South Korea has apologised after a youth counselling manual wrongly grouped homosexuality with delinquency, prompting calls for change from LGBTQ+ advocates. The government says the wording will be removed and the guidance reviewed, while separate shelter rules have also been updated to protect young people from discrimination. Here’s what the changes mean for LGBTQ+ youth support.
A counselling guide put homosexuality in the wrong category
A manual used by South Korea’s youth counselling services listed homosexuality alongside sexual violence, theft and drug-related problems. The classification drew criticism because the guide is intended to help young people access counselling, healthcare, education and welfare support. (Sources: Korea Herald; Fridae)
The wording appeared in editions published in December 2019 and December 2025. After the issue became public, LGBTQ+ advocates and human rights organisations called for its removal. (Sources: Fridae; NGO News)
The government says the wording will be removed
South Korea’s Ministry of Gender Equality and Family acknowledged that the classification had caused concern and apologised to sexual minority young people and others affected. The Korea Youth Counselling and Welfare Institute said the wording had been carried over from older reference material during the manual’s preparation. (Sources: Korea Herald; Herald Business)
The ministry has ordered the classification removed and plans to review the manual with counselling experts. It also intends to provide additional human rights training for youth companions and staff at counselling and welfare centres. (Sources: Fridae; NGO News)
Shelter guidance has changed, too
Separate rules for youth shelters were revised in August following feedback from support organisations and others. Under the updated guidance, shelters must not refuse admission or treat young people differently because of sexual orientation or gender identity. (Sources: Korea Herald; NGO News)
Staff are also expected to record reasons for restricting entry or asking a resident to leave. If a young person is struggling to adjust, the guidance says staff should consider counselling, mediation or changes to their living arrangements before deciding to discharge them. (Sources: Herald Business; NGO News)
Why the correction matters
A manual’s wording can shape how frontline staff understand the young people they support. So removing a harmful classification is an important step, but training and consistent practice will matter just as much when a young person seeks help. (Sources: Korea Herald; Fridae)
The World Health Organization removed homosexuality from its classification of mental disorders in 1990, with the decision taking effect in 1994. That history makes clear why accurate, respectful language in official guidance matters. (Source: WHO)
What happens next?
The review offers the government a chance to make the manual clearer and more supportive, rather than simply deleting one category. For young people seeking help, the practical test will be whether counselling and shelter services feel safe, fair and welcoming. (Sources: Fridae; NGO News)
It's a welcome correction; now the focus turns to making sure it reaches the people who need support.
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