Top Hospitals in South Korea

Hospital Guide for Expats in South Korea

Health crises are always difficult and stressful, but this is worsened when overseas and away from the familiar systems of your home country. With this guide, we hope you’ll allow us to mitigate that stress so you can focus on the things that matter: your (or your loved one’s) health.

What you’ll find here are valuable insights and practical tips to help expats understand the Korean health system and, in particular, hospitals, from emergency services to insurance coverage and overcoming language barriers.

Expatriates and the Emergency Services in South Korea

Being prepared for health emergencies is essential. The primary emergency number for medical assistance is 119, which connects to both ambulance services and fire departments (while police services can be reached via 112). Although first responders may not always speak English, major cities have introduced interpretation services to bridge the language gap.

Expats are encouraged to download the Baro Emergency Reporting App, which provides translation support and helps communicate medical needs more clearly. Make sure to identify hospitals nearby that have English-speaking staff in advance (such as the hospitals we recommend later in this article), as not all medical facilities cater to non-Korean speakers.

We also recommend learning a few basic medical phrases in Korean, especially if you have any permanent/chronic health conditions (such as allergies) and/or keeping a list of your current medications can be helpful in ensuring efficient treatment in an emergency situation.

Types of Hospitals in Korea

South Korea has many hospitals catering to different needs and budgets.

Public Hospitals

Public hospitals in South Korea are known for their high standards of care, modern facilities, and affordability compared to many Western countries - partly thanks to mandatory health insurance.

Expats can expect efficient, quality medical services, though English-speaking staff may not be available at all times, particularly in smaller hospitals or outside major cities. Larger public hospitals, especially in cities like Seoul and Busan, often have international clinics or departments with English-speaking doctors and translators to assist foreign patients. It's recommended to bring a Korean-speaking friend or translator app for smoother communication when visiting smaller facilities.

Public hospitals offer a wide range of services, from routine check-ups to emergency care, making them a reliable option for healthcare needs.

Private Hospitals

Private hospitals in South Korea offer high-quality healthcare with a focus on patient comfort and shorter wait times compared to public facilities. Many private hospitals, particularly in major cities, cater to international patients with English-speaking staff, dedicated international clinics, and concierge-style services. While these hospitals tend to be more expensive than public ones, they often provide a more personalized experience and access to specialists.

Expats seeking a seamless healthcare experience, especially for complex treatments or procedures, may find private hospitals a convenient and efficient option. However, we recommend you check if your health insurance covers treatment at private facilities, as costs can add up quickly without coverage.

Expat Insurance Coverage for Hospital Care

Expat insurance coverage for hospital care in South Korea is essential, as medical expenses can vary significantly depending on the type of facility and services required. Many international health insurance plans cover treatment at both public and private hospitals, but it’s important to confirm if your policy includes direct billing arrangements, as paying out-of-pocket can be costly.

Some private hospitals may require upfront payment, especially for extensive procedures, with reimbursement handled later by your insurance provider. Additionally, checking for coverage of specific services, such as emergency care or specialist consultations, can help avoid unexpected expenses.

Expats should carry their insurance information at all times and, if possible, have a local contact who can assist with communication during hospital visits. If you’re unsure what insurance coverage you may need for moving to or living South Korea (or simply would like more information), be sure to give our Insurance Guide to South Korea a read.

Overcoming Language Barriers in Korean Hospitals

Many expats find overcoming language barriers in Korean hospitals to be challenging, especially in non-international clinics or smaller facilities, but there are some ways to minimise its impact.

Firstly, larger hospitals in major cities are more likely to have English-speaking staff or dedicated international patient centers with translation services. Secondly, downloading and using translation apps, like Papago or Google Translate, and learning basic Korean medical phrases can be very helpful - although these are better suited with simple health issues, since translation apps will always be inaccurate in complex scenarios. For complex scenarios, we recommend our third option: taking advantage of the medical interpreters which some hospitals offer through the 1339 Medical Hotline or the Korea Travel Hotline (1330), which provide assistance in multiple languages. Even better is to bring along a Korean-speaking friend or using a professional interpreter service to ensure clear communication during appointments or emergencies - although make sure to reward any friends willing to interpret for you handsomely!

Seeking the Best Medical Care as an Expatriate in South Korea

Utilising the healthcare system in a new country can be daunting, but with the right information and preparation, expats in South Korea can ensure they receive quality medical care when needed.

By understanding the types of hospitals available, familiarizing themselves with emergency services, securing appropriate health insurance, and overcoming language barriers, expats can confidently manage their healthcare needs in Korea.

This guide serves as a starting point for making informed decisions and staying healthy while enjoying life in this vibrant country.