Set up your healthcare
Korea's healthcare is excellent and affordable. Here's how to access it.
Need the full details? Read our comprehensive Healthcare Guide.
You are automatically enrolled in NHIS
If you have an ARC and are employed, you are enrolled in National Health Insurance (NHIS) through your employer. They handle the paperwork. The premium is about 8% of your salary, split 50/50 with your employer. If you are self-employed or unemployed, you must register at your local NHIS office within 6 months of getting your ARC.
Find an English-speaking doctor
International clinics exist in Itaewon, Gangnam, and near major hospitals. For non-emergency care, start at a local clinic (동네의원), not a hospital. University hospital international departments (Severance, Samsung Medical, Asan) have English-speaking staff but require referrals for non-emergency visits.
Tip: Call 1339 (Health Helpline) for English-language medical guidance 24/7.
Advertisement
Google Ads (468x60)
Understand what NHIS covers
NHIS covers 70-80% of most medical costs. You pay the remaining 20-30% at the clinic or hospital. A basic doctor visit costs about 5,000-15,000 KRW out of pocket. Prescriptions are filled at pharmacies (약국) next to the clinic, usually another 3,000-10,000 KRW.
Know the emergency system
Call 119 for ambulance/emergency. Emergency rooms do not require appointments or referrals. Bring your ARC and insurance card. For non-life-threatening issues, go to a local clinic first, as ER copays are significantly higher.
Tip: Save 1339 (health helpline, English) and 119 (emergency) in your phone on day one.
Want the full guide?
This was a quick start. The complete guide has everything.
Read Healthcare Guide→Advertisement
Google Ads (728x90)