On February 4, 2021, the Seoul High Court made a ruling that paved the way for same-sex couples to gain legal status in South Korea. It was a landmark ruling as it is the first of its kind in South Korea.
The court ruled that same-sex couples should be allowed to register as "family relations" under the country's civil law and enjoy the same rights and duties as heterosexual couples. Recently, in February 2023, the same court issued another groundbreaking ruling.
According to the latest ruling, South Korea now officially grants legal status to same-sex couples across the country. This ruling is a landmark victory for same-sex couples and the LGBTQ+ community. These communities have been subjugated for many years because of gender stereotypes.
Implications of the Ruling
This ruling has major implications for same-sex couples in South Korea who have long been denied basic rights. On the other hand, these rights have been enjoyed by their heterosexual counterparts. Thus, this includes legal protections including:
- Inheritance rights
- Hospital visitation rights
- The ability to register for joint housing.
In other words, same-sex couples nationwide can now register themselves as spouses. Based on that, they will have access to all the fundamental rights.
Furthermore, the ruling has been welcomed by LGBTQ activists in South Korea as a major step forward for same-sex couples. It is seen as an important victory in the fight for equal rights and recognition of same-sex relationships in the country.
What Happens Now?
The court's ruling is binding. This means that same-sex couples can now legally register their relationship under civil law. Along with that, same-sex couples are legally allowed to tie the knot. This ruling is a huge win for LGBT+ rights in South Korea, as same-sex couples are now granted the same legal protections and recognition that heterosexual couples have had up until now.
Despite this victory, there is still work to be done. Many LGBTQ+ Koreans still face discrimination, harassment, and even violence in their daily lives. It is
Nonetheless, this ruling is a major step forward for same-sex couples in South Korea and could be the first of many positive changes for the LGBTQ community.
Final Verdict
The ruling by the Seoul High Court is a historic step forward for same-sex couples in South Korea. It gives same-sex couples legal status under civil law and provides them with rights and protections that they were previously denied.
In other words, same-sex is now legally allowed in South Korea. The LGBTQ+ community can enjoy the freedom of choosing their life partners without the fear of being judged by anyone. Thus, this ruling is an important victory in the country's fight for equal rights and recognition of same-sex relationships.