When you suddenly get sick or injured in Korea, it can be stressful—especially for foreigners unfamiliar with the medical system.
The first question is usually: “How much does the emergency room cost?”
Korea’s medical system is advanced and accessible, but the cost structure differs from other countries.
This guide explains everything foreigners need to know: cost breakdown, test prices, insurance differences, real examples, English-speaking hospitals, and cost-saving tips.
🔹 1. Foreigners Can Use Korean ER Immediately
Anyone can use the emergency room regardless of nationality.
If you have your passport, you can register right away.
In emergencies, treatment comes first—paperwork later.
There’s no extra charge for foreigners, but without insurance, you pay 100% yourself.
🔹 2. Cost Breakdown
ER costs include:
- Basic consultation
- Blood test
- Imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI)
- Ultrasound
- Procedures (stitches, injections, etc.)
- Medication
Foreigners pay the same as locals, but without insurance, there’s no discount.
🔹 3. Average Cost Range (Without Insurance)
Basic consultation: ₩30,000–60,000
Blood test: ₩40,000–150,000
X-ray: ₩30,000–70,000
CT scan: ₩150,000–350,000
MRI scan: ₩350,000–700,000
Ultrasound: ₩50,000–150,000
Treatment: ₩20,000–200,000
Medication: ₩5,000–30,000
🔹 4. Example by Symptom
Mild cold or fever: ₩50,000–120,000
Possible fracture: ₩100,000–200,000
Abdominal pain (CT): ₩200,000–400,000
Headache (MRI): ₩400,000–900,000
🔹 5. Real Cases
American traveler — abdominal pain, blood + CT: ₩280,000
Vietnamese student — high fever, basic + blood test: ₩110,000
Middle Eastern tourist — leg injury, X-ray: ₩150,000
Foreign worker with insurance — after coverage: ₩40,000 (without insurance: ₩150,000)
🔹 6. Insurance Differences
- Korean National Health Insurance
Long-term residents can join. 50–70% discount.
- Travel Insurance
Covers most ER costs for travelers.
- No Insurance
Full payment required; tests can be expensive.
🔹 7. English-Speaking Hospitals
Seoul:
Asan Medical Center, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Severance Hospital
Gyeonggi:
Bundang Seoul National University Hospital, Ajou University Hospital
Busan:
Pusan National University Hospital, Haeundae Paik Hospital
🔹 8. How to Save Money
- Ask for minimal tests.
- Get travel insurance.
- Choose hospitals with international centers.
- Join national health insurance if staying long-term.
🔹 9. FAQs
Can foreigners use ER easily? Yes, with a passport.
Is it more expensive for foreigners? No, only insurance matters.
Can I pay by card? Yes, most hospitals accept foreign cards.
Are English-speaking hospitals available? Yes, major hospitals offer English service.
🔹 10. Summary
Korea’s ER is safe, modern, and accessible for foreigners.
Without insurance, costs can be high, but with travel insurance or limited tests, it’s manageable.
Knowing how the system works helps you stay calm and prepared.
🔗 References
- National Health Insurance Service: https://www.nhis.or.kr
- Asan Medical Center International Clinic: https://www.amc.seoul.kr/asan/foreigner/eng/main.do (amc.seoul.kr in Bing)
- Samsung Medical Center Global: https://www.samsunghospital.com/global/en
- Severance Hospital Global: https://www.yuhs.or.kr/global/
- Korea Travel Insurance: https://www.tourinsurance.co.kr (tourinsurance.co.kr in Bing)
