International Patient Guide — Korean hospital guide
International Patient Guide

Arriving in Korea for Medical Care

From Arrival to Your First Hospital Visit

Quick summary
After arrival
Keep hospital details accessible
Multiple campuses
Confirm the exact location
Flight delayed
Contact the hospital
First appointment
Bring requested documents
Tests scheduled
Follow preparation instructions
Major hospital
Arrive early
International Center
Use it when available

After arriving in Korea for medical care, international patients should focus on reaching their accommodation safely, preparing for the appointment, and confirming the hospital's instructions.

Arriving in Korea for Medical Care

KEEP YOUR HOSPITAL INFORMATION READY

Save important information on your phone and keep a backup copy when possible:

  • Hospital name
  • Exact hospital campus
  • Medical department
  • Doctor's name, if assigned
  • Appointment date and time
  • International patient center contact
  • Hospital address
  • Appointment confirmation

Large hospital systems may operate multiple locations, so confirming the exact campus is important.

FROM THE AIRPORT

Korea's major airports provide several transportation options into cities.

Depending on your destination and physical condition, options may include:

  • Airport railroad
  • Airport bus
  • Taxi
  • Pre-arranged transportation

Patients with limited mobility or those traveling after significant medical treatment should consider accessibility and comfort when choosing transportation.

CONTACT THE HOSPITAL IF NECESSARY

If your flight is significantly delayed or you believe you may miss your appointment, contact the hospital or international patient coordinator as soon as possible.

Do not assume the appointment will automatically remain available.

PREPARE FOR YOUR FIRST VISIT

Before going to the hospital, check that you have:

Arriving in Korea for Medical Care

Passport / ID

Appointment Confirmation

Medical Records

Medication Information

Arriving in Korea for Medical Care

Insurance Information

Payment Method

Bring any additional documents specifically requested by the hospital.

FOLLOW PRE-EXAMINATION INSTRUCTIONS

Some medical examinations require:

  • Fasting
  • Medication adjustments
  • Avoiding certain foods or drinks
  • Arrival before the scheduled appointment
  • Other medical preparation

Follow the instructions provided by the hospital.

If instructions are unclear, contact the hospital rather than guessing.

ARRIVE EARLY

Major Korean hospitals can be large.

First-time international patients may need additional time for:

Finding the Building → Registration → Document Verification → International Patient Center → Medical Department

Allow sufficient time before your appointment.

INTERNATIONAL PATIENT CENTER

If your hospital has an International Healthcare Center, it may be the best first point of contact.

Depending on the hospital, staff may assist with:

  • Registration
  • Appointment confirmation
  • Interpretation arrangements
  • Directions within the hospital
  • Administrative procedures

Official resources

Korea Airports Corporation

www.airport.co.kr

Incheon International Airport

www.airport.kr

Korea Health Industry Development Institute

www.khidi.or.kr

ASK KOREA Transit