Recent disputes over National Pension claims have drawn attention after some families found elderly relatives lost benefits because they had not applied for old-age pension payments in time. Following a review, the Ministry of Health and Welfare announced that eligible National Pension participants aged 65 or above with no unpaid premiums will now have their qualifications reviewed automatically and receive old-age pension payments without filing an application.

The old-age pension eligibility age remains 65, and qualification rules are considered clear. The Bureau of Labor Insurance will proactively review eligible cases, removing the need for additional forms or applications. The change is expected to reduce administrative burdens on elderly people and their families while lowering the risk of missed benefits caused by unfamiliarity with the system.

However, only old-age pension payments are covered under the new automatic review mechanism. Other National Pension benefits, including disability pensions, survivor pensions, maternity benefits and funeral benefits, still require supporting documents and separate applications to the Bureau of Labor Insurance.

According to government statistics, around 2.9 million people are currently enrolled in the National Pension program each month, while more than 1.72 million people receive old-age pension and other insurance benefits. The Ministry of Health and Welfare said it will continue reviewing the system to strengthen economic protection for elderly and vulnerable groups.