Two-week parental leave available for child's school closure or illness

South Korea is set to introduce a new short-term parental leave system, allowing parents to take leave for one to two weeks. This new provision aims to assist parents in managing childcare responsibilities when their children's kindergartens or schools are closed, or when a child falls ill.

Furthermore, the revised regulations will expand eligibility for parental leave for fathers. Previously, fathers could only take leave after the birth of their child. Under the new rules, they will also be permitted to take leave while their spouse is pregnant. These significant changes are included in an amendment to the Enforcement Decree of the Equal Employment Opportunity and Work-Family Balance Assistance Act and the Employment Insurance Act.

The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced these changes, which were deliberated by the State Council on the 11th. The aim is to provide greater flexibility and support for working parents in balancing their professional and family lives.