On World Leprosy Day, designated by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KCDC) announced the current status of leprosy cases and government management policies. Over the past decade, Korea has maintained fewer than 10 new leprosy cases annually, with 3 new cases expected in 2025 (1 Korean, 2 foreigners). Leprosy, caused by Mycobacterium leprae, loses 99.9% of its infectivity after a single dose of rifampicin and is fully curable with multidrug therapy. WHO established World Leprosy Day on January 25 to raise awareness about the disease, its treatment, and the importance of eliminating social stigma.
Globally, 172,717 new leprosy cases were reported in 2024, a 5.5% decrease from 182,815 in 2023. Of these, 72% (124,295 cases) occurred in Southeast Asia, including India and Indonesia. In Korea, 5 foreign cases were reported in 2024, and for 2025, 1 Korean (who stayed long-term in the South Pacific) and 2 foreigners are expected. KCDC is expanding free leprosy screenings for foreigners from 15 to 17 sessions per year and introducing mobile weekend screenings to improve accessibility. The agency also maintains a diagnostic network with dermatology and infectious disease specialists and promotes awareness through academic conferences.
The government provides six main leprosy medications and two supplementary drugs free of charge, supporting tailored medical services such as mobile, outpatient, and inpatient care. In 2023, 510,000 people received these services, decreasing to 500,000 in 2024 and 360,000 by September 2025. Many elderly leprosy survivors (average age 80.9 in 2024) require ongoing rehabilitation and care, prompting initiatives like rehabilitation surgery, assistive device provision, facility improvements, and living expense support. Efforts to ensure safe living environments and social reintegration for leprosy patients are ongoing.
KCDC Commissioner Im Seung-kwan emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of leprosy patients, who have long faced social isolation and discrimination. While Korea’s leprosy management is at an advanced level, new cases can still occur due to overseas inflow, highlighting the need for early detection and treatment. WHO identifies 23 high-priority countries for leprosy, including India, Brazil, and Indonesia. Continued public education, anti-stigma campaigns, and enhanced welfare support remain crucial for the complete eradication of leprosy.
This article underscores that leprosy is now a curable disease, thanks to early diagnosis and multidrug therapy. The proactive policies of the Korean government and WHO’s global campaigns serve as exemplary models for infectious disease management. Moving forward, addressing the welfare of elderly survivors and responding swiftly to imported cases will be vital for achieving total leprosy elimination.