Starting July 19, 2024, a new birth notification and anonymous birth system will be implemented for the first time, ensuring every child’s right to be registered at birth.

While the birth notification system will be in place, parents are still required to report their child’s birth as they have in the past. However, beginning on July 19, 2024, if parents fail to report the birth, the head of the city (Gu), Eup, or Myeon will take the initiative to register the birth using the information provided by the medical institution, with approval from the supervisory court. In cases where parents cannot report the birth, an individual with the duty to report may apply for a deferment of the authorized recording to the relevant city (Gu), Eup, or Myeon head.

Additionally, the anonymous birth system will be introduced alongside the birth notification system. This initiative aims to address the concerns of women who may hesitate to disclose their childbirth due to various difficulties. The goal is to protect these women and promote a safe environment for childbirth and childrearing. When a pregnant woman in crisis seeks anonymous birth or child protection after giving birth, the head of the local counseling agency will notify the relevant birth information to the head of the city (Gu), Eup, or Myeon. This notification will include a de-identified pseudonym for the child’s biological mother and a management number. Upon receiving this notification, the city (Gu), Eup, or Myeon head will obtain permission from the family court to establish the child’s surname and register the birth accordingly.