Health & Insurance

Korean procedures explained in plain language

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Sleep problems

If sleeplessness persists, a doctor can find the cause.

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Help to stop smoking

Public health centre clinics are free, and there is a quitline.

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Adult vaccinations

Influenza, tetanus and hepatitis B are among the shots adults need. Some are free.

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Postnatal care

Instead of a care centre, a health manager can visit your home. Look after your mind as well as your body.

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Settling health insurance when you leave Korea

Before departure, settle your premiums and file loss of eligibility. Overpayments are refunded.

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Using your home country's insurance

Claiming Korean medical bills on home insurance comes down to the paperwork.

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Medical certificates for your employer

Documents proving sick leave, an accident, or a reason for absence. Prepare them in advance.

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Caregivers in hospital

Choose between an integrated nursing ward, a hired caregiver, or family care.

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Hepatitis testing and prevention

Hepatitis B and C progress without symptoms. Testing and vaccination matter.

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Dealing with colds and flu

A cold gets better with rest; flu needs a doctor and medication.

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Foreign patients versus residents

Residents are treated under health insurance; visiting patients pay uninsured rates. The costs differ sharply.

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Referral letters for tertiary hospitals

To attend a major hospital you need a referral from a clinic or hospital.

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Organ donation

Registering in life puts your wishes on record.

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Emergency medical cost advance payment

When you cannot pay emergency charges immediately, the state pays first and you repay later.

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Medical cost support schemes

Support depends on income and circumstances. Ask 129.

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Clinic hours and closing days

Weekday mornings and afternoons plus Saturday morning is standard; Sundays and holidays are mostly closed.

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Food allergy care

Check the labels, get tested, and be ready for an emergency.

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Korean phrases for the hospital

The phrases you need, in the order you'll use them.

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Managing chronic conditions (blood pressure, diabetes)

They need managing even without symptoms, and health centres offer free support.

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Donating blood

Foreign residents can donate too, if they meet the conditions.

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Night and holiday clinics

e-gen or 119 will find you a clinic and pharmacy open right now.

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Patient rights

You have the right to an explanation, to choose, and to see your records.

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Travel vaccinations

Check what you need before visiting home or travelling abroad.

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Orthopaedics (musculoskeletal pain)

Back, shoulder and knee pain go to orthopaedics. If it came from work, check industrial accident cover too.

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Being admitted to hospital

Knowing the flow — admission, room, treatment, discharge settlement — keeps you calm.

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Hospital interpretation services

Phone interpretation and in-hospital interpreters exist. Prepare before your appointment.

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Understanding hospital bills

Split the bill into covered and non-covered items and the total makes sense.

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Preventing heat illness

Korean summers are humid, which makes them more dangerous. Water, shade and rest are the basics.

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Responding to infectious disease

The rules change often. Check 1339 and the KDCA for the current position.

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Free clinics for foreigners

Many open at weekends, and some have volunteer interpreters.

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Receiving physiotherapy

Commonly prescribed for pain and musculoskeletal problems. Consistency is what makes it work.

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Estimating and getting help with surgery costs

Check the non-covered items before surgery and look into support schemes at the same time.

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Dermatology

Treatment of disease is covered; cosmetic procedures are not.

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Obtaining your medical records

You have the right to your own records. They are needed for insurance, accident claims and work.

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Isolation rules

Whether you isolate and for how long varies by disease and changes often.

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Nutrition and diet advice

Public health centres and hospitals offer it free or cheaply.

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Medical dispute help

Gather the records and you can apply to the mediation agency.

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Contraception information

You can be advised at a gynaecology clinic or health centre, and confidentiality is protected.

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Apps and sites for finding a hospital

HIRA, e-gen and a map app cover almost every case.

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HIV testing and support

Anonymous, free testing is available at public health centres. With treatment it is a livable condition.

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Disability registration

Registration opens access to various support. It starts with a hospital diagnosis.

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Getting a medical certificate

Ask for the right type for your purpose — say what you need it for.

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Free and low-cost care for foreigners

There are ways to be seen even without insurance. Don't endure it — ask.

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Hearing health

If you work in noise, always have your hearing tested.

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TB testing and treatment

Tuberculosis treatment is state-supported. Finishing the full course is what cures it.

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STI testing (anonymous testing)

Public health centres offer some tests anonymously and free of charge.

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Rehabilitation treatment

Treatment to regain function after accident or illness. The earlier it starts the better.

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Personal accident insurance

For accidents at work, industrial accident cover comes first; accident insurance is separate.

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How to see a doctor

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Getting a health check-up

Health insurance subscribers can have a free national health check-up on a set cycle. Don't miss the notice.

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