How to Book a Health Checkup in Korea: A Foreigner’s Step-by-Step Guide

Everything You Need to Know to Schedule and Complete a Medical Checkup in Korea


1. Why Get a Health Checkup in Korea?

Health checkups are affordable, quick, and highly detailed in Korea.

Whether you're:

  • Required by your visa or school

  • Applying for certain jobs

  • Monitoring your general health

…it’s easy to get screened at clinics, hospitals, or specialized centers.

🩺 Korea offers both basic checkups and full-body diagnostics (검진 or 건강검진).

2. Where to Get a Checkup

Options include:

  • Public health centers (보건소) — For visa-related or simple checkups

  • University hospitals — For premium packages and comprehensive tests

  • Private health checkup centers — Fast service, English support often available

📍 Use Naver Map or Kakao Map and search:

  • “건강검진 센터” (Health checkup center)

  • “영어 가능 병원” (English-speaking clinic)

3. How to Book an Appointment

Booking methods:

  • Online via hospital website (some offer English pages)

  • By phone — Ask if English-speaking staff is available

  • Walk-in — Possible at small clinics, but appointment is safer

  • Use platforms like Seoul Global Center or MyDoctorKorea

🗓 Appointments are usually available within a few days to 1 week.

4. Required Documents and Information

Bring the following:

  • Alien Registration Card (ARC)

  • Passport (for ID)

  • Health insurance card (if applicable)

  • Any forms required by immigration or employer

  • Prior medical records (if relevant)

💡 Some tests require fasting — you’ll be told in advance.

5. Types of Health Checkups Available

Type Description Cost
Visa checkup (e.g. E-2) Includes TB test, HIV, urine KRW 60,000–100,000
Basic health screening Weight, blood pressure, labs KRW 50,000–150,000
Full body checkup Imaging, ECG, cancer markers KRW 300,000–1,000,000+

🔍 Tip: Ask for a health certificate (건강진단서) if needed for visa or school.

6. How the Process Works (What to Expect)

  1. Check in at reception

  2. Fill out consent and history forms

  3. Get your tests done (blood, urine, vision, etc.)

  4. Doctor reviews the results

  5. Receive a report or certificate (same-day or within a few days)

📄 You can request results in English — some clinics provide bilingual reports.

7. Useful Korean Phrases for Booking & Checkup

  • “건강검진 예약하고 싶어요.” — I’d like to book a health checkup.

  • “영어 가능한 의사 있나요?” — Is there an English-speaking doctor?

  • “비자용 건강검진 필요해요.” — I need a health checkup for a visa.

  • “결과는 언제 받을 수 있나요?” — When can I receive the results?

🧾 Always ask for printed results or PDF copies if you need to submit them officially.


댓글

댓글 쓰기

이 블로그의 인기 게시물

How to Use Naver Maps and Kakao Maps in English (2025 Guide)

Your Foreigner-Friendly Navigation Guide for Korea’s Best Map Apps 1. Why You Should Use Naver Map or Kakao Map in Korea Google Maps doesn't work well in Korea due to government restrictions. Instead, locals use Naver Map (네이버 지도) and Kakao Map (카카오맵) — both offer: Accurate public transit routes Real-time bus and subway tracking Walking and driving directions Restaurant and store reviews in Korean 💡 Both apps now include English interfaces , making them essential for foreigners. 2. How to Download and Switch to English Naver Map Download from the App Store or Google Play: “Naver Map” Open the app and tap the profile icon (top right) Go to Settings → Language Select English Kakao Map Download the app: “Kakao Map” Tap the menu (≡) → Settings (설정) Change language to English 📲 You may need to restart the app for the language setting to apply fully. 3. Searching for Places in English Naver Map accepts English input for major lo...
자세한 내용 보기

How to Register for the Korean National Health Insurance (NHI) as a Foreigner

Step-by-Step Guide for Expats, Students, and Workers in Korea 1. Do Foreigners Need to Enroll in Korean National Health Insurance? Yes— if you’re staying in Korea for more than 6 months , you are legally required to enroll in the National Health Insurance (건강보험) . This applies to: Language students (D-4 visa) University students (D-2 visa) Foreign workers (E-2, E-7, etc.) Permanent residents and spouses of Koreans 🩺 Once enrolled, you’ll get access to discounted hospital visits, prescriptions, and insurance-covered treatments . 2. Who Manages National Health Insurance? The National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) is responsible for registration, payments, and services. Website: https://www.nhis.or.kr English Help Line: 1577-1000 → Press 7 3. When and How to Enroll in NHI Enrollment is automatic once: You’ve lived in Korea for 6 months , OR You are issued an Alien Registration Card (ARC) with a qualifying visa 📬 NHIS will mail you a registration...
자세한 내용 보기

How to Sign a Phone Contract in Korea (Prepaid vs. Postpaid)

A Foreigner-Friendly Guide to Getting a Korean SIM Card and Mobile Plan 1. Can Foreigners Sign a Phone Contract in Korea? Yes! Foreigners can sign up for either prepaid or postpaid (contract) mobile plans in Korea — depending on their visa type and stay duration. You’ll need: Alien Registration Card (ARC) Korean address and phone number Korean bank account (for postpaid) 💡 Without an ARC, you're limited to prepaid SIMs (short-term use only). 2. Prepaid vs. Postpaid: What’s the Difference? Plan Type Best For Requirements Payment Prepaid Tourists, short-term students Passport only Recharge before use Postpaid (후불) Long-term residents ARC, bank account Monthly billing 📱 Prepaid is flexible but more expensive per GB. Postpaid offers better rates and perks. 3. How to Get a Prepaid SIM Card Perfect for visitors or short stays: Available at: Incheon Airport booths Convenience stores Online retailers (EG SIM, KT M Mobile, Chi...
자세한 내용 보기