Stay Healthy in Korea: How to Get a Free Health Check-Up

LIFE

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06 Feb 2025

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3 minute read

As a foreign student in Korea, taking care of your health is essential. Being far from home and getting sick can be stressful, so it’s important to stay on top of your health. Luckily, the Korean government offers free health check-ups, and I’m here to guide you through the process!

Foreign students in Korea can get a free health check-up once every two years. If you are working, you can receive it once a year. This check-up includes:

✔️ Consultation with a doctor

✔️ Physical examination

✔️ Diagnostic tests

✔️ Pathological tests

✔️ Imaging tests

The whole process takes just a few hours, making it a quick and convenient way to monitor your health. If you want additional tests like an ultrasound or endoscopy, you can request them for an extra fee.

Booking your check-up is simple. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the 한국건강관리협회 (KH) Website

Go to the 검진예약 (Reserve a Check-Up) section.
While the website has an English version (You can see detailed information about the exam and prices if you want the exams without health insurence), you must apply using the Korean page.

2. Verify Your Identity & Choose a Location

Fill in your details and select a medical center.

If you are in Seoul, you can choose from:

서울서부지부 (Seoul West Branch)

서울동부지부 (Seoul East Branch)

서울강남지부 (Seoul Gangnam Branch).

There are also centers available in other cities across Korea.

3. Receive Confirmation & Exam Details

You will receive an SMS with preparation instructions and details about your appointment.
The clinic will call you the next day to confirm your reservation and ask if you would like to add any extra tests.
If you don’t answer the call, your appointment will still be confirmed automatically.

4. Fill Out the Health Questionnaire

Before your check-up date, you will receive a health questionnaire. Make sure to complete it in advance to speed up the check-up process.

What to Expect on the Day of the Check-Up

On the day of your appointment, you will receive a checklist paper that the staff will use to track your progress through the tests. Here’s what the process looks like: