Korea is well known for its high-quality and efficient healthcare system. However, if you’re a foreigner unfamiliar with the process, visiting a hospital in Korea might seem challenging. Don’t worry! This guide will explain how to find a hospital, make an appointment, use health insurance, and handle emergencies with ease.
Whether you’re living in Korea or just visiting, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the medical system smoothly. 😊
🔹 Types of Hospitals in Korea
Understanding which hospital to visit based on your condition is crucial. Here are the main types of medical facilities in Korea:
🏥 1. Major Hospitals (Tertiary Hospitals)
✔️ Large hospitals like Samsung Medical Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul National University Hospital
✔️ Best for serious conditions, surgeries, and specialized treatments
✔️ Appointment required (Long wait times for non-urgent cases)
✔️ Foreign patient centers available (English, Chinese, and Japanese services)
🏥 2. General Hospitals
✔️ Mid-sized hospitals with multiple specialties
✔️ Treat a variety of conditions, including specialized care
✔️ Lower costs than major hospitals
🏥 3. Local Clinics (Doctors’ Offices, Internal Medicine Clinics)
✔️ Best for minor illnesses (cold, flu, minor infections, stomach issues)
✔️ No appointment needed – walk-ins accepted
✔️ Fast service and lower medical fees
🏥 4. Oriental Medicine Clinics (Hanbang, 한의원)
✔️ Offers acupuncture, herbal medicine, and cupping therapy
✔️ Useful for muscle pain, fatigue, and digestive issues
🏥 5. Pharmacies (약국 – Yakguk)
✔️ Get prescription medicine after a doctor’s visit
✔️ Over-the-counter (OTC) medications like painkillers and cold medicine available
📌 How to Find a Hospital in Korea
✅ Use Naver Maps, Kakao Maps, or Google Maps to search for hospitals nearby
✅ Visit National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) website for foreigner-friendly hospitals
🔹 Step-by-Step Guide to Visiting a Hospital in Korea
✅ 1. Finding a Hospital & Making an Appointment
-
For major hospitals: Online or phone appointment required
-
For local clinics: Walk-in visits are accepted
📌 How to Find English-speaking Doctors
✅ 2. Registering at the Hospital
📌 What to Bring
✔️ Passport or Alien Registration Card (ARC)
✔️ Health Insurance Card (if applicable)
✔️ Briefly explain your symptoms (Google Translate or Papago app can help)
✅ 3. Consultation & Examination
-
Meet with the doctor and discuss symptoms
-
Additional tests (X-ray, blood test, etc.) may be required
✅ 4. Payment & Getting Medication
-
Payment can be made via cash or credit card
-
Get a prescription and visit a nearby pharmacy
🔹 Health Insurance & Medical Costs in Korea
✅ 1. National Health Insurance (NHI)
✔️ Foreigners staying in Korea for over 6 months are automatically enrolled
✔️ Covers 50% or more of medical expenses
✔️ Monthly premiums depend on income level
📌 How to Check Your Insurance Status
-
Visit the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) website
✅ 2. Private/Travel Insurance
✔️ If you’re a short-term visitor, travel insurance can cover medical expenses
✔️ Some hospitals accept international insurance (Check in advance)
✅ 3. Medical Costs Without Insurance
✔️ If you don’t have insurance, you must pay full price
✔️ Local clinics (cheaper) are recommended over major hospitals
📌 Estimated Medical Costs in Korea (with Insurance)
-
General consultation: $5–$20
-
ER visit: $30–$100
-
MRI or CT scan: $100–$500
🔹 What to Do in a Medical Emergency in Korea
🚑 1. Visiting an Emergency Room (ER)
🔹 24/7 emergency care available at major hospitals
🔹 Call 119 for an ambulance (English support available)
📌 When to Visit the ER
✅ Severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, breathing difficulties → ER is necessary
❌ Mild cold, stomachache, or headache → Visit a local clinic instead
📞 2. Emergency Medical Hotlines for Foreigners
✔️ 1339 (KCDC Call Center) – Medical inquiries and hospital information
✔️ 120 Dasan Call Center – General foreigner assistance in Seoul
✔️ Seoul Global Center (02-2075-4180) – Medical and translation services
🔹 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Where can I find an English-speaking doctor in Korea?
👉 Check hospitals with Foreigner Medical Centers on the NHIS website
Q2. Can I visit a hospital without insurance?
👉 Yes, but you must pay full medical costs (which can be expensive)
Q3. Can I get medicine directly from a pharmacy without seeing a doctor?
👉 Yes for OTC drugs (painkillers, cold medicine)
👉 No for prescription drugs (you must visit a doctor first)
Q4. Can I get vaccinated in Korea?
👉 Yes, vaccines are available at hospitals and public health centers (appointment required)
🔹 Final Tips – Healthcare in Korea Made Easy!
Korea’s healthcare system is fast, affordable, and foreigner-friendly. By knowing where to go, how to use insurance, and how to handle emergencies, you can easily navigate the medical system.
📌 Key Takeaways
✅ Visit a local clinic for minor illnesses to save time and money
✅ National Health Insurance (NHI) covers 50%+ of medical costs
✅ In an emergency, call 119 or 1339 for assistance
Now you’re ready to visit a hospital in Korea with confidence! 😊 Stay healthy and safe! 🚑
