The Ministry of Health and Welfare stated that Korea should explore avenues for permitting stem cell treatments beyond the scope of research.

The ministry addressed a written query from Rep. Kang Gi-yun of the People Power Party, who raised concerns about South Koreans seeking stem cell therapy abroad.

Kang inquired with the health and welfare ministry about the current status of overseas stem cell treatments and the necessity of regulatory adjustments via amendments to the Advanced Regenerative Medicine and Advanced Biological Products Act.

The ministry explained, "While we lack official statistics on overseas stem cell therapy, we estimate that approximately 10,000-20,000 individuals seek such treatment annually, relying on media reports."

This practice involves significant expenses, as Koreans pursue treatment options not permitted in their home country but accessible in neighboring nations.

The ministry went on to say that most such cases include patients with cancer, musculoskeletal, and rare diseases receiving stem cell therapy.

In Korea, cell culture requires approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety under the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act before it can be available in the market.

According to the ministry, Japan and Taiwan permit the procedure through a relatively straightforward approval process. In both countries, the procedure becomes institutionalized as soon as the government approves a delivery plan submitted by a medical institution.

The ministry said it is in favor of implementing an advanced regenerative medicine procedure system.

“We believe that a new system is needed to enhance the current law's provisions for research purposes, with the ultimate goal of reducing the cost of the initial treatment. We are committed to actively engaging in the National Assembly's discussions regarding relevant legislation," the ministry added.