Do You Qualify for Korea's Basic Livelihood Benefit?
Korea's National Basic Livelihood Security System pays a Livelihood Benefit to households whose recognized income falls at or below 32% of the Standard Median Income, covering the gap in cash every month. In 2025, that 32% threshold is roughly 760,000 KRW for a single-person household and about 1,950,000 KRW for a 4-person household, rising with household size. "Recognized income" combines actual earnings with an income conversion of assets, so it's often different from your take-home pay alone.
Enter your household size and monthly recognized income to see your eligibility threshold, whether you qualify, and your estimated monthly benefit. Even if you're above the Livelihood Benefit threshold, Medical (40%), Housing (48%), and Education (50%) benefits use higher income caps, so it's worth checking those too — your local community service center (eup/myeon/dong office) can calculate your exact recognized income and help you apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Households with recognized income at or below 32% of the Standard Median Income qualify for the Livelihood Benefit.
The monthly benefit equals the eligibility threshold (32% of median income) minus your household's recognized income.
You won't get the Livelihood Benefit, but Medical (40%), Housing (48%), and Education (50%) benefits use higher thresholds, so you may still qualify for those.