South Korea Has Officially Recognized Same-Sex Couples As Spouses In National Census

South Korea will now recognize same-sex couples as "spouses" in its national census for the first time.

South Korea’s Population and Housing Census, which is conducted every five years, is a national survey to collect data on the population for national policy-making, research, and other purposes.

Starting from Oct. 22, the Census has been updated to allow “spouse” or “cohabiting partner” as valid responses for same-sex household members.

Previously, the system would show an error message if same-sex couples tried to register as spouses.

LGBTQ rights group Rainbow Action Korea called it “a historic decision”, marking the first time same-sex couples have been acknowledged in official government data.

South Korea still does not allow same-sex marriage, leaving same-sex couples without legal protections in family law, inheritance, taxes and housing.

However, in July 2024, South Korea’s Supreme Court ruled that its national health insurance must cover same-sex partners, after a same-sex couple sued the health insurance for denying them partner status and won.

More On LGBTQ Rights In South Korea

South Korea Has Proposed A Bill To Legalize Same-Sex Marriage

Currently, same-sex marriage is not recognized in South Korea, where marriage is defined as based on “equality of the sexes”.

AlmostKassy Cho

In A Landmark Ruling, South Korea Has Overturned The Jail Sentences Of Two Gay Soldiers Who Had Sex

In a landmark ruling, the South Korean supreme court has overturned the conviction of two gay soldiers, who had sexual intercourse during their military service.

AlmostSofia Hou

In A Rare Move, K-Pop Idol Bain From Boy Band JUST B Publicly Came Out As Gay During A Concert

Bain said he didn’t come out to make an impact on the K-pop industry and had simply wanted to share his true self and be authentic with his fans.

AlmostNira Nyangweso