Mounjaro Launches in Korea: A Latest Option for Obesity and Diabetes Treatment

South Korea’s obesity treatment landscape has expanded with the arrival of Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a new medication from Eli Lilly. Launched in mid-August 2025, Mounjaro presents a potential alternative to existing treatments like Wegovy (semaglutide) for both type 2 diabetes and weight management. However, as of March 6, 2026, it remains unavailable with health insurance coverage.

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is a dual GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 receptor agonist. It’s approved in Korea for treating both obesity and type 2 diabetes. The drug works by promoting insulin secretion, improving insulin sensitivity, reducing glucagon concentration, delaying gastric emptying, and ultimately reducing food intake and weight [1].

How Effective is Mounjaro?

Clinical trials have demonstrated Mounjaro’s efficacy in weight loss. Studies showed that individuals using Mounjaro experienced weight loss of up to 22.5% over 72 weeks, compared to an average of 14.9% weight loss with Wegovy after 68 weeks [1]. For non-diabetic patients, Mounjaro is estimated to result in approximately 20% weight loss, roughly 5% more than Wegovy [1].

Availability and Prescription Process

Mounjaro began distribution to pharmaceutical wholesalers in Korea on August 14, 2025, with full-scale distribution starting on August 20, 2025 [2]. Prescriptions were expected to be available at medical institutions as early as August 21, 2025. However, tertiary hospitals may experience delays due to the necessitate for Drug Committee (DC) review [2].

Insurance Coverage

Currently, Mounjaro is not covered by South Korea’s national health insurance. Eli Lilly Korea has applied for coverage for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, and the application has passed a Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service subcommittee. However, further steps are required, including evaluation by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Evaluation Committee, drug price negotiations with the National Health Insurance Service, and final approval by the Health Insurance Policy Deliberation Committee of the Ministry of Health and Welfare [4]. Patients currently must pay out-of-pocket for prescriptions.

Eli Lilly’s Investment in Korea

Eli Lilly is actively recruiting for Mounjaro Medical Representative positions in Seoul, indicating a significant investment in the Korean market [3].

Key Takeaways

• Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a new weight loss and diabetes medication available in South Korea.
• Clinical trials suggest Mounjaro may offer slightly greater weight loss than Wegovy.
• As of March 6, 2026, Mounjaro is not covered by health insurance in Korea.
• Prescriptions are available through medical institutions, though tertiary hospitals may have delays.