KPOP Meaning
Korean age is the traditional way of counting age in Korea: a baby is one at birth and everyone gains a year on January 1. According to Korea's Ministry of Government Legislation, the so-called unified international age act took effect on June 28, 2023, so ages in laws, contracts and official documents mean international age (zero at birth, plus one each birthday) unless stated otherwise. To convert, subtract one from Korean age if this year's birthday has passed, or two if not. School entry age, military service and the age for buying alcohol and tobacco still count by calendar year as exceptions.
Usage
Used when comparing age systems, e.g. "22 in Korean age".
Examples
- Someone born in December turns two in Korean age on the following January 1.
- Since June 28, 2023, ages in Korean laws and contracts mean international age unless stated otherwise.
In context
Sources
- Korea.kr policy briefing, Ministry of Government Legislation (2023-06-26)
What we checked
Korea.kr policy briefing, Ministry of Government Legislation (2023-06-26)