12 February 2026 - The entry of Novo Nordisk's GLP-1 receptor agonist Ozempic (semaglutide) into the Korean reimbursement market marks a significant shift in Korea's type 2 diabetes treatment landscape.

While clinical experts welcome the long-awaited financial relief for a drug proven to reduce cardiovascular and renal risks, concerns are mounting over restrictive insurance guidelines that may force patients toward less modern therapies before they can access the medication.

Novo Nordisk Korea held a press conference in Seoul on Thursday to celebrate the inclusion of Ozempic in the national health insurance benefits. The drug, which received approval in Korea nearly four years ago, is now eligible for coverage under specific clinical conditions designed by the Ministry of Health and Welfare.

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