Goo Hara Law Enforcement 2026: South Korea Bars Neglectful Parents from Inheritance

Can a parent who abandoned their child claim their fortune after their death? Starting January 1, 2026, the answer in South Korea is a firm no. The so-called 'Goo Hara Law,' which strips inheritance rights from parents who neglected their childcare duties, is now officially in effect. According to the Supreme Court, this marks a significant shift in the nation's judicial system, prioritizing actual family support over biological ties.

Goo Hara Law Enforcement 2026: A Legacy of Justice

The law is named after the late K-pop star Goo Hara, who passed away in 2019. Following her death, her biological mother—who had been absent for 20 years—reappeared to claim half of her estate. This sparked nationwide outrage and led to a legislative petition by her brother, Goo Ho In. After years of political debate, the bill finally passed the National Assembly in 2024.

How the Law Protects Inheritances

Under the new regulations, ascendants can be disqualified from inheriting if they seriously neglected their duty to support the deceased during their minority. It also applies to those who committed serious crimes or 'extremely unreasonable acts' against the deceased. However, the loss of rights isn't automatic; it must be requested by the deceased's will or co-heirs and approved by the Family Court.