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Why Only Blind People Can Become Licensed Masseurs In South Korea

November 20, 2024

In South Korea, a fascinating law exists that reserves the profession of licensed massage therapy exclusively for visually impaired individuals.

This tradition, rooted in a century-old Japanese colonial law, continues to shape livelihoods and ensure opportunities for blind communities in the country.

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The law originated during Japan’s occupation of Korea in the early 1900s. Recognizing the limited job opportunities available to blind individuals, the colonial government established this provision to guarantee a stable income source for them. Even after Korea regained independence, the law endured as a reflection of societal efforts to empower and support people with visual impairments.

Massage therapy is seen as one of the few professions where blindness is not a significant barrier, allowing people with visual impairments to work independently.

The policy also highlights the extraordinary sensory abilities of visually impaired massage therapists, whose heightened sense of touch and attentiveness often set them apart in the field. Clients frequently commend their skill, precision, and deep understanding of the human body.

South Korea’s Constitutional Court has consistently upheld the law granting massage licenses exclusively to visually impaired individuals. A landmark decision in 2008 reaffirmed the constitutionality of this law after debates sparked by a 2006 ruling that briefly allowed sighted individuals to compete for licenses. The court emphasized that the restriction was vital for securing livelihoods for blind people, who have limited employment opportunities.

In 2018, the court once again reaffirmed the law, underscoring its role in safeguarding the rights and welfare of the visually impaired while maintaining strict penalties for violations​

To this day, the practice remains a critical source of income for South Korea’s visually impaired population.