Defoliated Korean DMZ, 1968
US Army photo
Veterans who served in a unit in or near the Korean demilitarized zone (DMZ) anytime between April 1, 1968 and August 31, 1971 and who have a disease VA recognizes as associated with Agent Orange exposure are presumed to have been exposed to herbicides. These Veterans do not have to show they were exposed to Agent Orange to be eligible for disability compensation for these diseases.
VA and the Department of Defense must determine the Veteran’s unit operated in the DMZ area and the Veteran was physically there.
VA's final regulation presuming herbicide exposure for these Veterans took effect on February 24, 2011.
VA benefits
Veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service may be eligible for a variety of VA benefits, including an Agent Orange Registry health exam, health care, and disability compensation for diseases associated with exposure. Their dependents and survivors also may be eligible for benefits.
Learn more about benefits related to Agent Orange exposure.
Need help determining service in Korean demilitarized zone?
VA can help determine eligible service in the Korean demilitarized zone after you file a claim for disability compensation, survivors' benefits, or benefits for children with birth defects.
Veterans may be eligible for an Agent Orange Registry health exam. You don't have to file a disability compensation claim to receive the exam. Contact your local VA Environmental Health Coordinator about getting an Agent Orange Registry health exam.
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