Can you be gay in korea

There are no formal restrictions on freedom of expression and association in South Korea.

While the National Human Rights Commission of Korea Act Article 2 includes sexual orientation as a protected class, the Commission’s powers are limited to recommendations and lack enforcement authority. The situation for LGBT rights in South Korea is evolving, which calls for staying informed and vigilant and respecting local customs while exploring this fascinating country.

The LGBT Social Situation In South Korea

South Korea’s LGBT community faces numerous challenges, even though the country is known for its rapid economic and technological advancements.

However, some nobility and Buddhist monks were known to have professed their attraction to or been actively involved with members of the same sex. She underwent a gender reassignment surgery in 2006 to be identified as a female in South Korea and changed her name from Han-jin to Han-bit.

Kwon Do-Woon

Kwon Do-woon is a trot singer who came out as gay in Korea on his 10th anniversary of his debut in 2020.

Stay informed about the current political and societal climate in South Korea, and make use of resources such as LGBTQ travel blogs and forums. It has since 2000, been an annual public event taking place in Seoul for about two weeks from the end of May to the beginning of June advocating for LGBT rights in Korea. These organizations tirelessly work to improve LGBT rights in the country and make South Korea a more inclusive and equal society.

While it is crucial to acknowledge the progress being made, it is equally important to remain cautious and realistic.

Homosexuality was and often still is depicted as a mental illness within Korean culture, and numerous STDs, such as HIV/AIDS, are blamed on the LGBTQ community in Korea. This lack of recognition means same-sex couples cannot jointly adopt children or access many of the legal rights and benefits afforded to heterosexual married couples, such as those related to taxation, inheritance, or family law.

In July 2024, the Supreme Court of Korea ruled that same-sex partners are eligible for spousal benefits from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS).

The requirements are:
- Must be older than 20
- Must be unmarried
- Must have no underage children
- Must be a Korean citizen
- Written consent of parents (regardless of age)
Additionally, for MtF trans people, issues with conscription apply.

Same-sex intercourse is not illegal for civilians in South Korea, but it is between men in the military.

While there are still significant challenges to overcome, such as the lack of a comprehensive anti-discrimination law, increased social acceptance and high-profile legal victories are providing hope for the LGBTQ community and their allies.

As a traveler, it is essential to be aware of the current state of LGBT rights in the country.

Taking steps to protect oneself, such as consulting with LGBT advocacy groups, can provide invaluable support and resources. Legislative efforts are underway, with bills introduced to the National Assembly that would amend the Civil Code to include same-sex marriage or create civil partnerships for both same-sex and heterosexual couples.

Anti-Discrimination Protections

South Korean national law does not explicitly provide comprehensive anti-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Some major Korean companies have also adopted internal corporate policies prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, though these are not mandated by national law.

Military Service and Sexual Orientation

The legal situation for homosexual individuals within the South Korean military differs significantly from civilian law.

This might be especially necessary if you are a tourist and not familiar with local customs and attitudes.

Connect with support networks: Seek out and engage with local LGBT advocacy groups and organizations that can provide resources, information, and support when necessary.

Remember, situations can change swiftly, and there may always be bad actors in every country.

Stay connected with local LGBT advocacy groups such as the Korean Sexual-Minority Culture and Rights Center (KSCRC) or Solidarity for LGBT Human Rights of Korea. The legal definition of marriage traditionally adheres to a union between a man and a woman, as interpreted from Article 36. Some local governments have enacted their own anti-discrimination policies that include sexual orientation.

Public attitude towards transgender people is similar to gay or lesbians. Though created on a low budget, this LGBTQ movie received good ratings from both critics and audience considering its focus on homosexuality and was selected as South Korea’s submission for the 2006 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

You can watch this movie on Netflix.

No Regret (후회하지 않아)

2006 Drama/Romance

No Regret is known as the first real Korean gay feature with explicit gay scenes directed by an openly gay Korean filmmaker, Leesong Hee-il.