Finding a Pharmacy in Korea

Pharmacies are widely available throughout Korea, particularly near hospitals, clinics, transportation hubs, and busy commercial areas.

The Korean word for pharmacy is 약국 (Yakguk), and recognizing this word can make finding a pharmacy much easier.

WHERE TO FIND A PHARMACY

Pharmacies are commonly located:

• Near hospitals and medical clinics
• Around subway stations
• In major shopping districts
• In residential neighborhoods
• Near transportation terminals
• Around large medical centers

Areas surrounding major hospitals often have multiple pharmacies.

USING A PRESCRIPTION

If you receive a prescription after visiting a clinic or hospital, take it to a pharmacy for dispensing.

A common process is:

Medical Consultation → Receive Prescription → Find Pharmacy → Submit Prescription → Receive Medicine

If you are unsure where to go, hospital or clinic staff may be able to tell you where nearby pharmacies are located.

FINDING A PHARMACY ONLINE

Korea's E-GEN Emergency Medical Information service can help users search for medical institutions and pharmacies.

Operating hours can change, particularly at night, on weekends, and during public holidays.

Check current availability before traveling whenever possible.

PHARMACY OR CONVENIENCE STORE?

These are not the same.

Pharmacy (약국)

Dispenses prescription medicines and sells a broader range of medicines with pharmacist assistance.

Convenience Store

Certain designated medicines may be available, but the selection is limited and it does not replace a pharmacy.

For medication questions or prescription medicine, use a pharmacy.

LANGUAGE

English ability varies between pharmacies.

If communication is difficult, useful information to show the pharmacist includes:

• Medicine name
• Active ingredient
• Prescription
• Symptoms when appropriate
• Medication allergies
• Current medications

A translation tool may help with simple communication, but important medication instructions should be clearly understood.

CHECK OPERATING HOURS

Not every pharmacy operates late at night or on public holidays.

Before making a long trip:

Search Pharmacy → Check Hours → Confirm Location → Visit

For after-hours needs, use official emergency medical information services to check available options.