Health & Insurance

Korean procedures explained in plain language

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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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Medical dispute help

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

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Korean phrases for the hospital

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

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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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Which clinic to go to first

Minor symptoms: start at a local clinic. Emergencies: call 119. Knowing the order saves time and money.

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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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TB testing and treatment

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

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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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Mandatory health insurance after a qualifying stay

Foreign residents staying beyond a set period are automatically enrolled as regional subscribers. It is not optional.

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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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Isolation rules

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

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Infant and toddler health check-ups

Free developmental check-ups at set ages. Do not miss them.

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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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Night and holiday clinics

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

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Dermatology

Treatment of disease is covered; cosmetic procedures are not.

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Patient rights

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

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Help with alcohol, gambling and drug addiction

If you cannot stop on your own, it is addiction. It is a matter of treatment, not willpower.

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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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Which hospital should I go to (clinic → hospital → ER)

Minor symptoms go to a local clinic, serious illness to a hospital, immediate danger to the emergency room. Knowing the order saves money and time.

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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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Where to go when you are struggling mentally

Several free counselling lines exist. One phone call beats enduring it.

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Caregivers in hospital

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

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Medicines you can buy without a prescription

Painkillers, digestives and cold medicine can be bought at a pharmacy without a prescription. Some are sold at convenience stores.

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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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Rehabilitation treatment

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

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Travel vaccinations

Check what you need before visiting home or travelling abroad.

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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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Adult vaccinations

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

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Workplace versus regional enrolment

Working for a company means workplace enrolment; otherwise it is regional. The main difference is who pays the premium.

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Occupational health checks

If your work involves hazards, the employer must arrange special health examinations.

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Medical cost support schemes

Support depends on income and circumstances. Ask 129.

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Donating blood

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

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Receiving physiotherapy

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

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Free clinics for foreigners

Many open at weekends, and some have volunteer interpreters.

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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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Choosing where to give birth

Consider distance, emergency capability and interpretation. Decide in advance.

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What dental insurance covers

Treatment is generally covered; cosmetic work is not. Always ask in advance.

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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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Sleep problems

If sleeplessness persists, a doctor can find the cause.

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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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Hepatitis testing and prevention

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

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Childhood vaccinations (free)

National immunisations are free at designated clinics and public health centres. Do not miss the schedule.

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Registering at a hospital

At a hospital you visit for the first time, hand over your ID and fill in a first-visit form. Your insurance is checked at the same time.

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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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Registering family as dependants

Workplace subscribers can register qualifying family members as dependants, who get cover without a separate premium.

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Organ donation

Registering in life puts your wishes on record.

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STI testing (anonymous testing)

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

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Hearing health

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

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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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