The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs of South Korea announced plans to expand compensation for independence activists’ descendants up to the second generation and improve medical accessibility for elderly veterans. To this end, the number of contracted medical institutions will be doubled by 2030, and quasi-veterans hospitals will be designated in regions without dedicated facilities to provide equal benefits.
The ministry is advancing eight key initiatives based on four strategic pillars: appropriate compensation for sacrifice and dedication, healthcare and welfare for a healthy life, a culture of remembrance with the people, and future-oriented innovation in veterans’ affairs. These were presented during a presidential briefing, including enhanced national responsibility for injured soldiers and the introduction of a presumption system for occupational diseases.
To prevent social isolation among elderly lone veterans, the ministry plans to establish a customized prevention system using AI-based technologies such as door sensors for real-time care services. Welfare safety nets will be strengthened through expanded long-term care facilities, lunch programs at veterans’ centers, and outreach to remote areas via private welfare services.
The ministry is also preparing for future-oriented veterans’ policies through veterans diplomacy and digital transformation. This includes bidding to host the 2029 Invictus Games, building cooperative models between veterans and corporations, and introducing AI systems for faster veterans’ benefit reviews. A digital veterans’ market and AI-based healthcare and job recommendation services are also being developed.