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Expansion of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Support for Women Aged 25–26 in Busan

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Busan Metropolitan City, led by Mayor Park Heong-joon, announced that beginning July 1, it will expand eligibility for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination cost support to women aged 25–26 (born in 1999–2000) who reside in Busan according to resident registration records.

The city has been operating its HPV vaccination support program since July 2024. Previously, support was provided only to women aged 26 each year, but starting July 1, eligibility will be expanded to include women aged 25.

This measure reflects the fact that the three-dose HPV vaccination schedule (at 0, 2, and 6 months) requires at least six months to complete. Under the previous system, women aged 26 who began vaccination during the second half of the year often could not complete all three doses within the same year and therefore were unable to receive full support. Through this expansion, the city aims to ensure sufficient time for vaccination, help recipients achieve stronger immunity, and strengthen the prevention of sexually transmitted infections.

However, applicants should note that the support period differs depending on year of birth. For women aged 26 (born in 1999), support will be available until December 31, 2026. For women aged 25 (born in 2000), support will continue until December 31, 2027.

Accordingly, women aged 25 may still receive free vaccinations next year even if they do not complete all three doses within this year.

In contrast, women aged 26 are encouraged to begin vaccination as soon as possible so that all three doses can be completed by December 31 of this year.

The subsidy amount is KRW 100,000 per dose regardless of vaccine type, with support available for up to three doses (a maximum total of KRW 300,000). Recipients may choose either the 9-valent or 4-valent HPV vaccine.

As vaccination fees vary among medical institutions, individuals are responsible for any amount exceeding the subsidy. The number of doses eligible for support may also vary depending on previous vaccination history.

HPV is one of the most common viruses causing genital infections. While most infections resolve naturally without symptoms, persistent infection with high-risk genotypes such as HPV types 16 and 18 can lead to cervical cancer and other diseases.

The vaccines used for prevention provide more than 90 percent protection against major HPV-related diseases, including cervical cancer. HPV vaccines are also known as the only vaccines capable of preventing certain cancers.

Ninety percent of cervical cancer cases and 70 percent of anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers are caused by HPV infection.

Vaccinations are available at 350 designated medical institutions throughout the city. Detailed information can be found on the City Infectious Disease Portal (www.busan.go.kr/bsi/index) and on the websites of the 16 district and county public health centers.

On the day of vaccination, individuals must bring documentation verifying their address, such as a resident registration certificate or an electronic certificate available through the Government24 application.

Cho Gyu-yul, Director General of the Citizens’ Health Bureau, stated, “Receiving the HPV vaccine before infection occurs is of utmost importance,” adding, “We encourage eligible residents to visit a nearby medical institution and receive their vaccination conveniently and safely.”