๐ฅ Types of Medical Facilities in Korea
- Green Team
- Jul 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 6
Local Clinics (Uiwon)
For minor symptoms: cold, stomach ache, skin issues
No appointment neededโjust walk in
Very affordable
General Hospitals / University Hospitals
For surgeries, specialized treatments
Appointments are usually required
Many have a dedicated international patient center
Public Health Centers (Bogeonso)
For vaccinations, TB tests, check-ups
Many services are very low-cost or free
๐ What to Bring
ARC (Alien Registration Card) or passport
Korean Health Insurance cardย (if you have one)
A translation appย or simple Korean phrases
A note of your symptomsย in case communication is difficult
๐ Step-by-Step: Visiting a Hospital
Check-In:ย Give your name and ARC/passport number
Consultation:ย Talk to the doctor; they may do tests if needed
Payment:ย Pay at the counter (card/cash both accepted)
Pharmacy:ย Take the prescription to a nearby pharmacy to get your medicine
๐ก Tip:Use apps like Goodocย or Naver Reservationย to search and book hospitals in English!Or call Seoul Global Center (โ๏ธ 1577-7129)ย for help in multiple languages.
๐ฐ How Much Does It Cost?
For a cold/flu visit: โฉ5,000โ10,000 with health insurance
Without ARC or insurance: 2โ3 times more expensive
Emergency room: โฉ50,000 to โฉ200,000 or more
๐ก Staying over 6 months in Korea?You're eligible for National Health Insuranceโthis significantly reduces your medical bills!
๐ฉ Real Example
Sarayu (33, Indonesia)ย had sudden stomach pain and went to a small internal medicine clinic in Gangnam, Seoul.She used simple English and a translation app, and the doctor understood her well.Thanks to her Korean health insurance, she paid only โฉ8,000!She said the clinic was fast, clean, and very kind ๐
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do hospitals offer translation services?๐ Yes! Especially at large hospitals or foreign patient centers, staff who speak English, Chinese, or Vietnamese are often available.
Q. Do I have to take the medicine the doctor gives me?๐ Yes, Korean prescriptions are customized to your symptoms. Itโs important to follow the instructions.
Q. Can I visit a hospital without an ARC (Alien Registration Card)?๐ Yes, you can. But prices may be higher, and some clinics may not be familiar with handling foreign patients.
โ Summary
From local clinics to major hospitals, foreigners can get care easily in Korea
Bring your ARC/passport, insurance card, and prepare simple Korean or a translation app
Use apps or helplines to find hospitals with English support
Health insurance makes a hugeย difference in cost
๐ฌ Is your resume ready?๐ Submit your resume here
Even when you're feeling sick,you can stay healthy and safe while living and working in Korea! ๐๐ฅ๐ฐ๐ท




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