- International age is now the official age in Korea (since June 28, 2023).
- Korean age (1 at birth, +1 every New Year) is informal only.
- Year age (this year − birth year) is still used for alcohol, tobacco and military service.
Three ways Koreans count age
| Name | How it works | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| International age 만 나이 | 0 at birth, +1 on each birthday | Laws, contracts, medical care |
| Year age 연 나이 | Current year − birth year | Alcohol and tobacco, military service |
| Korean age 세는 나이 | 1 at birth, +1 every January 1 | Casual conversation only |
Example
For someone born on December 25, 1995, on October 22, 2026:
- International age: 30 (birthday not yet passed this year)
- Year age: 31
- Korean age: 32
A baby born on December 31 used to turn "2" the next morning in Korean age — one reason the law was changed.
Korean Age Calculator →See all three ages from your date of birthWhat changed in 2023
From June 28, 2023, ages in Korean laws, contracts and official documents mean international age unless a law says otherwise. A contract that says "60 or older" now means 60 in international age.
Where year age still applies
- Alcohol and tobacco: you can buy them from January 1 of the year you turn 19, whatever your birthday.
- Military service obligations follow year age.
- School entry: children born in the same calendar year start school together.
Asking someone's age
Koreans often ask age to decide how politely to speak. Saying your birth year ("I was born in '98") is the clearest answer and avoids any confusion about which system you mean.
FAQ
Why do Koreans ask my age?
Age affects the level of politeness and titles people use with each other. It is usually just a way to get the relationship right, not rudeness.
Do Koreans still use Korean age?
Many people still use it casually, especially older generations, but official matters now use international age.