This study, which is based on literature, investigated the backgrounds related to the enactment of both Korean law for the welfare of the aged and Japanese one, their structures and contents. The previous researchers indicated that Korean law for the welfare of the aged does not satisfy the demand for the welfare of the aged and social changes caused by the rapid increase of the aged. Considering the previous studies, the writer tries to present some ideas about the desirable course which Korean law for the welfare of the aged should take in the 21st century. First. the law should be revised so that the provisions of the senior citizens\' rights could be more concrete and systematic. Second, the government should give more support to home service system for the old. Third, the compulsory employment system, under which the old people should be employed, should be taken into consideration. Fourth the declaratory provisions should be changed into more realistic ones. Fifth, the institutionalization of medical service should be materialized. Sixth, old people should take part in more social activities through the volunteer work. Finally, the theories of the welfare of the aged which are suitable to Korea should developed.