🩺 Accessing Healthcare in Korea: What You Need to Know
South Korea offers a high-quality, affordable healthcare system that is accessible to foreigners living, studying, or traveling in the country. This guide explains how the system works, what to expect when visiting a hospital or clinic, and how to prepare in advance.
📘 Table of Contents
1. National Health Insurance & Private Options
If you're staying in Korea for more than six months, you’re likely required to enroll in the National Health Insurance (NHI). This covers around 70% of costs for doctor visits, treatments, and medication.
Short-term travelers can use private travel insurance or pay out-of-pocket. Many hospitals accept international credit cards.
2. Where to Go: Hospitals vs. Clinics
- Clinics (의원 / 병원): Good for common colds, minor injuries, or check-ups. Fast and efficient.
- General Hospitals (종합병원): Offer specialized departments, including dermatology, ENT, etc.
- University Hospitals: Best for complex diagnoses or surgeries. English support is often available.
3. Costs & Payment
Medical care in Korea is relatively inexpensive. A typical doctor’s visit costs between ₩10,000–₩30,000 ($7–$25 USD) with insurance. Without insurance, prices may range from ₩40,000–₩80,000 ($30–$60 USD).
Pharmacies (약국) are separate from clinics. Be sure to bring your prescription slip.
4. Useful Korean Expressions
어디가 아프세요?
Eodiga apeuseyo?
Where does it hurt?
열이 있어요.
Yeori isseoyo.
I have a fever.
보험이 있어요.
Boheomi isseoyo.
I have insurance.
영어 가능한 의사 있어요?
Yeongeo ganeunghan uisa isseoyo?
Is there a doctor who speaks English?
약국은 어디에 있어요?
Yakguk-eun eodie isseoyo?
Where is the pharmacy?
5. Did You Know?
🏥 According to the OECD, South Korea has one of the highest numbers of doctor visits per person in the world. Locals tend to visit doctors more frequently for preventive care or even mild symptoms compared to Western countries.
6. Learn More with Me on italki
💬 Need help describing your symptoms in Korean? Want to feel confident in a hospital setting? Book a lesson with me on italki and prepare for real-life scenarios with role-plays and useful phrases!
