Korea (Republic Of) Health

Vaccinations

  Special Precautions
Diphtheria Yes
Hepatitis A Sometimes
Malaria Sometimes
Rabies No
Tetanus Yes
Typhoid Yes
Yellow Fever No
Inoculation regulations can change at short notice. Please take medical advice in the case of doubt. Where 'Sometimes' appears in the table above, precautions may be required, depending on the season and region visited.

Food and Drink

Mains water is normally chlorinated and may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available, as is powdered or tinned milk. Avoid unpasteurised milk and products made from it, such as ice cream. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked, fruit peeled. Food from street vendors is eaten at your own risk.

Other Risks

Japanese encephalitis may be transmitted by mosquitoes between June and October in rural areas. A vaccine is available, and travellers are advised to consult their doctor prior to departure. Hepatitis B is highly endemic. Tuberculosis occurs. Rabies may be present. For those at high risk, vaccination should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay.

Health Care

High quality medical care is available in Seoul, Pusan and Daegu, but may be difficult to locate in rural areas. Comprehensive health insurance is recommended, as are the international clinics at hospitals like Seoul's Severance Hospital, Asan Medical Centre or Samsung Medical Centre. Almost all hospitals require payment and registration prior to treatment. Most nurses and receptionists do not speak English.
Need some holiday inspiration?
Tired of the same holiday destination?
Fresh ideas are just one click away...
Sign up for our newsletter
Be the first to hear about the coolest destinations and the latest travel trends. Plus, competitions, holiday inspiration and amusing facts, delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up for our newsletter
Advertisement

Travel Deals

Advertising features
Travel Partners
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Spot the holiday killer - Protect yourself from malaria. Before you travel, find out if your holiday destination is in a malaria zone.

Quick links