I am curious about traditional Korean medicine?
I am curious about traditional Korean medicine. What is it, how does it work, what conditions does it treat, and can foreigners use NHIS coverage at a Korean medicine clinic?
1 Answer
Korean traditional medicine, called hanbang or hanui, is a complete medical system that uses herbal prescriptions, acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and pulse diagnosis. Practitioners are licensed doctors who complete six years of training at universities like Kyung Hee or Wonkwang, and they hold a separate license from Western medicine doctors. Common treatments target chronic pain, digestive issues, fatigue, postpartum recovery, fertility support, and stress-related conditions.
NHIS does cover Korean medicine clinics, but only for specific items like acupuncture, moxibustion, and some consultation fees. A typical acupuncture session with insurance ends up around 5,000 to 10,000 won out of pocket. Most herbal decoctions (탕약) are not covered and can cost between 100,000 and 400,000 won for a one-month supply.
To use NHIS coverage you just need to bring your ARC and NHIS card to any clinic with the 한의원 sign. Kyung Hee Korean Medicine Hospital in Dongdaemun and Jaseng Hospital have English-speaking staff if language is a concern, and Jaseng is especially known for spine and joint care.