Healthcare in Korea — Korean hospital guide
Healthcare in Korea

Appointments, Registration & Reception

What to Expect Before Seeing a Doctor in Korea

Quick summary
Local Clinic
Walk-ins are often possible
Major Hospital
Check appointment requirements
First Visit
Bring identification and relevant documents
International Patient
Look for the International Healthcare Center
Language Assistance
Confirm availability before visiting
Emergency
Call 119

The registration process in Korea varies depending on the medical institution. Small neighborhood clinics are often simple to visit, while large hospitals may require appointments and additional registration procedures.

Appointments, Registration & Reception

BEFORE YOU VISIT

Check the medical institution's official website or contact the hospital to confirm:

  • Opening hours
  • Medical department
  • Appointment requirements
  • Referral requirements
  • International patient services
  • Available language assistance

Large hospitals may allow international patients to arrange appointments through a dedicated International Healthcare Center.

WALK-IN OR APPOINTMENT?

Local Clinics

Many local clinics accept patients without advance appointments. Registration is usually completed when you arrive.

Appointments, Registration & Reception

Major Hospitals

Appointments are commonly recommended or required, particularly for specialist consultations.

Procedures vary by hospital and department.

AT THE RECEPTION DESK

When you arrive, look for:

Reception / Registration / Information / International Healthcare Center

You may be asked for:

  • Passport or Residence Card
  • Contact information
  • Health insurance information
  • Reason for your visit
  • Medical department
  • Referral documents, if applicable
Appointments, Registration & Reception

FIRST-TIME PATIENTS

If this is your first visit, the hospital may create a patient record before your consultation.

Large hospitals may issue a patient or registration number used for future appointments, examinations and payments.

INTERNATIONAL PATIENT DESK

Some major Korean hospitals operate dedicated services for international patients.

Depending on the hospital, assistance may include:

  • Appointment coordination
  • Registration assistance
  • Interpretation
  • Guidance between departments
  • Medical document assistance
  • Payment or insurance guidance

Services and supported languages vary by institution.

ARRIVE EARLY

For a first visit to a large hospital, arriving early is sensible because registration, document verification and finding the correct department may take additional time.

Official resources

Ministry of Health and Welfare

www.mohw.go.kr

Emergency Medical Information — E-GEN

www.e-gen.or.kr

ASK KOREA Transit