Flu Shots in Korea 2026–2027: Dates and Eligibility
Korea’s publicly funded flu vaccination programme starts on different dates for different groups. For the 2026–2027 season, children and pregnant people start on September 21; older adults start in October according to age. Confirm your eligibility and the clinic’s stock before travelling.
This guide is for English-speaking readers in South Korea. The dates below are Korean programme dates, not a worldwide vaccination schedule.
Programme dates at a glance
| Group | Start date |
|---|---|
| Eligible children aged 6 months–14 years, including one-dose and two-dose groups | September 21, 2026 |
| Pregnant people, regardless of pregnancy stage | September 21, 2026 |
| Adults aged 75 and older | October 6, 2026 |
| Adults aged 70–74 | October 12, 2026 |
| Adults aged 65–69 | October 15, 2026 |
The programme runs through April 30, 2027. The KDCA information page specifies birth-date criteria: January 1, 2012–August 31, 2026 for the child group, with a minimum vaccination age of 6 months, and birth on or before December 31, 1961 for older adults. Previous vaccination history affects whether a child needs one or two doses.
KDCA’s programme page lists the eligibility details and designated clinics. Ask the vaccinator to check the child’s actual age and previous records.
What to ask before visiting
- Does this clinic participate in the programme for my age or eligibility group?
- Is the vaccine currently in stock, and is an appointment needed?
- Which identity and eligibility documents should I bring?
- If pregnant, will a maternity record or pregnancy confirmation be accepted?
- Can the clinic check vaccination records from another country?
For foreign residents and visitors
Do not assume that the age table alone confirms your funding eligibility. Before booking, explain whether you are a resident or short-term visitor and ask the clinic or local public health centre which identification, registration, and coverage checks apply. Ask about the self-pay price if you are outside the funded programme. This avoids treating a Korean age-based schedule as a promise of free access for every visitor.
Can I arrange my COVID-19 vaccine at the same visit?
Check the separate COVID-19 programme first. A flu appointment does not automatically mean you are eligible for a COVID-19 dose that day. Our same-day vaccine guide explains the scheduling question.
Before and after the appointment
Tell the vaccinator about previous severe vaccine reactions, current illness, pregnancy, and relevant medicines. Ask how long to remain for observation and what symptoms should prompt help. Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse after vaccination requires emergency care.
Sources
- KDCA — 2026–2027 influenza national immunisation programme
- CDC — Giving flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same visit
Source review: September 20, 2026. General educational information; this article does not replace medical care or individual advice. Local eligibility, availability, and administrative rules can change.
