Cash · Vouchers

National Basic Livelihood Security Livelihood Benefit (국민기초생활보장 생계급여): How to Apply, Amount & Eligibility (2026)

Cash for households at or below 32% of median income (2026: up to KRW 820,556 for 1 person; KRW 2,078,316 for 4 persons)

This page is a translation of the Korean original and is for reference only. The official Korean guidance is the authoritative source for amounts and conditions, so be sure to confirm on the official website before applying. View Korean original (한국어)

Benefit
Selection criterion amount = maximum benefit. 1 person KRW 820,556 / 2 persons 1,343,773 / 3 persons 1,714,892 / 4 persons 2,078,316 / 5 persons 2,418,150 / 6 persons 2,737,905 / 7 persons 3,044,848. Actual benefit = criterion amount minus recognized income. About 40,000 new recipients expected in 2026.
Who is eligible
Households with recognized income at or below 32% of the standard median income (기준 중위소득). The support obligor is excluded only if annual income exceeds KRW 130 million or assets exceed KRW 1.2 billion.
When to apply
Apply anytime. Investigation and decision after application (generally 30 days, up to 60 days if extended)
How to apply
Visit the community service center (주민센터) at your registered address or apply via Bokjiro (복지로, bokjiro.go.kr); a simulation is available. Consultation 129.
Important notes
Benefits start from the application date, so you cannot receive benefits for the period before you apply. Objections within 90 days of the decision.
Note
Can be received together with medical, housing and education benefits. Only the difference is paid when recognized income is at or below the criterion amount, so the amount varies by individual depending on income and assets.
Go to the official guide →

Based on official sources as of 2026년 10월. Amounts and requirements may change, so please confirm with the official guide before applying.

Frequently asked questions

National Basic Livelihood Security Livelihood Benefit (국민기초생활보장 생계급여): who can receive it?

Households with recognized income at or below 32% of the standard median income (기준 중위소득). The support obligor is excluded only if annual income exceeds KRW 130 million or assets exceed KRW 1.2 billion.

National Basic Livelihood Security Livelihood Benefit (국민기초생활보장 생계급여): how do I apply?

Visit the community service center (주민센터) at your registered address or apply via Bokjiro (복지로, bokjiro.go.kr); a simulation is available. Consultation 129.

National Basic Livelihood Security Livelihood Benefit (국민기초생활보장 생계급여): how much will I receive?

Selection criterion amount = maximum benefit. 1 person KRW 820,556 / 2 persons 1,343,773 / 3 persons 1,714,892 / 4 persons 2,078,316 / 5 persons 2,418,150 / 6 persons 2,737,905 / 7 persons 3,044,848. Actual benefit = criterion amount minus recognized income. About 40,000 new recipients expected in 2026.

National Basic Livelihood Security Livelihood Benefit (국민기초생활보장 생계급여): when can I apply?

Apply anytime. Investigation and decision after application (generally 30 days, up to 60 days if extended)