On April 21, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) announced that the government-funded COVID-19 vaccine would be available to individuals in the fifth and sixth priority groups, i.e., essential personnel who maintain the normal functions of society such as police and military police officers, and staff and people receiving care at long-term care institutions, social welfare institutions and in the social welfare system on April 23.

The CECC clarified that individuals in the fifth priority group who require vaccinations must first obtain approval from the regulatory authority of the respective business, which must then request approval from the CECC. Regulatory authorities have already begun compiling lists of personnel requiring vaccinations. Individuals who have received official notification from the regulatory authority can schedule a vaccination online or via phone at one of 174 hospitals (including outlying islands) designated for COVID-19 vaccination starting April 23. Individuals eligible for the vaccine should arrive on time for their appointment and must present their National Health Insurance Card and other necessary identity documents before being vaccinated. Furthermore, vaccination arrangements for individuals in the sixth priority group, i.e., staff and people receiving care at long-term care institutions, social welfare institutions and in the social welfare system will be handled by the Department of Health of the local government.