A multilayer ceramic electronic component may include a ceramic body including an active part in which dielectric layers and internal electrodes are alternately disposed, an upper cover part disposed on the active part, and a lower cover part disposed below the active part, a buffer layer disposed in at least one of the upper and lower cover parts, and external electrodes disposed on end surfaces of the ceramic body. The buffer layer may contain a conductive metal in a content of 1 to 40 vol %.