Yes, home births are legally permitted in South Korea under strict conditions. The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) regulates midwifery practices, requiring licensed midwives to oversee home deliveries in compliance with the Medical Service Act and Midwifery Act. Since 2023, the MOHW has expanded oversight to include mandatory reporting of home births to local health authorities, aligning with 2026 national maternal health policy updates emphasizing risk mitigation.
Key Regulations for Home Births in South Korea
- Licensed Midwife Requirement: Only midwives registered under the Midwifery Act may attend home births; unlicensed attendants face penalties under the Medical Service Act.
- Mandatory Reporting: Home births must be reported to the local Community Health Center within 7 days, with follow-up inspections by public health officials.
- Risk Assessment Protocol: Midwives must conduct pre-birth risk assessments; high-risk pregnancies (e.g., breech, multiples) are prohibited from home delivery per MOHW 2024 guidelines.
Violations of these regulations may result in midwife license suspension or criminal liability under the Criminal Act for unauthorized medical practice. The 2026 policy shift introduces stricter liability frameworks for midwives, including mandatory malpractice insurance coverage.