Medical dispute help
If you believe treatment went wrong, don't fight it alone — use the mediation body.
What to do first
- Obtain your medical records. As the patient you may request access and copies. See medical-records.
- Collect receipts, prescriptions and test results.
- Write down the sequence of events — when, what symptoms, what you were told.
- Ask the hospital for an explanation.
- If unresolved, apply for consultation or mediation with the Korea Medical Dispute Mediation and Arbitration Agency (1670-2545).
How mediation works
- Consultation → application → medical assessment → mediation decision.
- A successful mediation has the same effect as a court settlement.
- If mediation fails, litigation is possible. Korea Legal Aid Corporation (132) can advise.
What you need
- Copies of your medical records
- Receipts and the detailed statement of charges
- ID (alien registration card)
- Your notes, photographs and other evidence
Where to go
- 1670-2545 Korea Medical Dispute Mediation and Arbitration Agency
- 132 Korea Legal Aid Corporation (legal advice)
- 129 Health and Welfare Call Centre
- 1345 Immigration Contact Centre (interpretation)
Questions people ask
I don't speak Korean. 1345 offers interpretation, and local foreign-resident support centres can arrange someone to accompany you.
The hospital won't hand over my records. A patient's right to copies of their own records is protected. If refused, contact 129 or your public health centre.
I'm worried about the cost. Mediation costs far less than litigation. For free legal advice, call 132.
A long time has passed. There can be time limits on claims. Seek advice as soon as possible.
Take care
Causing a scene at the hospital works against you. Gather records and use the formal process. Always take advice before signing any settlement.
Related
patient-rights · medical-records · hospital-bill-understand · medical-certificate · free-lawyer
Source
Korea Medical Dispute Mediation and Arbitration Agency www.k-medi.or.kr / As of 2026-08