Feeling sick in Seoul: pharmacies, medicine and what to say

A cold, a headache or an upset stomach can happen on any trip. In Seoul, help is usually a short walk away.

This is general travel information, not medical advice. If symptoms are severe or getting worse, see a doctor. In an emergency, call 119.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies are called yakguk (약국). Look for the Korean character 약 on the sign. Pharmacists can recommend over-the-counter medicine for common symptoms.

• Most pharmacies close in the evening, and many close on Sundays.
• On Sundays and public holidays, some pharmacies take turns staying open. Search “pharmacy” or 약국 in Naver Map or KakaoMap to see which ones are open now.
• Bring the box of any medicine you already take, so the pharmacist can check it.

Convenience stores

Convenience stores sell a small range of household medicines, such as pain relievers, cold medicine, digestive aids and pain-relief patches. They are open 24 hours, which helps late at night. The choice is limited, so visit a pharmacy if you need something specific.

Phrases to show the pharmacist

Seeing a doctor

For anything more than a minor problem, visit a clinic or hospital. Large hospitals in Seoul have international clinics with English-speaking staff. Call 1330, the Korea Travel Hotline, and they can help you find one nearby.

Keep your receipts and any medical paperwork for your travel insurance claim.

Emergencies

Call 119 for an ambulance. The service can connect you to an interpreter.

Official sources

• Visit Korea — 1330 Korea Travel Hotline

Prices, timetables and rules in Korea change often. We check this guide regularly, but please confirm details with the official sources linked above before you travel.