When considering medical treatment in South Korea, it’s essential to understand the associated costs and available payment options. Medical expenses can vary based on the type of treatment, the healthcare facility, and whether you’re covered by insurance. For foreign residents enrolled in South Korea’s National Health Insurance Service (NHIS), the system typically covers 50–80% of medical expenses, with patients responsible for the remaining 20–50% as co-payments. For example, a general practitioner’s consultation might cost between ₩10,000 and ₩15,000, with NHIS covering a significant portion of this fee .
If you’re not enrolled in NHIS, medical tourists are generally required to pay for medical treatment out-of-pocket or through private travel insurance . In such cases, it’s advisable to consult with the hospital or clinic beforehand to obtain an estimate of the treatment costs. Some facilities may offer cashless billing systems for patients with international insurance, allowing direct claims without upfront payment .
It’s also important to note that certain treatments, such as elective procedures or advanced diagnostic tests, may not be covered by NHIS and would require full payment . Therefore, discussing the specifics of your treatment plan and understanding the financial aspects beforehand can help in managing costs effectively.