The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of South Korea has approved the establishment of the Byun Hee-soo Foundation, aiming to support LGBTQ+ rights, after a lengthy 20-month wait. The decision was made during the NHRC’s 6th Permanent Committee meeting, where three out of four members voted in favor of the foundation, highlighting that it met both formal and substantial requirements for non-profit designation. The approval was seen as a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ advocacy in South Korea, with some committee members expressing regret over the undue delays faced by the foundation's preparatory committee.

The timeline leading up to the approval was contentious, with allegations of intentional delays amidst broader societal opposition to LGBTQ+ issues in South Korea. After the Byun Hee-soo preparatory committee submitted its application in May 2024, it went for nine months without a formal review, which fueled speculation about political motivations for the holdup. The case eventually advanced to the NHRC but faced several rejections before finally obtaining the green light. Recent court rulings also criticized the NHRC for its inactivity regarding the foundation’s application, describing their failure to approve or deny the request over nearly two years as illegal.

In contrast, the NHRC also voted on the establishment of two anti-LGBT organizations, which were both rejected. These groups have been associated with far-right anti-LGBTQ+ activities, and their rejections appear to align with the growing recognition of LGBTQ+ rights within South Korea. The contrasting outcomes of these applications underscore the ongoing tensions between advancing LGBTQ+ rights and the persistent resistance from conservative factions within the country. This development signals a significant shift toward greater acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ advocacy, despite the hurdles that remain.