The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency announced on the 5th that it will introduce 5.3 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, with vaccinations for high-risk groups set to begin in October for the 2025-2026 season.
The contracted vaccine is the LP.8.1 strain vaccine recommended for use by the World Health Organization (WHO). It will import 3.28 million doses from Pfizer and 2.02 million doses from Moderna. The aim is to minimize vaccine disposal. Expired vaccines during the vaccination period will be used through exchange. Remaining vaccines can be returned within 5% of the contracted amount.
The COVID-19 vaccines have previously been pre-purchased by pharmaceutical companies entirely with national funds. This time, the government has signed an introduction contract through procurement. Im Seung-kwan, head of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, noted, "We will ensure that there are no disruptions in vaccine supply."