The national flu vaccination program for people aged 65 and older will begin sequentially by age group starting October 6. COVID-19 vaccination will start later, on October 12. Eligible recipients can use designated medical institutions or public health centers near them, regardless of their place of residence.

Flu Vaccination Schedule by Age... Those 75 and Older Start First on the 6th

According to the 2026–2027 season national vaccination plan announced by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), this year's flu vaccination schedule for older adults has been adjusted in consideration of influenza outbreaks appearing earlier than in previous years. The schedule by age group is as follows:

• Those 75 and older: free flu vaccination starting October 6
• Those 70 to 74: starting October 12
• Those 65 to 69: starting October 15

However, high-risk groups such as immunocompromised individuals do not need to wait until their age group's designated date. After consulting with medical staff, they can receive the flu vaccine starting October 6.

COVID-19 Vaccination Begins October 12

The COVID-19 vaccination schedule differs somewhat from the flu schedule. Reflecting vaccine supply conditions, those 70 and older can receive the COVID-19 vaccine starting October 12, while those 65 to 69 will be included starting October 15. Immunocompromised individuals aged 12 and older, as well as patients and residents of infection-vulnerable facilities, can get vaccinated starting October 12 regardless of age-based schedules.

Accordingly, for those 75 and older, the start dates for flu vaccination (the 6th) and COVID-19 vaccination (the 12th) differ. Since start dates vary depending on one's age and vaccine type, it is necessary to check the schedule before visiting.

Vaccination Available at 23,000 Contracted Medical Institutions Nationwide... Bring ID

There are few restrictions on vaccination locations. National vaccination recipients can be vaccinated at contracted medical institutions or public health centers nationwide, regardless of their registered address. About 23,000 contracted medical institutions operate nationwide, and nearby vaccination sites can be found through the local public health center or the KDCA's Vaccination Assistant website.

When visiting a medical institution, people should bring identification for verification. Rather than returning home immediately after vaccination, it is recommended to remain at the facility for about 20 to 30 minutes to check for any adverse reactions.

Vaccination for Children and Pregnant Women Began Earlier on September 21

The national flu vaccination for children and pregnant women began earlier than for older adults, on September 21. According to KDCA figures, as of 6 p.m. on October 1, 1,143,000 children and 76,000 pregnant women had completed vaccination.

Health authorities explain that since the characteristics of circulating viruses may change each year, regular vaccination is important for high-risk groups such as older adults and immunocompromised individuals. Because this vaccination campaign has subdivided start dates by age group, those 65 and older should check their age and whether the vaccine they seek is for flu or COVID-19, and visit a medical institution on the corresponding date.

[This article was written for informational purposes based on materials on the 2026–2027 season national vaccination program released by the KDCA and the Republic of Korea's Policy Briefing. Individual health conditions and vaccination eligibility may vary, so consultation with medical staff is advised if necessary. Detailed schedules and vaccination sites should be confirmed through official KDCA announcements. AI assistance was used in writing and editing this article.]