“Walk and Manage, Get Rewarded”… 2026 Health Lifestyle Practice Support Fund Fully Expanded
Up to 120,000 Won for Preventive Type, 80,000 Won for Management Type, Participation Areas Increased to 50…
“Health pays off.” From 2026, the revised Health Lifestyle Practice Support Fund will fully embody this trend. The government is expanding the scheme, previously operated in select areas, to over 50 regions, and significantly strengthening the reward system for proactive health management. It’s a structure where you can earn points while taking care of your health and receive tangible benefits.
The scheme is broadly divided into ‘Preventive’ and ‘Management’ types. The Preventive type targets individuals aged 20 to 64 with health risk factors identified through health check-ups, such as blood pressure, blood sugar, and Body Mass Index (BMI). Participants set specific goals – walking, weight loss, improving blood pressure/blood sugar – and earn points upon achievement, with a maximum potential reward of 120,000 Won.
The Management type is designed for individuals already diagnosed with chronic diseases like hypertension or diabetes and receiving ongoing care from local clinics. Participants in the primary care chronic disease management pilot program earn points for regular check-ups, medication adherence, and health education, with a maximum potential reward of 80,000 Won.
The support is provided as points, not cash. Participants record their step count and health metrics through smartphone apps or connected devices, earning points for achieving set targets. Accumulated points can be redeemed for mobile vouchers, health-related products, or purchases from designated online stores. In some areas, integration with local currencies provides even greater benefits.
The application process is straightforward. Participants can check their eligibility and apply online through the National Health Insurance Service website or the ‘The Health Insurance’ mobile app. Offline applications are also available at local National Health Insurance Service branches. Confirmation of eligibility is provided via text message or app notification.
A key aspect of the revision is ‘sustainability.’ The system is designed to reward consistent effort and participation in health management, rather than short-term, drastic changes. A policy official explained that the scheme aims to shift the focus from post-illness treatment to preventative and self-management-centered healthcare.
Experts believe the scheme will contribute to mitigating social challenges like aging populations and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. Walking, weight management, and regular medical check-ups directly impact the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. The financial incentive is expected to increase participation and adherence.
However, participation eligibility and specific criteria may vary by region, so prior verification is necessary. The first step is to check if you are eligible through the app or website.
Health isn’t built overnight. But if a daily 30-minute walk, regular check-ups, and small lifestyle changes can earn you up to 120,000 Won annually, the equation changes.
The 2026 Health Lifestyle Practice Support Fund reframes health as an ‘investment’ rather than an ‘obligation.’ It remains to be seen whether this policy experiment will turn consistent effort into both health and economic rewards.
RSS Feed Article Provider: Lifetime News / Registered Reporter: Lee Gi-nam
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