A multilayer ceramic electronic component includes: a ceramic body including dielectric layers and first internal electrodes and second internal electrodes disposed to face each other and alternately stacked with the respective dielectric layers interposed therebetween; a first external electrode connected to the first internal electrodes; a second external electrode connected to the second internal electrodes; and a protective layer disposed on the ceramic body, the first external electrode, and the second external electrode, wherein the protective layer includes an adhesion assisting layer and a coating layer.