visiting without a power of attorney\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe application and card issuance are also sometimes mistaken for the same process. A National Happiness Card is required to use the voucher after it is approved. Check the application screen or ask the card company whether an existing card can be used.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-to-check-the-official-criteria\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-to-check-the-official-criteria\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow to Check the Official Criteria\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck the latest criteria in the “First Meeting Voucher” service details on Bokjiro. Review the service eligibility, application method, and additional document requirements in order. Cash exceptions also require a determination by the relevant Administrative Welfare Center.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wording of the official regulations can be checked on the Bokjiro service details screen. Online, go to Bokjiro’s welfare benefit application menu. Before visiting in person, ask the Administrative Welfare Center for your registered address about the required documents.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Everyday Finance","Bokjiro","Newborn Support Voucher"],"faqs":[{"question":"Can a child born in 2023 apply for the First Meeting Voucher in 2026?","answer":"According to the 2026 Bokjiro criteria, eligible children are those born in or after 2024. The application must be submitted before two years have passed from the child's date of birth."},{"question":"By when must I apply for the First Meeting Voucher?","answer":"Rather than a separate annual application deadline, the key is the two-year usage period from the date of birth. The application and payment process must be completed before the usage period ends in order to actually use the voucher."},{"question":"Is the First Meeting Voucher paid in cash into a bank account?","answer":"For most households, it is provided as a voucher on the National Happiness Card. Cash payment may be considered only when specified exceptions, such as a child being under residential care, are recognized."},{"question":"If I already have a National Happiness Card, do I need to get a new one?","answer":"In some cases, the voucher can be added to an existing National Happiness Card. Check the application screen and contact the relevant card issuer to confirm whether your card can be used."},{"question":"Can a grandparent apply on behalf of the parent or guardian?","answer":"A grandparent may apply if recognized as the parent or guardian's authorized representative. A letter of authorization, a copy of the parent or guardian's ID, and the representative's ID may be required."},{"question":"Can the First Meeting Voucher be used for online shopping?","answer":"It can be used at some online retailers. Payments for gift certificates and purchases from restricted business categories may be excluded, so you should check the merchant's business category."},{"question":"Where can I check the balance of the First Meeting Voucher?","answer":"You can check it through the National Happiness Card issuer or in the transaction history of the Social Services Electronic Voucher system. It is also advisable to check the expiration date."},{"question":"Can I receive both the First Meeting Voucher and a local government childbirth subsidy?","answer":"The First Meeting Voucher and local government childbirth grants are separate programs. You should check with the local government for your registered address regarding whether the local benefit can be received together with the voucher and how to apply."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.bokjiro.go.kr/ssis-tbu/twataa/wlfareInfo/moveTWAT52011M.do?wlfareInfoId=WLF00004656\u0026wlfareInfoReldBztpCd=01","title":"Bokjiro First Encounter Voucher Service Details","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":1235,"url":"https://onbinder.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTc1OTgsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--9a3a1a3305d14fb660582e995eeeb2b0ff2db43a/ai-7dabeb3d.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"아기를 품에 안은 여성이 계산대에서 스마트폰을 확인하고 있는 모습","caption":"아기를 안은 여성이 기저귀를 계산하며 스마트폰을 확인하고 있습니다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Woman carrying a sleeping baby checks her smartphone at a checkout counter","caption":"A mother checks her phone while purchasing diapers at a baby store.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"眠る赤ちゃんを抱っこひもで抱え、レジでスマートフォンを見る女性","caption":"女性が赤ちゃんを抱きながら、おむつの会計時にスマートフォンを確認しています。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Mujer con un bebé dormido en un portabebés mira su teléfono en la caja","caption":"Una madre revisa su teléfono mientras compra pañales en una tienda infantil.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Perempuan menggendong bayi tidur sambil memeriksa ponsel di kasir","caption":"Seorang ibu memeriksa ponselnya saat membeli popok di toko perlengkapan bayi.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Mulher com bebê dormindo no carregador olha o celular no caixa","caption":"Uma mãe verifica o celular enquanto compra fraldas em uma loja infantil.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"女子用揹巾抱著熟睡的嬰兒，在結帳櫃檯查看手機","caption":"一名母親抱著嬰兒購買尿布，並在結帳時查看手機。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Frau mit schlafendem Baby in der Trage schaut an der Kasse auf ihr Smartphone","caption":"Eine Mutter prüft beim Kauf von Windeln in einem Babygeschäft ihr Smartphone.","description":null}}},{"id":1236,"url":"https://onbinder.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTc2MDQsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--134e9290aed49b15890bc3e9e3ba39967bf852cb/ai-60967cd5.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_image","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"아기 신발, 신청 서류, 노트북, 관공서, 지원 카드와 일정표를 배치한 복지 신청 안내 일러스트","caption":"첫만남이용권의 온라인 신청부터 카드 지급과 이용 일정까지를 시각화한 그림입니다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Illustration of baby shoes, application forms, laptop, public office, benefit card, calendars, and charts","caption":"The illustration visualizes the benefit process from online application to card issuance and usage scheduling.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"ベビーシューズ、申請書類、ノートパソコン、役所、給付カード、カレンダー、グラフのイラスト","caption":"オンライン申請からカードの交付、利用スケジュールまでの流れを表しています。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Ilustración de patucos, formularios, portátil, oficina pública, tarjeta de ayuda, calendarios y gráficos","caption":"La ilustración muestra el proceso desde la solicitud en línea hasta la entrega y el uso de la tarjeta de ayuda.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Ilustrasi sepatu bayi, formulir, laptop, kantor pemerintah, kartu bantuan, kalender, dan grafik","caption":"Ilustrasi ini menunjukkan proses bantuan dari pengajuan daring hingga penerbitan dan jadwal penggunaan kartu.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Ilustração de sapatinhos de bebê, formulários, notebook, órgão público, cartão de benefício e calendários","caption":"A ilustração mostra o processo do benefício, da solicitação online à emissão e ao uso do cartão.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"嬰兒鞋、申請文件、筆電、政府機關、補助卡、月曆與圖表的插畫","caption":"插畫呈現從線上申請到補助卡發放及使用安排的流程。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Illustration mit Babyschuhen, Anträgen, Laptop, Behörde, Leistungskarte, Kalendern und Diagrammen","caption":"Die Illustration zeigt den Ablauf von der Online-Beantragung bis zur Kartenausgabe und Nutzungsplanung.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-09-12T12:37:40+09:00","updated_at":"2026-09-12T12:37:40+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/first-meeting-voucher-2026-application"}