The Statistics Korea announced on the 1st that the 9th revision of the Korean Standard Classification of Diseases and Causes of Death (KCD) will be implemented starting next year. KCD is a standard classification that can be used for compiling statistics on causes of death and various forms of health issues.
This revision is part of a regular update conducted since the 8th revision in 2020, maintaining the existing classification system (ICD-10) while reflecting updates from international classifications and changes in the domestic health environment.
The revision included the addition of new subdivision codes and the removal of subdivision codes with low usage frequency.
Additionally, medical terminology was reorganized with consistent detailed review criteria established. Relevant index terms were also refined to enhance the understanding of classifications and the appropriateness of code application.
The classification of neoplasm types was also reorganized based on the latest oncology international classification (ICD-O-3.2) to reflect the most recent changes.
Statistics Korea noted that "the accuracy and consistency of disease codes will be improved, aiding health statistics, insurance claims, epidemiological research, and increasing the reliability of foundational data for future health policy development."