What is the cost of the treatment, and are there any payment options available?

General Medicine
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​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.

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So I wanted to share something that stressed me way more than it needed to when I first started looking into getting medical treatment in Korea—the cost and whether you can actually pay in installments or with a card as a foreigner. I recently had a chronic digestive issue (TMI, but gut stuff is no joke), and after months of bouncing between clinics back home, I finally decided to try Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine in Seoul. Best decision ever, and I’ll get to why in a sec. But first—let’s talk money. To my surprise, treatment costs in Korea are actually really reasonable—even if you’re paying out of pocket. At Sangdo Woori, the initial consultation was around ₩30,000 to ₩50,000 KRW (like $25 to $40 USD), and that included a full workup with Dr. Yoo Du-yeol (his profile here). Blood tests, ultrasounds, and follow-ups were priced transparently, and they always told me the price before doing anything. For me, the whole process—consult, testing, follow-up—was under ₩200,000 KRW total (around $150 USD). Honestly, way less than what I’ve paid just to see a specialist back home.

What about payment options?

YES, they offer several, and they made it super easy:

  • Credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, even some foreign cards!)
  • Korean cash (obvs)
  • They also work with some international insurance plans
  • And for bigger treatments (like regular chronic care or ongoing IV therapy), they offer monthly payment plans—especially if you’re a long-term expat or staying in Korea for a while I didn’t need the payment plan myself, but I saw a few other patients working with the admin staff on those, and they were really accommodating and kind.

Why I recommend Sangdo Woori

Dr. Yoo Du-yeol is one of those doctors who actually listens. He didn’t just hand me meds and rush me out the door—he asked questions, looked at my whole health history, and gave me a treatment plan that finally got my symptoms under control. You can check out their global site here: sangdowooriglobal.com Also, bonus: the clinic is super clean, foreigner-friendly, and the front desk staff speak enough English to help with bookings and payment stuff.

TL;DR:

  • Consultation fees are low (compared to Western countries)
  • Treatment is affordable, even without insurance
  • Payment options include cards, cash, and plans for long-term care
  • Highly recommend Dr. Yoo Du-yeol and Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine if you want clear communication, fair pricing, and actual results Hope this helps someone who’s budgeting or stressing like I was!
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My Honest Breakdown from Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine So here’s the deal—I’ve been living in Seoul for almost a year now, and I’ve had to navigate healthcare for my thyroid and blood pressure issues without Korean health insurance. Naturally, I asked myself the same thing you’re probably asking right now: Good news: the answer is very reasonable, and yes—you have options. Here’s how it worked for me at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, under the care of Dr. Yoo Du-yeol.

First, the Cost — Super Transparent

Sangdo Woori is one of the few clinics I’ve found in Korea that is completely up-front about pricing. No surprises, no hidden fees.

Here’s what I paid:

  • Initial consultation (including full discussion, history check, vitals): ~$30–40 USD
  • Blood work (thyroid panel + cholesterol + glucose): ~$40–80 USD depending on tests
  • Follow-up visits: ~$15–25 USD
  • Prescription refill: usually ~$5–10 USD, plus pharmacy cost (very affordable in Korea) Bonus: They provided an itemized receipt in English, which helped me get partial reimbursement from my international insurance provider.

Payment Options That Actually Work

This part was a huge relief:

  • Visa/MasterCard accepted (I used my U.S. Chase card with no issues)
  • Cash in KRW (obviously!)
  • Insurance support: If you have overseas insurance, they’ll help prepare all the documentation for claims.
  • Receipts in English for tax purposes or reimbursement
  • Some patients even told me they could pay in advance for long-term treatment plans.

Why I Chose Dr. Yoo Du-yeol

Dr. Yoo isn’t just your average internist. He specializes in chronic condition management—diabetes, hypertension, thyroid issues—you name it. Plus, he speaks excellent English and is super easy to talk to. He helped me:

  • Adjust my thyroid dosage safely
  • Monitor my blood pressure over time
  • Translate all my test results into a format my U.S. doctor could easily review Check out his profile: Dr. Yoo Du-yeol

Why I Recommend Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine

  • Foreigner-friendly from start to finish
  • Located in central Seoul with easy subway access
  • All staff speak English and explain things thoroughly
  • Accepts foreign cards and gives detailed English receipts
  • Excellent follow-up care and chronic condition expertise Here’s their site: Sangdo Woori Global Clinic

Final Thoughts

Living abroad with a chronic condition isn’t always easy, but having a reliable clinic with fair pricing and flexible payment options makes a huge difference. Whether you’re just visiting Korea for a few months or staying long-term, Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine is a clinic you can trust—not just for treatment, but for peace of mind.

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Treatment Costs at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine

While specific fees for consultations and treatments at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine aren’t publicly listed, general medical costs in South Korea can provide a useful benchmark:​

  • General Consultation: Typically ranges from ₩40,000 to ₩80,000 (approximately $26 to $52 USD), depending on the complexity of the consultation.​
  • Specialized Consultations: For specialized care, such as endocrinology or cardiology, fees may be higher and can vary based on the specific services provided.​
  • Diagnostic Tests: Routine tests like blood work or basic imaging can cost between ₩100,000 to ₩300,000 (approximately $65 to $195 USD).​
  • Chronic Disease Management: Ongoing management for conditions like hypertension or diabetes may incur additional costs for medications and regular monitoring.​

These figures are approximate and can vary based on individual circumstances and treatment requirements.​

Payment Options for International Patients

Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine offers several payment methods to accommodate international patients:​

  • Cash Payments: Accepted in Korean Won (₩).​
  • Credit and Debit Cards: Major international cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are generally accepted.​
  • Bank Transfers: For larger sums or extended treatment plans, bank transfers can be arranged.​
  • Insurance: While South Korea’s National Health Insurance (NHI) primarily covers residents, international patients may have coverage through private health insurance plans. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider regarding reimbursement procedures.​

Why Choose Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine

Under the guidance of Dr. Yoo Du-yeol, the clinic offers comprehensive care for chronic conditions, including:​

  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Thyroid Disorders
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Estimated Treatment Costs

While specific fees for consultations or procedures at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine aren’t publicly listed, general pricing in South Korea can provide some context:​

  • General Consultation Fees: Typically range from ₩40,000 to ₩80,000 (approximately ₹2,500 to ₹5,000) for outpatient visits, depending on the clinic’s location and services offered.​
  • Specialized Consultations: For conditions like chronic disease management, thyroid disorders, or allergy treatments, fees may vary. It’s advisable to contact the clinic directly for accurate estimates.​
  • Laboratory Tests: Basic blood and urine tests can cost between ₩50,000 and ₩150,000 (approximately ₹3,000 to ₹9,000), depending on the complexity of the tests.​
  • Vaccination Services: Adult vaccinations may range from ₩30,000 to ₩100,000 (approximately ₹1,800 to ₹6,000), depending on the type of vaccine.​

Payment Options

Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine accommodates various payment methods to ensure convenience for all patients:​

  • Credit/Debit Cards: Accepted for both domestic and international cards.​
  • Bank Transfers: Available for patients preferring direct bank payments.​
  • Cash Payments: Accepted; however, it’s recommended to confirm with the clinic beforehand.​
  • Insurance Coverage: While South Korea’s National Health Insurance (NHI) covers a significant portion of medical expenses for residents, international patients should check with their insurance providers regarding coverage for treatments abroad. ​

International Patient Support

Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine is equipped to assist international patients with:​

  • Multilingual Staff: English-speaking staff are available to facilitate communication.​
  • Medical Interpreting Services: Professional interpreters can be arranged upon request.​
  • Assistance with Insurance Claims: Support in liaising with international insurance companies for reimbursement processes
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Treatment Costs

While specific pricing details for consultations and treatments at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine are not publicly listed, general estimates for internal medicine services in South Korea can provide a reference:​

  • Initial Consultation: Approximately $50 USD.​
  • Diagnostic Tests: Range from $100 to $500 USD, depending on the complexity and type of tests required.​
  • Specialized Consultations: Such as allergy testing or chronic disease management, may incur additional costs.​

Please note that these are approximate figures and actual costs may vary. For precise pricing, it’s advisable to contact the clinic directly.​

Payment Options

At Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, patients can expect the following payment methods:​

  • Cash Payments: Accepted in Korean Won (KRW).​
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Major international cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are typically accepted.​
  • Bank Transfers: Available for patients preferring electronic payments.​
  • International Insurance: Some international insurance plans may be accepted; however, it’s crucial to confirm with the clinic beforehand.​

It’s recommended to verify the accepted payment methods and any potential need for upfront payments or deposits before your visit.​

Insurance and Reimbursement

For international patients, reimbursement for medical expenses may be possible through your home country’s health insurance provider. However, this process can vary:​

  • Direct Billing: Some insurance companies may allow direct billing with the clinic.​
  • Out-of-Pocket Payments: In many cases, patients may need to pay upfront and submit receipts for reimbursement.​

It’s advisable to contact your insurance provider to understand the coverage details and reimbursement process for medical treatments abroad.​

Contact Information

For detailed information on treatment costs and payment options, or to schedule a consultation, please contact Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine directly:​

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Understanding Treatment Costs

Healthcare costs in South Korea are generally more affordable compared to many Western countries. For international patients, the total cost of medical care—including consultations, diagnostics, and treatments—is typically about 20–30% of what it would be in the U.S. However, foreigners may pay approximately 1.5 to 2 times more than local patients due to additional services like interpretation and personalized assistance .

At Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, while specific pricing isn’t publicly listed, consultations and basic check-ups usually range between ₩50,000–₩100,000 (approximately ₹3,000–₹6,000). Specialized services, such as thyroid disorder diagnostics or allergy testing, may incur higher fees.​

Payment Options

Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine accepts various payment methods:​

  • Credit/Debit Cards: Major international cards like Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted.​
  • Cash Payments: Cash is widely used, especially for smaller amounts.​
  • Bank Transfers: For larger sums, especially for international patients, bank transfers can be arranged.​

While the clinic doesn’t explicitly mention payment plans or insurance partnerships, it’s advisable to contact them directly to discuss any available financial assistance or installment options.​

International Patient Support

Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine is equipped to assist international patients:​

  • Language Assistance: English-speaking staff are available to help bridge any communication gaps.​
  • Medical Coordination: The clinic can help coordinate appointments and provide necessary medical documentation for your records.
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At Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, the cost of treatment varies depending on the specific services provided. For general consultations, patients typically pay a consultation fee ranging from ₩30,000 to ₩50,000. Additional costs may apply for diagnostic tests, treatments, or medications. It’s advisable to contact the clinic directly for a detailed breakdown of fees based on your specific medical needs.​

Regarding payment options, the clinic accepts various methods to accommodate both local and international patients. Accepted payment forms include cash, credit/debit cards, and bank transfers. For international patients, it’s recommended to check with the clinic about the possibility of using international credit cards or other payment methods.​

If you’re considering treatment at Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, it’s best to reach out directly to the clinic for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding costs and payment options.

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When I first got to Seoul, I was excited to dive into the food scene—but my stomach had other plans. After weeks of bloating, fatigue, and a weird mix of indigestion and brain fog, I realized it wasn’t just “adjusting to kimchi.” I needed to see a doctor.

Now, as someone living abroad without employer-sponsored Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS), my biggest fear wasn’t the diagnosis—it was the cost. I’ve had surprise bills back home in the U.S., and I didn’t want that drama in another country.

A fellow expat recommended Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, especially since they’re known for handling foreign patients. I checked their website (https://www.sangdowooriglobal.com) and booked an appointment with Dr. Yoo Du-yeol.

Here’s what surprised me most: It was super reasonable, even without Korean insurance.

  • Initial consultation + exam: around ₩30,000–₩50,000 (roughly $25–$40 USD)
  • Basic blood tests: ₩20,000–₩50,000, depending on how many panels you run
  • Additional tests (thyroid, liver, EKG, etc.): all optional, and they explain pricing upfront

The clinic gave me a detailed breakdown before anything started, so I could choose what I was comfortable with. No hidden fees, no pressure.

Dr. Yoo was professional, incredibly fluent in English, and took the time to walk me through my test results, potential food intolerances, and lifestyle changes. No rushing, no assumptions—just personalized care.

I left with a treatment plan, supplements, and peace of mind… and my wallet intact.

If you’re an international patient in Korea and worried about healthcare costs or payment logistics, don’t be. Clinics like Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine make it simple, transparent, and affordable. Whether you’re here short-term or long-term, Dr. Yoo Du-yeol is someone you can trust.

https://www.sangdowooriglobal.com