Leave · Work

Maternity Leave Before and After Childbirth (출산전후휴가, Maternity Leave): How to Apply, Amount & Eligibility (2026)

90 days (100 days for premature births, 120 days for multiple births) of paid leave. For the first 60 days (75 days for multiples) the employer pays ordinary wages, and for the following 30 days (40 days for premature births, 45 days for multiples) the government (employment insurance) pays.

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)

Who is eligible
Female workers who are pregnant (Article 74 of the Labor Standards Act). The leave itself can be requested regardless of employment insurance enrollment period (the benefit requires 180 days of employment insurance).
When to apply
90 consecutive days before and after childbirth (100 days for premature births, 120 days for multiples). The post-childbirth portion of the leave must be at least 45 days (at least 60 days for multiples). Apply to the employer before the leave starts.
How to apply
Apply to the employer for maternity leave (stating the expected delivery date, etc.). If not granted or if treated unfavorably, contact 1350 or the Labor Portal maternity protection report center.
Important notes
It is mandatory to secure at least 45 days (60 days for multiples) after childbirth. If there is a risk of miscarriage or premature birth, the pre-birth leave can be split (confirm the statutory splitting requirements with the workplace).
Note
Applies including workplaces with fewer than 5 employees (the leave itself). For how benefits are paid, see the separate item (maternity-leave-benefit). Dismissal is prohibited during the leave and for 30 days after.
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

Maternity Leave Before and After Childbirth (출산전후휴가, Maternity Leave): who can receive it?

Female workers who are pregnant (Article 74 of the Labor Standards Act). The leave itself can be requested regardless of employment insurance enrollment period (the benefit requires 180 days of employment insurance).

Maternity Leave Before and After Childbirth (출산전후휴가, Maternity Leave): how do I apply?

Apply to the employer for maternity leave (stating the expected delivery date, etc.). If not granted or if treated unfavorably, contact 1350 or the Labor Portal maternity protection report center.

Maternity Leave Before and After Childbirth (출산전후휴가, Maternity Leave): how much will I receive?

90 days (100 days for premature births, 120 days for multiple births) of paid leave. For the first 60 days (75 days for multiples) the employer pays ordinary wages, and for the following 30 days (40 days for premature births, 45 days for multiples) the government (employment insurance) pays.

Maternity Leave Before and After Childbirth (출산전후휴가, Maternity Leave): when can I apply?

90 consecutive days before and after childbirth (100 days for premature births, 120 days for multiples). The post-childbirth portion of the leave must be at least 45 days (at least 60 days for multiples). Apply to the employer before the leave starts.