COVID-19 Vaccination Recommendations for 2025-2026 in Korea
Wan Beom Park1, Young Hoon Hwang2, Ki Tae Kwon3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. wbpark1@snu.ac.kr.
Infection & Chemotherapy
|January 4, 2026
Summary
The latest Korean adult immunization guidelines prioritize COVID-19 vaccination with updated vaccines for high-risk groups for the 2025-2026 season. Recommendations focus on JN.1 sublineage variants and offer single-dose strategies, with additional doses for specific populations.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Vaccinology
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- The Korean Society of Infectious Diseases periodically updates adult immunization guidelines.
- Previous updates included COVID-19 vaccination recommendations in 2023 and a 2024-2025 seasonal update.
- This article provides a comprehensive update as of September 2025.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the updated Korean adult immunization guidelines for the 2025-2026 season.
- To review currently authorized vaccines in Korea and their efficacy against dominant JN.1 sublineage variants (LP.8.1, NB.1.8.1, XFG).
- To refine Korea's COVID-19 vaccination strategy and ensure sustained protection in vulnerable populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of the latest scientific evidence and international guidance.
- Analysis of vaccine effectiveness against predominant JN.1 sublineage variants.
- Development of updated vaccination recommendations based on risk stratification.
Main Results:
- Updated recommendations prioritize LP.8.1-adapted vaccines for high-risk groups (≥65 years, ≥6 months with increased risk, facility residents).
- Vaccination is available for all individuals aged 6 months and older.
- A single-dose strategy is generally recommended; older adults and immunocompromised individuals may consider additional doses.
Conclusions:
- The updated guidelines aim to enhance COVID-19 protection for high-risk populations in Korea.
- Recommendations are dynamic and subject to revision based on evolving evidence and epidemiology.
- The strategy focuses on adapting to circulating JN.1 sublineage variants for optimal public health outcomes.
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