The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced on the 30th that, beginning July 1, more than 1,000 health clubs and swimming pool facilities nationwide will be eligible for income tax deductions.
The cultural expense income tax deduction has primarily applied to cultural and artistic fields such as books, performances, museums, art galleries, newspapers, and movies. This policy expands the target to health clubs and swimming pools to reduce the financial burden on citizens regarding exercise.
Individuals with earned income below 70 million won are eligible for income tax deductions. Eligible individuals can receive a refund of 30% of the facility usage fee, capped at 3 million won.
The entrance fee is fully recognized as a facility usage fee. In cases where costs such as personal training (PT) at health clubs or swimming lessons are not separated from the facility usage fee, only half of the total amount is recognized as the facility usage fee. Purchases of exercise equipment and beverages are excluded from the facility usage fee.
Currently, the number of registered health clubs and swimming pools participating in the program reaches 1,000 nationwide. A list of currently applicable facilities can be confirmed on the 'Cultural Expense Income Tax Deduction website.' New facility registrations are also possible.