Organ donation
Registering as a prospective donor is free and can be cancelled at any time.
Types
- Donation after brain death — organs donated once brain death is determined.
- Cornea and tissue donation after death.
- Living donation — donating a kidney or part of a liver while alive. This requires strict screening and a separate process.
How to register your wish
- Check the guidance at the Korea Organ Donation Agency (www.koda1458.kr) or KONOS at the Korea Disease Control Agency.
- Submit the registration form online, by post or in person.
- After identity checks you receive a registration card.
- Tell your family. Their view carries real weight at the time of donation.
- You can cancel at any time if you change your mind.
What you need
- ID (alien registration card or passport)
- Contact details
- For living donation, separate medical tests and screening
Where to go
- 1544-0606 Korea Organ Donation Agency
- www.koda1458.kr (registration guidance)
- KONOS, Korea Disease Control Agency
- 129 Health and Welfare Call Centre
Questions people ask
Can foreign residents register? Eligibility and process can depend on your residence status. Check with 1544-0606.
Will A&E treat me less if I've registered? No. Saving the patient always comes first; donation is only discussed afterwards.
Is there payment? Trading in organs is a crime. Donation is unpaid. Never respond to anyone offering money.
Must I tell my family? It isn't a legal duty but it matters greatly in practice. Talk to them in advance.
Take care
Any offer of money for an organ is criminal. Report such approaches to 112. Be especially wary of brokers who approach people in debt.
Related
blood-donation · patient-rights · medical-records · funeral-support · scam-prevention
Source
Korea Organ Donation Agency www.koda1458.kr / As of 2026-08