The pilot, to be operated this year, is designed to ensure that anyone can access sanitary pads at the moment they are needed, reflecting that the products are essential items used repeatedly over long periods.
The ministry will hold a briefing for local governments on April 30 and accept applications through May 21. It plans to select participating localities in early June, considering factors such as population and regional characteristics, and to launch the program in phases starting in July.
Under the plan, sanitary pad dispensers will be installed at major public facilities, including community centers, public libraries, cultural centers, welfare centers, public health centers, family centers and youth centers, for free use when needed.
Pads stocked in the dispensers will be products that meet Ministry of Food and Drug Safety standards. In high-traffic locations, the ministry plans to install machines that can hold larger quantities and automatically tally usage to support efficient operations and a stable supply.
Minister Won Min-kyung said the pilot will “strengthen women’s health rights and create an environment where anyone can freely use sanitary pads in emergencies,” adding that the ministry will work with local governments to implement the program without disruption.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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