How to Find a GP or Dentist Who Speaks English in Korea

A Foreigner-Friendly Guide to Accessing English-Speaking Medical and Dental Care


1. Is It Easy to Find English-Speaking Doctors in Korea?

Yes — especially in major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon.

Korea has many GPs (general practitioners) and dentists who either speak English themselves or offer interpreter services.
These clinics often cater to expats, students, diplomats, or tourists.

🩺 However, smaller local clinics may have limited English support, so it’s important to check in advance.

2. Best Ways to Search for English-Speaking Clinics

Use the following platforms:

  • Seoul Global Center (SGC)

  • HiDoc Korea

  • Google Maps / Naver Maps

    • Search keywords like “English speaking doctor near me” or
      “영어 가능한 내과 / 치과”

  • International clinics at major hospitals

    • Severance Hospital (Shinchon)

    • Samsung Medical Center (Gangnam)

    • Asan Medical Center

    • Seoul National University Hospital

3. Recommended English-Speaking Clinics (Seoul & Beyond)

  • Severance International Clinic – Shinchon

  • Seoul National University Hospital International Healthcare Center

  • Songdo Global Clinic – Incheon

  • Yonsei Ye Dental Clinic – Hongdae

  • US Dental Korea – Itaewon

  • Gachon University Gil Medical Center – Incheon (Global Healthcare Service)

📍 These centers typically offer services like general health, dermatology, vaccinations, and dental work.

4. What to Prepare Before Your Visit

  • ARC or passport (for ID)

  • National Health Insurance (NHI) card, if enrolled

  • Medical history or past prescriptions

  • Translation app (Papago) for safety

💳 Most international clinics accept both Korean and foreign cards, but always ask first.

5. What to Say (Helpful Korean Phrases)

  • “영어 가능한 의사 있나요?” — Is there a doctor who speaks English?

  • “진료 예약하고 싶어요.” — I’d like to make an appointment.

  • “이 근처에 치과 있어요?” — Is there a dentist nearby?

  • “이거 진료비 얼마예요?” — How much is the consultation fee?

📞 Call ahead and ask “Do you have an English-speaking doctor?” — most clinics will honestly tell you.

6. Cost of Medical & Dental Care

  • GP/clinic visit: KRW 10,000–30,000 (with NHI)

  • Dentist (cleaning): KRW 20,000–50,000

  • Fillings or crowns: Higher, especially without insurance

💡 Dental care is only partially covered by Korean NHI. Always ask about pricing beforehand.

7. Extra Tips for Foreigners Seeking Healthcare

  • Visit clinics near universities or expat neighborhoods (like Itaewon, Gangnam, Hongdae)

  • Join expat groups on Facebook or Reddit for trusted doctor recommendations

  • Use Seoul Global Center’s free interpretation service if needed

  • Consider telemedicine services like AirDoctor or MyDoctor for virtual English consultations


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