Epidemiology and Management of Hepatitis C in Korea

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains one of the major causes of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma in Korea.This review summarizes recent epidemiological trends, disease burden, diagnostic approaches, prevention strategies, and management policies based on the 2025 Korean Association for the Study of the Liver guidelines and the 2024 Liver Disease White Paper.The nationwide anti-HCV seroprevalence is approximately 0.7%, with a higher prevalence observed among older adults and high-risk populations, including those who inject drugs, patients undergoing hemodialysis, and patients with hemophilia.The introduction of pan-genotypic direct-acting antivirals has revolutionized HCV management, achieving sustained virologic response rates exceeding 95% and dramatically improving prognosis.Despite therapeutic advancements, challenges regarding early detection, limited screening coverage, and incomplete linkage-to-care remain.To achieve the World Health Organization 2030 HCV elimination goal, Korea must implement a nationwide screening program, strengthen infection surveillance, and improve public awareness and policy coordination to reduce disease burden and achieve equitable access to treatment.