South Korea expands free influenza vaccination to 14-year-olds

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has announced the expansion of the national free influenza vaccination program for the 2026-2027 season. To prevent the spread of the virus among school-aged youth, the age limit for free vaccinations has been increased from 13 years old to 14 years old (those born between January 1, 2012, and August 31, 2026).

The vaccination program will run from September 21, 2025, to April 30, 2026. The rollout will occur in stages: children requiring two doses and pregnant women can begin on September 21, while children requiring a single dose can start on September 28. For seniors, vaccinations will begin on October 12 for those aged 75 and older, October 15 for those aged 70-74, and October 19 for those aged 65-69.

The KDCA also recommends that seniors receive their COVID-19 vaccinations alongside their influenza shots, as both will follow the same schedule. The program will utilize trivalent vaccines recommended by the World Health Organization. Eligible individuals can receive vaccinations at local public health centers or designated medical institutions regardless of their place of residence.