What vaccinations are available in Korea for adults?
What vaccinations are available in Korea for adults? Which ones are free, which are covered by insurance, and how do I get them as a foreigner?
1 Answer
I got several vaccines done in Korea last year as an adult on D-10 visa. The good news is that most international vaccines are widely available here and quality is excellent.
With National Health Insurance (NHIS), some vaccines are subsidized or free for specific age groups. Influenza is free seasonally for those 65 and older and for children, but adults under 65 typically pay around 25,000 to 40,000 won at a clinic. Tetanus boosters, hepatitis A and B, MMR, and HPV are partially covered depending on age and risk category.
For travel vaccines like Japanese encephalitis, typhoid, rabies, or yellow fever, you usually need to go to a designated international travel clinic. Seoul National University Hospital, Severance, and Asan Medical Center all have international travel clinics. Costs range from 30,000 to 150,000 won per dose.
Covid vaccines have been free for everyone including foreigners regardless of insurance status. For any vaccine, bring your ARC and insurance card. Larger clinics in Itaewon and Gangnam tend to have English-speaking staff. Booking ahead by phone or KakaoTalk is recommended.