Medical Service

Guide to Living in Korea 

Medical Service 

Medical Service 

ISC 

Investor Support Center 

Invest Korea Plaza 2nd Fl. Yeomgok-dong, 

Seocho-gu, Seoul 

Tel: 1600-7119 

Fax: 02) 3497-1611

Medical Services 

Medical Services for 

Foreigners in Seoul 

For foreigners living in a new country, the lack of knowledge on the medical 

system in the new environment can be a great concern in seeking healthrelated 

quality of life. In general, medical facilities in Korea have medical 

specialists and state-of-the-art medical equipment and provide high quality services. 

Across the country, there are many clinics and hospitals. However, you 

might have difficulty communicating at hospitals without English-speaking staff. 

With the number of foreigners increasing in Korea, there is more need for medical 

services serving foreigners, and more hospitals and clinics have been striving 

to provide quality medical services for foreigners. 

Medical System in Korea 

Medical institutions in Korea include general hospitals, hospitals, medical clinics, 

dental hospitals and clinics, oriental medical hospitals and clinics, midwifery clinics, 

and public health centers. Korean medical facilities are divided into three categories 

according to the number of medical departments operating and the size 

of the facilities. 

First-tier medical 

facilities 

Second-tier medical facilities 

Third-tier medical 

facilities 

First-tier medical facilities 

include public health centers, 

medical practitioner’s offices, 

and maternity hospitals. They 

provide a comprehensive medical 

service for early symptoms 

of diseases. 

Second-tier medical facilities 

have more than four medical 

departments and medical specialists. 

They provide medical 

services for inpatients and outpatients. 

Medical facilities with 

30 to 500 beds are generally 

categorized as second-tier hospitals. 

Third-tier medical facilities have 

medical specialists in all different 

medical departments. This type 

of facility includes general hospitals 

or hospitals belonging to 

medical schools with more than 

500 hospital beds. 

* In order to use medical services in third-tier medical facilities, a patient should 

receive a medical treatment referral letter from first or second-tier hospitals. 

Without referrals, the patient cannot get health insurance coverage. Foreigners 

can go to international clinics in third-tier hospitals directly, but it is more expensive. 

Emergency services are available at second- and three-tier hospitals. 

2 Guide to Living in Korea 

Medical Service 3

Emergencies 

Emergencies 

The following services are available 

for emergencies. 

1) 119 Rescue Service 

119 is the phone number for emergencies. 

119 reports are received by the 

119 briefing room. Once the caller’s 

location is identified, a rescue team 

will respond quickly to offer the caller 

professional assistance, including sending 

an ambulance and taking those 

needing care to the nearest hospital. 

Once a foreigner calls 119, a staff 

member in the 119 briefing room puts 

the call on three-way calling by connecting 

it with translators of the Korea 

National Tourism Organization. 

Foreigners calling 119 outside Seoul 

can get free translation service provided 

by BBB (Before Babel Brigade). 

Languages available for translation 

services include English, Japanese and 

Chinese. 

When you call 119 by a wired phone 

or mobile phone, dial 119 without the 

area code. When you use a pay phone, 

press the red button for emergency 

and dial 119. When you use a wired 

or mobile phone, your phone number 

and location are automatically identified. 

Along with medical services, 119 

Rescue Service provides assistance 

with fires and other emergencies. 119 

Safety Report Center works to prevent 

emergencies and provide services for 

disasters and other safety-related 

issues. Civil applications for the report 

of emergencies are available online 24 

hours. The Web site (www.119.go.kr) 

is not yet available in English, so in 

order to report emergencies, you need 

to go to the site and click “” 

(“report”) first. And, on the next page, 

hover your mouse on the second tab of 

the upper menu bar, you will see two 

language options: Korean & English. By 

clicking English, you can fill out an 

application in English. You can also 

report emergencies by text message 

using a mobile phone and putting 119 

as a recipient’s number. In addition, 

you can report emergencies through 

fax at 1544-9119. Whatever reporting 

method you choose, the 119 briefing 

room reacts to emergency situations as 

quickly as possible. 



2) The Emergency Medial 

Information Center - 1339 

Foreigners can dial 1339, the number of 

the Emergency Medical Information 

Center. The Center is open 24 hours 

and provides relevant medical information 

for the caller’s emergency situations. 

Callers can use this service by 

dialing the number directly without 

area codes. However, when a call is 

made with a mobile phone or outside 

Seoul, callers need to dial (02) 1399. 

3) Medical Referral Service (MRS) 

The Seoul Help Center (SHC) operates 

a 24-hour Medical Referral Service 

(MRS). Its medically trained, Englishspeaking 

staff provides foreign residents 

and visitors with information and recommendations 

on medical facilities and 

services. 

- Hours: 8 am to 8 pm 

(emergency only) 8 pm to 8 am 

- Tel 010-4769-8212 or 010-8750-8212 

- e-mail: medicalreferral@seoul.go.kr 

4) International SOS Korea Ltd. 

Established in 1989, International SOS 

Korea Ltd. helps expatriates in Korea. It 

provides medical assistance services, as 

well as evacuation and repatriation services. 

Western trained doctors offer 

medical advice over the phone 24 

hours. Services are available in English, 

Japanese, and French. However, service 

is provided only to members. 

- Tel (02)790-7561(24 hours) 

General Hospitals 

for Foreigners (Seoul) 

Gangbuk Area 

1) Seoul National University Hospital 

Established in 1885, Seoul National University (SNU) Hospital is Korea’s first 

national hospital. As the nation’s leading health care provider, Seoul National 

University Hospital has been dedicated to providing high quality medical services 

TIP BOX 

Using emergency rooms 

Once you get to an emergency room, wait for a 

nurse. If you have an insurance card, give it to the 

nurse and fill out a form for treatment. After that, 

preliminary exams will be given to patients to see if 

they need emergency treatments. Those without 

health insurance should pay the whole amount of 

their medical expenses. The costs vary, depending on 

whether patients are insured or not, as well as what 

kind of treatments they receive. 




over the past 100 years. The hospital consists of the Main Hospital, the 

Children’s Hospital, the Dental Hospital, and the Clinical Research Institute. 

SNU Healthcare System Gangnam Center (Tel (02) 2112-5503) specializes in 

comprehensive health examination and also provides medical services for foreigners. 

Seoul National University Hospital has 1,600 hospital beds, 300 medical 

professors, and 4,000 staff members. The hospital operates a 24-hour emergency 

center. Moreover, in an effort to serve medical needs of foreigners, the hospital 

operates its International Clinic. 

• International Clinic 

Seoul National University Hospital has run its International Healthcare Service 

(IHS) since 1999. Bilingual doctors in each department help foreigners receive 

relevant medical treatments and meet their medical needs. IHS provides necessary 

documents in English such as certificates regarding outpatient status, hospitalization, 

receipts, and birth. Overseas insurance is accepted if the insurance 

company is affiliated with the hospital. 

=> 24-hour English service provided 

- Tel (02) 2072-2890 or 011-9150-2890 (24 hours) 

- Hours: 9 am to 6 pm weekdays / 9 am to 1 pm Saturdays 

- 24-hour emergency care center: Tel (02) 2072-2473~7 

- Address: 28 Yeongeon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul 

- Website: www.snuh.org/pub/index_frame.jsp 

- Languages: English and Japanese 

- Email: his@snuh.org 

- Transportation: Hyewha Station (Line 4, exit 3) 

2) Kyunghee University Medical Center 

Kyunghee University Medical Center has five medical colleges (Medicine, 

Dentistry, Oriental Medicine, Pharmacy, and Science of Nursing). The hospital 

has 1,150 beds and 2,500 employees, including 750 doctors, dentists, and oriental 

doctors. The hospital specializes in oriental medicine, health screening, neuroscience, 

orthopedics, dentistry, and cosmetic/plastic surgery. Kyunghee University 

Medical Center operates an international clinic in the Oriental Hospital. For 

other medical treatments, English speaking staff at the customer service department 

can help foreign patients with their medical needs. English receipts are provided, 

and overseas health insurance is accepted if the insurance is affiliated with 

the hospital. 

• International Clinic at Oriental Hospital: Tel (02) 958-1897 

- Customer Service Department: Tel (02) 958-9618 

* For medical treatments in other departments, Customer Service Department 

provides translation services for foreigners and assists them with their medical 

needs. 

- Address:1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 

- Website: www.khmc.or.kr 

- Transportation: Hoegi Station (Line 1) 

TIP BOX 

Receiving medical treatments 

Making medical appointments 

for your treatments is 

a convenient way for you to 

use medical services. You 

can make appointments by 

visiting or calling hospitals. 

You can also use the hospital’s 

Web site and fax when 

making an appointment. 

When you visit a hospital to 

make an appointment, bring your insurance card with you. After filling out an 

appointment application form, submit it at the Patient Affairs Department 

window. 




3) Hanyang University Medical Center 

Under the motto ‘Love in Truth and in Deed,’ the Hanyang University Medical 

Center (HUMC) has been committed to providing the highest quality health care 

service since its establishment in 1972. The hospital has 1,000 beds, 1,890 

employees, including 168 professors and 580 nurses. As one of largest hospitals 

in Asia, the hospital specializes in rheumatism, heart disease, neurology, and 

urology. In particular, many foreigners have received neurology and urology 

treatments. In this hospital, English receipts are provided to foreigners. Foreign 

patients can receive insurance coverage if the overseas insurance company is Blue 

Cross / Blue Shield or one of the companies that have a contract with Hanyang 

University Medical Center. 

• International Healthcare Center 

The International Healthcare Center is part of International Cooperation 

Hospital. The center has served many foreign patients, including U.S. Service 

members. The center is equipped with the highest quality facilities. Trained specialists 

and nurses with fluent English language skills serve foreign patients and 

provide comprehensive medical care service for foreigners. 

- Tel (02) 2290-9553 

- Hours: 9 am to 5 pm weekdays 

- 24 hour Emergency Care Center: 

Tel (02) 2290-8282, 011-790-0307, 010-6270-2296 

- Address 17 Haengdang-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 

- Website: http://hmc.hanyang.ac.kr 

- Transportation: Hanyang Univ. Station (Line 2, 7, exit 1) 

4) Korea University Anam Hospital 

Korea University Anam Hospital has put a great effort into providing the best 

medical care service and becoming a specialized medical center that meets global 

standards. The hospital has 938 beds, 462 doctors, and 587 nurses. The hospital’s 

specialized clinic center includes General Medical Check-up Center, 

Cardiovascular Center, Respiratory Center, and Cancer Center. 

In particular, medical specialists in Cardiovascular Center boast the highest 

surgery rates in the field. The hospital is also renowned for treating Digestive 

Disease and prostate cancer and colon and rectal cancers. In July, the hospital 

opened its Robot Surgery Center to provide more advanced medical treatments 

to patients. The hospital also remodeled its General Medical Check-up Center to 

establish the best medical check-up center as possible. The hospital does not have 

an international clinic, but the hospital’s Customer Service Department offers 

assistance to foreign patients and provides translation services in English, 

Japanese, and Chinese. English receipts are provided for foreign patients, but 

overseas health insurances are not accepted in paying for medical treatments. 

- Customer Service Department: Tel (02) 920-5894 

*Customer Service Department provides medical assistance for foreigners, 

including translation services. 

- Address: Anam-dong 5-Ga, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 

- Website: http://anam.kumc.or.kr/eng/index.jsp 

- E-mail: sjyoun@kumc.or.kr 

- Transportation: Anam Station (Line 6) 

5) Soonchunhyang University Hospital 

Soonchunhyang University Hospital has 22 medical departments, 120 professors 

and 1200 staff members. It has seven sub-departments in the Department of 

Internal Medicine. Endeavoring to keep abreast of the age of globalization, it has 

operated the international clinic and offered medical treatments to 4,000 foreigners 

annually. The hospital has about 800 beds. It has provided free medical services 

at welfare facilities and villages without doctors and has provided free surgeries 

to some patients with cataract and heart diseases. 60 percent of 100 specialists 

at the hospital have study abroad experience to have expertise in advanced 

medicine. 




6) Yonsei University Health System 

Established in 1885, Yonsei University Health System has led to the advancements 

in Western medicine in Korea. Yonsei University 

Health System is comprised of five hospitals and has more 

than 3,000 beds. The hospital’s specialization includes cancer, 

digestive disease/endoscopy, health screening, heart disease, 

international healthcare service, kidney disease, neuroscience, 

ophthalmology, organ transplantation, rehabilitation, 

spine/disk, stroke/brain, and vascular. 

Through offering the latest medical technology, Yonsei 

University Health System continues to strive to become East 

Asian’s hub health system. 

Severance Hospital: Yonsei University hospital 


International clinic offers comprehensive services to foreigners. Payment is made 

through the International Clinic. English receipts are provided, and overseas 

health insurance is accepted depending on whether the insurance company is 

affiliated with the hospital. 


- Tel (02) 709-9158 


- Emergency: 011-321-9161 

- Address: 657-58 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 

- Website: www.schuh.ac.kr/international/international_01_01.asp 

- Transportation: Dankook University stop by bus (No.110, 140, 142, 144, 400, 

402, 405, 420, 470, 471, 472) 

• International Health Care Center (IHCC) 

The IHCC at Severance Hospital opened in 1962. Doctors and nurses with fluent 

language skills (English and Chinese) provide high quality medical care and comprehensive 

treatments for foreigners in Korea. The clinic’s basic services include 

physical examinations, pediatric care, child and adult immunizations, travel vaccinations, 

STD screening and treatment, general internal medicine, and treatment for 

various other medical conditions. English receipts are provided, and overseas 

health insurance is accepted if the insurance company is affiliated with the hospital. 


- Tel (02) 2228-5800 

- Hours: (morning) 9:30 am to 12 pm, (afternoon) 2 pm to 5 pm weekdays 

8:30 am to 12 pm Saturdays 

- Emergency: 010-9948-0983 

- Address: 134 Sinchon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 

- Website: www.yuhs.or.kr/en/ 

- Transportation: Sinchon Station (Line 2, exit 3) 




TIP BOX 

Paying for medical treatments 

In order to pay medical fees, foreigners need to go to the Administration office 

of the hospital. At some hospitals with international clinics, you can make 

payment through the International clinics. Or international clinics can help 

you prepare documents needed for the payment. Hospitals with international 

clinics provide foreigners with receipts in English. The medical expenses 

depend on whether you have insurance. Some hospitals accept overseas health 

insurances if the insurance company is affiliated with the hospital. When foreigners 

use overseas health insurance, they need to pay first and request a 

claim to their insurance companies. Most hospitals take credit cards for payment. 

In case some hospitals do not accept certain credit cards, make sure to 

bring sufficient cash with you. 

Pharmacies 

Gangnam Area 

1) Asan Medical Center 

As one of the best medical service providers in Korea, Asan Medical Center has 

seven regional hospitals. The hospital has 1,144 doctors and 2,265 beds. As a 

medical institution striving for globalization of medical service in Korea, Asan 

Medical Center has established an institutional alliance with Harvard Medical 

School. Its specialist centers include the Cancer Center, Organ Transplant 

Center, Prostate Center, and Cholelithiasis Center. 


The hospital operates the International Clinic for foreign patients. The 

Emergency Clinic and Pediatric Emergency Clinic are available 24 hours 7 days a 

week. English receipts are provided and overseas health insurance is accepted if 

the company is affiliated with the hospital. 

There are so many pharmacies in 

Korea, and they are easy to find. 

Typical pharmacies have the 

Korean sign of or . At 

Korean pharmacies, you can buy 

both prescribed and over-thecounter 

medications. Medicines 

that can be purchased at pharmacies include digestives, nutrients, vitamin, 

aminopyrine, some cold medicines, etc. Items that should be purchased with a 

prescription include antibiotics, hormone drugs, pain killers for serious symptoms, 

etc. On your first visit to a pharmacy, present your medical insurance 

card. It is advised that foreigners with any allergies inform their doctor and 

pharmacist. In addition, for those who were taking prescribed medication 

before entering Korea, bringing a sufficient supply and a copy of the prescription 

will make it convenient to continue taking the medication. 





- Tel (02) 3010-5001~2 

- Hours: 8:30 am to 4 pm weekdays / 8:30 am to 11 am Saturdays 

- Emergency: Tel (02) 3010-3331~4 

- Address: 388-1 Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul 

- Website: www.amc.seoul.kr/eng 

- Transportation: Seongnae Station (Line 2) 

2) Cha Medical Center 

Since it was established in 1960 as the Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cha Medical 

Center has grown into one of top-notch health care providers in Korea. Cha 

Medical Center is well-known as the best quality hospital for women in the nation, 

and it has best reputation in infertility treatments. It has 13 medical departments, 

including obstetrics and gynecology, internal medicine, surgery, urology, pediatrics, 

and neurology. 

• International Health Services (IHS) 

English speaking doctors, nurses and coordinators serve foreign patients’ medical 

needs. According to the hospital Website, all the doctors in the departments of 

OB/GYN, pediatrics, internal medicine, and surgery have resident training in the 

USA and Europe and have board certificate from abroad. The IHS provides full 

assistance to foreign patients from registration to payment. English receipts are 

provided, and overseas health insurance is accepted if the insurance company is 

affiliated with the hospital. 

- Tel (02) 3468-3127 

- Hours: 9 am to 5 pm weekdays 

9 am to 12:30pm Saturday 

(* Hours for OB/GYN patients are extended to 5 pm) 

- Emergency: 010-4707-9179 (available 24 hours without holiday) 

- Address: 650-9 Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 

- Website: kangnam.chamc.co.kr/ic/ 

- Transportation: Yeoksam Station (Line 2, exit 7), Hakdong Station (Line 7, exit 4) 

3) Jaseng Hospital of Oriental Medicine 

Jaseng Hospital of Oriental Medicine is an oriental medicine hospital specializing 

in treating spinal diseases. The hospital has 100 medical specialists and 100 beds. 

In 2006, more than 2,000 foreigners received medical treatments in the hospital. 

It operates 24-hour information service available at (02)3218-2167. Its specialization 

includes Joint/Rheumatism (Bone & Joint Clinic, TMJ Clinic, Golf 

Clinic), Oriental Medicine, Spine/Disk (Lumbar Disc Clinic, Cervical Disc 

Clinic), and International Healthcare Service (International Clinic). 


Jaseng International Clinic has English, Japanese, Chinese and German-speaking 

staff. In order to provide more convenient medical services for foreigners, this 

hospital offers one-to-one interpretation service for foreign patients. English 

receipts are provided, and overseas insurance is accepted if it meets the requirements 

of the hospital. However, the extent of coverage is relatively limited compared 

to Western-style hospitals because this is an oriental hospital. 




- Tel (02) 3218-2105/2167 

- Address: 635 Shinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 

- Website: www.jaseng.net 

- Languages: English, Japanese, German, Chinese 

- Transportation: Apgujeong Station (Line 3, exit 2) 

4) Kangnam St. Mary’s Hospital 

Kangnam St. Mary’s Hospital practices Catholic values in providing quality 

healthcare service and is actively involved in community services. It is the first 

general healthcare institution that earned an ISO 9001 certification in 2005 that 

recognizes a patient-oriented institution providing quality healthcare. The hospital 

has 169 specialized clinics, 26 clinical divisions, 16 medical centers, and 852 

beds. The hospital’s specialization includes ophthalmology, health screening 

(total health screening service), cancer, and organ transplantation. 

5) Samsung Medical Center 

Samsung Medical Center has been dedicated to achieving a goal of providing the 

finest healthcare services through technological innovation and top-notch medical 

staff. Samsung Medical Center is known for its state-of-the art medical 

equipment, including Samsung Medical Information System, Picture Archiving 

and Communications System, Clinical Laboratory Automation System, and 

Logistics Automation System. The hospital has 40 departments, eight specialty 

care centers, and 100 specialized clinics, as well as 1,278 beds and 4,000 employees, 

including 900 doctors and 1,100 nurses. The hospital specializes in pediatrics, 

internal medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR), cardiology 

and obstetric. 

• International Health Services (IHS) 

The IHS provides inpatient and outpatient treatment, consultations and referrals. 

• International Health Care Center (IHC) 

Highly qualified medical staff consisting of Korean and foreign doctors and nurses 

at IHC provide medical consultations and information to foreigners residing 

or traveling in Korea. The IHC offers primary care for foreign patients. The center’s 

one-stop medical service includes diagnosis, medical report and insurance 

forms in English, as well as emergency medical services for foreigners. The center 

has staff who can speak English and Russian. English receipts are provided, and 

overseas health insurance is accepted if the insurance company is affiliated with 

the hospital. 

- Tel (02) 590-2932 

- Address: 505 Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu, 137-040 Seoul 

- Website: www.cmckangnam.or.kr/eng/main/index.jsp 

- Tranportation: Seocho station (Line 2, exit 7) 

Express Bus Terminal Station (Line 3, exit 2, 7, Line 7, exit 3, 4) 

Seocho Station (Line 2, exit 7) 




According to the hospital Website, the IHS has hold first place as the best international 

clinic in Korea, with an average of 7,000 international patients. English 

receipts are provided, and overseas health insurance is accepted if the insurance 

company is affiliated with the hospital. 


- Tel (02) 3410-0200 


- Emergency: Tel (02) 3410-2060 

- Address: 50 Irwon-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 

- Website: english.samsunghospital.com 

- Email: his@samsung.co.kr 

- Transportation: Irwon Station (Line 3, exit 1) 

6) Yongdong Severance Medical Center 

Yongdong Severance Hospital has 23 clinical departments and 8 specialized centers. 

• International Health Care Center (IHCC) 

Since its opening in 2003, the IHCC at Yongdong Severance Hospital has served 

foreigners residing or traveling in Korea. Service coordinators with fluent language 

skills (English, Japanese, French) assist foreign patients with their medical 

needs. The hospital has 860 beds available to foreign patients. English receipts 

are provided, and overseas health insurance is accepted if the insurance company 

is affiliated with the hospital. 

- Tel (02) 2019-3600 

- Hours: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm weekdays 

- Emergency: 012-940-2662(pager) 

- Address: 142-92 Dogok-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 

- Website: www.yuhs.or.kr/en/contents.asp?cat_no=13668 

- Transportation: Dogok Station (Line 3, exit 2), Nonhyeon Station (Line 7, exit 

2), Seolleung Station (Line 2, exit 3) 

Hospitals for 

Foreigners 

in Other Areas 

1) Gyeonggi-do 

Ajou University Medical Center 

Cheongsim Medical Center 

Gachon University Gil Medical 

Center 

National Cancer Center 

Soonchunhyang University 

Hospital Bucheon 

Inha University Hospital 

www.ajoumc.or.kr Tel (031) 219-4311~2, 4010 

San 5 woncheon-dong, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do 

www.csmc.or.kr Tel (031) 589-4641 

460 Songsan-ri, Seorak-myeon, Gapyeong-gun Gyeonggi-do 

www.gilhospital.com/english Tel (032) 460-8216 

1198 Guwol-dong, Namdong-gu, Incheon 

www.ncc.re.kr Tel (031) 920-1934 

111 Jeongbalsan-no, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do 

www.schbc.ac.kr Tel (032) 621-5554 

1174 Jung-dong, Wonmi-gu, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do 

www.inha.com Tel (032) 890-3300 

7-206 Shinheung-dong 3-ga, Jung-gu, Incheon, Gyeonggi-do 



Hospitals in Other Areas 

2) Daejeon 

Eulji University Hospital 

Konyang University Hospital 

3) Busan 

Boomin Hospital 

Good Gang-An Hospital 

Inje University Pusan Paik 

Hospital 

Parkside Rehabilitation 

Hospital 

Good Moonhwa Hospital 

Kosin Medical Center 

Changwon Fatima Hospital 

www.emc.ac.kr Tel (042) 611-3399 

1306 Dunsan-dong, Seo-gu, Daejeon 

http://www.kyuh.co.kr/eng/eng_01.htm 

Tel (042) 600-9057 

www.buminhos.co.kr/english/01_intro/sub_01.php Tel (051) 330-3000 

380-4 Deokcheon-1-dong, Buk-gu, Busan 

www.gang-an.or.kr Tel (051) 610-9182 

40-1, Namcheon-dong, Suyoung-gu, Busan 

www.paik.ac.kr/en/ga/ Tel (051) 891-2624 

Gaegeum Busanjin-gu, Busan 

www.parkside.co.kr Tel (051) 629-8000 

731-1 Daeyoen-dong, Nam-gu, Busan 

moonhwa.or.kr Tel (051) 644-2002 

899-8 Beomil-2-dong, Dong-gu, Busan 

www.kosinmed.or.kr Tel (051) 990-6155 

34 Amnam-dong, Seo-gu, Busan 

4) Gyeongsangnam-do 

www.fatimahosp.co.kr Tel (055) 270-1259 

212 Myeongseo-dong, Changwon, Gyeongnam 

6) Daegu 

Kyungpook National University 

Hospital 

Yeongnam University Medical 

Center 

Hanmi Hospital 

(Orthopedic treatments only) 

Kyemyeong University 

Dongsan Medical Center 

7) Ulsan 

Ulsan University Hospital 

8) Gwangju 

Chonnam National University 

Hospital 

Chosun University Hospital 

Kwangju Christian Hospital 

9) Jeollabuk-do 

knuh.knu.ac.kr Tel (053) 422 –1141 

200 Dongduk-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 

med.yu.ac.kr Tel (053) 620-350 

317-1 Daemyeong 5-dong, Nam-gu, Daegu 

www.bkh.kr Tel (053) 593-4106 

248-9 Igok-dong, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 

194 Dongsan-dong, Jung-gu, Daegu 

www.uuh.ulsan.kr Tel(052) 250-7220 

290-3 Jeonha 1-dong, Dong-gu, Ulsan 

www.cnuh.com Tel (062) 220-6018 

8 Hak-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju 

hosp.chosun.ac.kr/eng/eng_02.asp Tel (062) 220-3770 

588 Seoseok-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju 

www.kch.or.kr Tel (062) 650-5691 

264 Yangnim-dong, Nam-gu, Gwangju 

5) Gyeongsangbuk-do 

kumi.chamc.co.kr Tel (054)450-9870 

Kumi Cha Medical Center 

855 yeonggok-dong, Gumi, Gyeongbuk 

Jesus Hospital 

Wongkwang University 

Hospital 

www.jesushospital.com Tel (063) 230-8350 

300 Junghwasan-dong 1-ga, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeonbuk 

wmc.wonkwang.ac.kr Tel (063) 859-0123 

344-2 Sinyong-dong, Iksan, Jeonbuk 



Private Clinics 

Private Clinics for 

Foreigners in Seoul 

Children’s Hospitals 

for Foreigners 

1) International Clinic 

- Specialization: primary care, psychiatric 

services, travel vaccination, 

ADD evaluation, STD screening, and 

anti-aging medicine. 

- Tel (02) 790-0857~9 

- Hours: 9 am to 6 pm weekdays/ 9 

am to 3 pm Saturdays 

- Address: 5 Fl, Hannam Bldg, 737-37, 

Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu 

- Website: 

www.internationalclinic.co.kr 

2) Seoul Foreign Clinic 

- Specialization: internal medicine and 

psychiatry 

- Tel: (02) 796-1871 

- Hours: 9 am to 6 pm weekdays/9 am 

to noon Saturdays 

- Address: 5-3 Hannam-dong, 

Yongsan-gu 

3) Seoul Polyclinic 

- Specialization: general medicine, 

pediatrics, and medical screening 

- Tel (02)732-3030 


to 11 am Saturdays 

- Address: 3rd Fl. Hanaro Bldg, 194-4 

Insa-dong, Jongno-gu 

- Website: www.hanaromf.com 

4) Dr. Chung’s 

Cardiology Clinic 

- Specialization: cardiology, but also 

offers service for general medicine 

- Tel (02) 3676-1770 

- Hours: 9:30 am to 5 pm weekdays/9:30 

to noon Saturdays/ closed 

on the third Saturday of the month) 

- Address: 22-2 Dongsomun-dong, 

Songbuk-gu 

5) Dr. Kim’s 

International Clinic 

- Specialization: general medicine and 

psychiatry 

- Tel (02) 790-0857 


to 3 pm Saturdays 

- Address: 5 Fl. International Clinic 

Building, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu 

Name Tel Address 

Seoul National University 

Children’s Hospital 

Hamsoa Children’s Clinic (02) 563-4700 

Dr. Kim’s Children’s 

Clinic 

(02) 2072-2890 28 Yeongeon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul 

(02) 765-7582 

3 Fl. A&A Bldg. 130-29 Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnamgu, 

Seoul 

5 Fl. Sangok Bldg, 109-4 Hyewha-dong, Jongno-gu, 

Seoul 

Lucina Lady’s Hospital (02) 922-7474 351-4 Samseon-dong Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 

TIP BOX 

Vaccination 

It is very important for babies to receive vaccination in a timely manner to 

enhance their immune system and to keep them healthy. Therefore, parents need 

to be aware of the kinds of vaccination available and when their children should 

receive vaccinations. For vaccinations, you can go to either a public health center 

or hospital. Necessary vaccinations and when they are needed are as follows. 

Periods 

Vaccination 

0-1 weeks Hepatitis B 

0-4 weeks BCG 

2 months Hepatitis B, DTaP, poliovirus 

4 months DTaP, poliovirus 

5 months MMR, Japanese encephalitis 

6 months DTaP, poliovirus 

8 months DTaP 

4-6 years DTaP, poliovirus, MMR 

14-16 years Td 



Free Medical Clinics 

Ophthalmological Hospitals 

Free Medical 

Clinics for Foreign 

Workers in Korea 

1) Good Neighbor Clinic at Kyungdong 

Church 

Good Neighbor Clinic operated by Kyungdong Church offers 

free medical services to foreign workers living in Korea. 

- Tel (02) 2274-0161 

- Hours: 2:30 to 5:30 pm (the fist and third Sundays of the 

month) 

- The main gate of the Kyungdong Church, 26-6 Jangchung 

dong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul 

- Accessible from Dongdaemun Station (Line 2, 4, 5, exit 4) 

from Dongguk Univ. Station( Line 3, exit 2,3) 

- http://www.kdchurch.or.kr 

2) Migrant Workers’ Hospital 

As a free medical facility, Migrant Workers’ Hospital provides medical services to 

migrant workers who cannot afford high medical costs. This facility has served 

about 20,000 foreign workers since 2004. During weekdays, approximately 200 

people visit this facility while they have about 500 people on weekends. 

- Tel (02) 863-9966 

- Hours: 9 am to 9 pm weekdays/ 9 am to 1 pm Saturdays/ 1 pm to 6 pm 

Sundays 

- Address: 137-22 Garibong-dong, Guro-gu, Seoul 

- Website: www.mwhospital.com 

Ophthalmological 

Hospitals for Foreigners 

Ophthalmology is a highly developed medical field in Korea. Specialized 

clinics, university hospitals, and other ophthalmologic research centers 

have been dedicated to providing cutting-edge medical technologies in 

ophthalmology. With up-to-date medical equipment and prominent opthalmological 

specialists, Korea ophthalmology offers high-quality medical service. 

Vision correction surgery has gained popularity, and many people have received 

vision correction treatment. 

Seer & Partner Eye 

Institute 


(02) 511-0567 

(Emergency: 010- 

7714-0567) 

Hangil Eye Hospital (032) 503-3322 

Saevit Eye Hospital 

(031)900- 

7700/7736 

86-1, Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 

543-36 Bupyeong-dong, Bupyeong-gu, Incheon, 

Gyeonggi-do 

1334-3 Baekseok-dong, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si, 

Gyeonggi-do 



Dental Clinics 

Dental Clinics for 

Foreigners 

There are many dental hospitals in Seoul that provide high quality dental care 

services. The following dental clinics offer medical services for foreigners. 

Kyunghee University 

Dental Hospital 


Seoul National University 

Dental Hospital 

Tel (02) 958-8114 

Tel (02) 2072-0753 

1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu 

275-1 Yeongeon-dong, Jongno-gu 

Kim Minhee Dental Clinic Tel (02) 3472-7528 1337-17 Seocho-dong Seocho-gu 

Korea Dental Clinic Tel (02) 733-1633 1 Fl. Sunggonghoi Bldg. 3-7 Jeong-dong, Jung-gu 

UMD Children’s Dental 

Clinic 

Tel (02) 556-2253 

2 Fl. Samhwan Art Nouveau II Bldg. 938 Daechidong, 

Gangnam-gu 

IP & I Dental Clinic Tel (02) 735-1468 

Somerset Palace Seoul Suite #306, 85 Susong-dong, 

Jongno-gu 

TIP BOX 

“Why is it good to receive dental treatments in Korea?” 

For certain dental treatments, it is much 

cheaper to receive dental care in Korea 

than in other countries, including the 

United States and Australia. Therefore, 

many Koreans studying and living abroad 

visit Korea for their dental treatments. 

Cheap dental treatments in Korea include 

the extraction of wisdom teeth, scaling, 

implant, filling, crown, etc. According to 

Kim Minhee Dental Clinic in Seoul, the 

cost of extracting wisdom teeth in 

America is about 10 times that of Korea. 

Also, Dental treatments such filling, 

crown, and scaling in Korea are half the 

price of what is available in America. For 

example, in Korea, extracting wisdom tooth costs between 50,000 to 100,000 

won (about $ 53 to $ 106) while it costs about $1, 000 in America. 



Ob-gyn Clinics 

Ob-gyn Clinics for 

Foreigners 


Cha Medical Center (02) 3468-3127 650-9 Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu 

Samsung Medical Center (02) 2020-5500 52-25 Chungmuro 5 ga, Jung-gu 

Ewha Womans University 

Dongdaemun Hospital 

Ewha Womans University 

Mokdong Hospital 

Dr. Sung’s Obstetric and 

Gynecology Clinic 

(02) 760-5114 70 Jongno 6-ga, Jongnogu 

(02)2650-5114 911-1 Mok-dong, Yangcheon-gu 

(02) 790-0802 2 Fl. Chungwha Bldg., Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu 

Dr. Yoo’s Ob-gyn Clinic (02) 2608-1011 1031-12 Hwagok 5-dong, Gangseo-gu 

Lucina Lady’s Hospital (02) 922-7474 351-4 Samseon-dong, Seongbuk-gu 

Mizmore Obgyn Clinic (02) 452-3570 4, 5 Fl. Nonghyp Bldg. 199-1 Guui-dong, Gwangjin-gu 

Dr. Hwang’s Ob & Gyn Clinic (02) 695-3500 114-12 Hwagokbon-dong, Gangseo-gu 

Sinchon Yeonsei Hospital (02) 337-7582 13-3 Changjeon-dong, Mapo-gu 

TIP BOX 

Why are the rates of Cesarean section so high in Korea? 

Korea’s C-section rates are the highest in the world. From 1985 to 1998, the 

rates increased six-fold. There are several explanations. First, the cost of a C- 

section is higher than that of natural birth, thus doctors prefer C-section. Also, 

in terms of medical accidents, the Supreme Court imposes stricter regulations 

on natural birth than on C-section treatment. As a result, doctors tend to prefer 

C-section to natural birth to avoid legal responsibilities for medical accidents. 

Another reason some pregnant women favor C-sections over natural 

birth is to avoid labor. A survey on C-section indicated that many women who 

chose C-section were not fully aware of the advantages and disadvantages of 

the treatment. 



TIP BOX 

Dermatology 

Clinics & Plastic 

Surgery Clinics for 

Foreigners 

Plastic Surgery in Korea 

Korea is renowned for its highly advanced plastic surgery. Plastic surgery in Korea 

has been very popular, and the industry has been rapidly growing as people are 

getting more and more concerned about their appearance. Experienced plastic surgeons 

have striven to develop more advanced plastic surgery techniques. Popular 

plastic surgery treatments in Korea include ophthalmoplasty, rhinoplasty, facial 

lift, and liposuction. Korea 's cutting-edge surgery techniques have attracted many 

people from Korea and from abroad. Many Korean celebrities have had plastic 

surgery. Due to Hanryu (Korean wave) fever throughout Asia, many women from 

China, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Singapore want to emulate their favorite Korean 

stars and come to Korea for plastic surgery. Fortunately for those interested in 

these procedures, the popularity of plastic surgery in Korea and the drastic 

increase in the number of plastic surgery hospitals have resulted in much cheaper 

treatment costs than what’s available in Japan or America. 


Teng Teng Skin Clinic (02) 337-4066 

6 Fl. Daewha Bldg., 162-13 Donggyo-dong, Mapogu, 

Seoul 

Orthopedics 

Hospitals 

Leejiham Dermatology 

Clinic 

(02) 567-5900 

Changlim Bldg., 816-3 Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, 

Seoul 


Arumdaunnara Beauty 

Clinic Network 

BK Dongyang Plastic 

Surgery Clinic 

YIDEMEI Plastic Surgery 

Clinic 

(02) 3420-2251 

(02) 3446-0446 

3 & 5 Fl., Gangnam Center Bldg. 825-13 Yeoksamdong, 

Gangnam-gu, Seoul 

Rex tower 7 & 8 Fl Nonhyeon-dong, 1-3 Gangnamgu, 

Seoul 

(02) 548-3039 20-6 Jamwon-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul 

Wooridul Spine Hospital 

Kim & Song United 

Orthopedics Hospital 

(02) 513-157/8385, 

Call Center : 1577- 

7100 

47-4 Chungdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 

(02) 2138-0075 957-14 Dogok-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 

Knee & Spine Hospital (02) 538-0075 682-23 Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 

Wooshinhayng Hospital (02) 926-750 85-9 Anam-dong, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 



Oriental Hospitals 

Oriental Hospitals 

for Foreigners in 

Seoul 

Unlike Western-style hospitals, oriental hospitals provide traditional medical 

treatments such as acupuncture and herbal medicine. These treatments 

concentrate on strengthening the body’s immune system, relieving 

pain and other symptoms, and restoring balance and harmony in the body. Out 

of many oriental hospitals, Kyunghee University Hospital is one of the most wellknown 

oriental hospitals in the nation. The following is the list of oriental medical 

hospitals for foreigners in Seoul. 

TIP BOX 

Korea’s Traditional Sasang Constitutional Medicine 

Sasang Typology is Korea’s traditional medical typology created by Lee Jae-ma in 

1894. Influenced by Neo-Confucianism, Sasang Typology categorizes people into 

four types according to individual constitutional characteristics: Tae-yang, Taeeum, 

So-yang, and So-eum. Based on these characteristics, Sasang Constutional 

Medicine diagnoses individuals’ symptoms and suggests treatments to prevent diseases. 

This classification explains the psychological and physical aspects of each 

type of a person, including physical characteristics, person tendencies, behavior 

patterns, organ functions, favorable and unfavorable foods, etc. According to 

Sasang typology, Yang implicates the concepts of the sun, light, ascend, increase, 

up, outside, etc. On the other hand, Eum includes such concepts as moon, 

descend, decrease, inside, down, etc. For example, according to the theory, a person 

with Tae-yang type tends to be masculine, progressive, and creative. 

However, Tae-eum person is regarded as feminine and conservative. 

Kyunghee University Oriental Hospital 

Haedang Oriental Hospital 

Conmaul Oriental Hospital 

Gangseo Oriental Hospital 

Indang Oriental Hospital 

Hamsoa Children’s Clinic 

Girin Oriental Hospital 

Jaseng hospital of Oriental medicine 

Gangnam In Oriental Medical Clinic 

Dongseo Oriental Hospital 

www.kyunghee.or.kr Tel (02) 958-8114 

Hoegi Station (Line 1) 

www.haedang.com Tel (02) 335-1010 

Hapjeong Station (Line 2, 6, exit 6 ) 

www.conmaul.co.kr Tel (02) 3475-7114 

Seoul Nat’l Univ. of Education Station (Line 2, 3, exit 8) 

www.e-kimedi.com Tel (02) 3662-7986 

Balsan Station ( Line 5, exit 6) 

www.indang.com Tel (02) 557-3906/7 

Gangnam Station ( Line 2, exit 2) 

www.hamsoa.com Tel (02) 563-470 

Dogok Station (Line 3, exit 2) 

Nonhyeon Station (Line 7, exit 5) 

Apgujeong Station (Line 3, exit 2) 

Chongdam Station (Line 7, exit 1) 

Sinchon Station (Line 2, exit 3, 4) 



Health Insurance 


Foreigners who are registered at the Immigration Office and meet certain 

conditions can apply for national health insurance. There are two categories 

of medical insurance: the employee insured (Workplace Health 

Insurance) and self-employed insured (Community Health Insurance). The coverage 

of health insurance starts with the date of employment. 5 percent of one’s 

salary is paid for health insurance. Starting January 2006, it was mandatory for 

all foreign workers in Korea to be registered for national health insurance. 

However, this requirement changed according to the additional revision of 

National Health Insurance. 

1) Qualifications for enrollment 

Foreigners employed by a company in Korea with more than five employees are 

eligible for workplace medical insurance. Medical insurance also covers foreigners’ 

spouses and children. In order to put the insurance in effect, employers 

should enroll their employees in a medical insurance program. Those not eligible 

for Workplace Medical Insurance are entitled to enroll for Community Health 

Insurance (self-employed insured). 

Those who intend to stay in Korea for more than one year under one of the 

following visas can get health insurance coverage. 

• D-1(Culture & arts), D-2 (Study), D-3(Industrial training), D-4 (Training), D-5 

(Media coverage), D-6(Religion), D-7 (Stationing), D-8(Corporate investment), 

D-9(Trade and management), E-7(Specific occupation), E-8(Industrial trainee 

employment), F-3(the Spouses of those with one of the above visas and their 

children under age 20. 

• The dependents and children of individuals under an F-1 visa (visiting and joining 

families) 

• A long-term foreign resident in Korea under an F-2 visa (Residence) 

• An overseas Korean resident who is in Korea under an F-4 visa (Korean residents 

abroad) 

2) Enrollment Procedures and Required 

Documentations 

In order to apply for health insurance, a qualified foreigner needs to submit an 

application and the required documents. These documents include a copy of the 

certificate of foreign registration or a copy of a certificate of domestic residence. 

Employers should submit foreign employees’ applications to the National Health 

Insurance Corporation with the required documentations. The enrollment of 

insurance is effective from the applicant’s employment date. 

3) Insurance Benefits 

Foreigners receive the same insurance benefits Koreans do. With payment of the 

appropriate fee, foreigners can be covered for the health services they use. As 

insurance benefits, an insured person pays 20~50% of the medical cost at a hospital 

or clinic and 30 % of the drug cost at a pharmacy. 




Life Insurance 

4) Where to Apply 

For more information, contact the Head office of the National Health Insurance 

Corporation: Tel (02) 3270-9012. For any inquiries, foreigners can call Tel (02) 

3270-9835~9. Following branch offices can also help foreigners with health 

insurance inquiries. 

Seoul Central Branch Tel (02)778-0224 

Songdong Kwangjin Branch Tel (02)454-2548 

Tongdaemun Chungnang Branch Tel (02) 921-0152 

Songbuk Kangbuk Branch Tel (02) 943-1011 

Tobong Nowon Branch Tel (02) 937-0684 

Sodaemun Unpyong Branch Tel (02) 323-0274 

Yangchon Kangso Branch Tel (02) 2647-5599 

Kuro Kumchon Branch Tel (02)2634-1421 

Tongjak Kwanak Branch Tel (02)837-9801 

Socho Kangnam Branch Tel (02)565-4271 

Songpa Kangdong Branch Tel (02)424-3227 

Life Insurance 

*The required enrollment of health insurance for foreign workers has become 

problematic because most foreigners residing in Korea have health insurance 

from their countries and paying for different health insurance fees can be a double 

burden for them. Also, because of language barrier, foreigners have difficulty 

communicating at medical facilities in Korea. 

Considering these drawbacks, The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced 

additional revision of National Health Insurance on April 12, 2007. 

According to the revision, foreigners or overseas Korean working in Korea 

who fall within one of the following categories can be exempt from enrolling for 

health insurance. 

1. In the case an individual receives medical coverage according to his/her national 

laws while working in Korea 

2. In the case the subject is insured in accordance with the rules of employment 

and internal regulations of his/her company during the duration of his/her 

employment in Korea. 

* The effective date of the revised National Health insurance Act: July 27, 2007 

For foreigners who intend to stay in Korea for an extended period of time, life 

insurance is recommended for unexpected situations. 

1) Qualifications 

- A foreigner who plans to stay in Korea at least 90 days and has an alien registration 

number 

- A foreigner entering Korea under one of the following visas 

* D-1(Culture & arts), D-2 (Study), D-3(Industrial training), D-4 (Training), D-5 

(Media coverage), D-6(Religion), D-7 (Stationing), D-8(Corporate investment), 

D-9(Trade and management), E-7(Specific occupation), E-8(Industrial trainee 

employment), F-3(the Spouses of those with one of the above visas and their children 

under age 20.

Medical Service

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?