Free clinics for foreigners
Free and low-cost clinics for foreigners operate across the country.
What they are
- Clinics run by religious groups and medical volunteer organisations
- Local government and health centre programmes for foreign residents
- Regular clinics held by university hospital volunteer teams
- Clinic services attached to migrant workers' support centres
Most operate at weekends or on set days, and many have volunteer interpreters.
What care you get
- Basic consultations — internal medicine, orthopaedics, dentistry, Korean medicine (varies by clinic)
- Simple tests and medication
- Referral to a larger hospital where needed
Major treatment requiring surgery or admission is beyond them. For that, explore 129 and the medical cost support schemes.
How to find one
- Ask 129 (Health and Welfare Call Centre) for your nearest.
- Ask a local migrant workers' support centre or family centre.
- Ask your public health centre whether it runs a foreign residents' clinic.
- Calling with 1577-1366 interpretation makes it easier.
What to bring
- Passport or Alien Registration Card (some see patients without one — phone ahead to check)
- Your medication packet or a photo of it
- A note describing your symptoms — prepared with a translation app in advance
Where to go
- 129 Health and Welfare Call Centre
- Your local public health centre
- Local migrant workers' support centres and family centres
- 1577-1366 · 1345 interpretation
Questions people ask
Can I be seen without ID? It varies by clinic. Phone ahead to check. Many will look for a way if you explain your situation.
Is it really free? Some are free, others charge only costs. Confirm by phone.
Can I go in an emergency? No. Emergencies mean 119 or an emergency room. Free clinics handle ordinary consultations.
Do they give medication? Many provide simple medication. Chronic disease medication may be limited — check first.
Take care
Free clinics have limits in equipment and scope. If symptoms are severe or persistent, you must be seen at a proper hospital. If cost worries you, ask 129 about medical cost support at the same time.
Related
foreigner-medical-support · medical-fee-support · emergency-medical-fund · hospital-interpretation
Source
Ministry of Health and Welfare www.mohw.go.kr / As of 2026-08