Parental Leave for Public Officials Expanded to Include Children Aged 12 and Under

Addressing Childcare Gaps, Strengthening Support for Work-Family Balance
Amendment to the National Public Officials Act in Progress

Going forward, public officials with children aged 12 or younger will also be able to take parental leave for childcare.

On September 18, the Ministry of Personnel Management announced that it plans to raise the age limit for children eligible for parental leave by preparing an amendment to the National Public Officials Act, which will be pre-announced for legislation next month. The current age limit for children eligible for parental leave is 8 years old (second grade in elementary school), but this will be expanded to better meet the actual childcare needs of parents.

Through this revision, it is expected that parents will be able to directly care for their children during critical periods and focus on their work, thereby fostering a 'childcare-friendly public service culture' and improving the 'quality of public services.'

Choi Dongseok, Minister of Personnel Management, stated, "For public officials to work energetically, it is essential to create an environment where they can care for their children without worry," adding, "We will continue to do our best to create a rewarding work environment so that the public service sector can remain accountable to the people."