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Living in Korea as a foreigner

How to Use Hospitals in Korea as a Foreigner: Health Insurance, Costs, and Real Tips

Living in South Korea as a foreigner comes with many adjustments—new culture, language, and systems. One of the most important aspects of living abroad is accessing healthcare when needed.

How to Use Hospitals in Korea as a Foreigner: Health Insurance, Costs, and Real Tips

Whether you catch the flu or require long-term treatment, knowing how to navigate the Korean medical system is crucial. Unfortunately, many foreigners face confusion when trying to visit hospitals or register for national health insurance. This guide explains how to use hospitals in Korea, how to register for health insurance as a foreigner, and what to expect when visiting a medical facility.


Understanding the Korean Healthcare System

Korea operates a dual healthcare system: private and public. Public healthcare is coordinated through the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS), which covers a large portion of medical costs for registered residents, including foreigners. Most hospitals and clinics in Korea are privately operated but regulated under the NHIS system.

The healthcare system is efficient, modern, and generally affordable, but only if you're registered under health insurance. Without insurance, medical bills can be significantly higher—even for simple consultations or prescriptions.

Types of Medical Facilities in Korea

Understanding the types of medical facilities available will help you choose the right one for your condition.

1. Clinics (의원, Clinic)

  • Small practices run by one or two doctors
  • Ideal for minor illnesses (colds, flu, minor injuries)
  • Shorter wait times
  • Usually no appointment needed

2. General Hospitals (병원, Byeong-won)

  • Medium-sized hospitals with multiple departments
  • Good for non-emergency specialist visits

3. University or Tertiary Hospitals (종합병원 or 대학병원)

  • Large-scale facilities with advanced equipment
  • Excellent for complex diagnostics or surgeries
  • Longer wait times and sometimes higher fees

 

How to Register for Health Insurance as a Foreigner

All foreigners staying in Korea for 6 months or longer must register for the National Health Insurance unless exempted.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Get Your Alien Registration Card (ARC)
    • Visit your local immigration office within 90 days of arrival.
    • This card is essential to access almost all public services in Korea.
  2. Automatic Health Insurance Enrollment (for students, workers)
    • If you are employed or studying at a university, you are usually automatically enrolled.
    • You will receive a letter or bill from NHIS.
  3. Manual Registration (if not automatically enrolled)
    • Visit the nearest NHIS branch office with your ARC, passport, and proof of residence.
    • Fill out the application form.
    • Pay your first monthly premium (usually KRW 130,000–140,000 per month if you are unemployed or self-employed).
  4. Receive your Health Insurance Card (or confirmation)
    • While physical cards are rarely issued now, your registration can be checked digitally at clinics and hospitals.
    •  

How to Use a Hospital in Korea (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Find a Suitable Hospital

Use English-friendly apps and websites like:

  • Kakao Map
  • Naver Map
  • Severance Global Health (for expats in Seoul)

Search using terms like "Internal Medicine," "ENT," or "Dermatology" along with your location.

Step 2: Make an Appointment (Optional but Recommended)

  • Most clinics accept walk-ins, but university hospitals require appointments.
  • You can call the hospital directly or use online reservation systems.
  • Some large hospitals have International Services Desks.

Step 3: Bring Your ARC and Health Insurance Info

  • Present your Alien Registration Card (ARC) at the reception.
  • Let them know if you’re insured with NHIS.

Step 4: Consultation and Payment

  • You’ll usually pay a small portion of the total cost (20%–30%)
  • Basic consultations: KRW 5,000–15,000 (with NHIS)
  • Medications: KRW 2,000–8,000 at a pharmacy

Step 5: Collect Your Prescription

  • Most prescriptions are sent to a designated pharmacy.
  • You need your prescription slip and ARC for pickup.

 

How Much Does It Cost Without Insurance?

ServiceApprox. Cost (Without NHIS)
Basic Doctor Visit KRW 30,000–70,000
Blood Test KRW 50,000–150,000
X-Ray KRW 30,000–80,000
MRI KRW 300,000–700,000
Surgery Starts from KRW 1,000,000+
 

If you’re uninsured, even a short illness can lead to a financial burden.

 

Language Barriers & Interpretation Services

Most Korean doctors speak basic to moderate English, but not all staff members do. If language is a concern:

  • Use interpretation services at larger hospitals
  • Bring a Korean-speaking friend
  • Use translation apps like Papago or Google Translate

Some hospitals in Seoul and Busan offer dedicated foreigner desks for help.

 

Emergency Situations: What to Do

In case of emergencies:

  • Call 119 for ambulance (basic English may be available)
  • Go to the nearest university hospital ER
  • Bring your ARC and prepare for upfront payments (some ERs ask for deposits)

Emergency Room visits typically cost KRW 100,000–200,000 with insurance, and more without it.

 

Tips to Make Your Experience Smoother

  • Always carry your ARC when visiting a medical facility
  • Use clinics for common illnesses to save time and money
  • Pay insurance premiums on time to avoid penalty or cancellation
  • Double-check hospital opening hours—many close on Sundays or Wednesdays
  • Ask for itemized receipts if needed for reimbursement or record keeping

Conclusion

Accessing medical care in Korea doesn't have to be intimidating. As a foreigner, once you're enrolled in the National Health Insurance system and familiar with the types of facilities available, the process becomes smooth and affordable. From minor checkups to emergency care, Korea offers high-quality healthcare—often at a fraction of the cost you'd pay in other countries. By following this guide, you'll know exactly how to handle hospital visits, understand what documents you need, and avoid unnecessary costs. Your health matters, and being informed is the first step toward peace of mind while living in Korea.

 

 

📌 Bonus: Useful Links for Expats

  • NHIS official site: www.nhis.or.kr
  • HiKorea (for visa + health insurance): www.hikorea.go.kr
  • Korea Medical Centers for Foreigners: Search “[City] International Clinic” on Google Maps