City, South Korea
Healthcare in Busan: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Busan
High-quality hospitals at modest prices. English is limited outside the international desks; call 119 for an ambulance.
Hospitals for foreigners in Busan
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Pusan National University Hospital | Large public university hospital in Seo-gu |
| Haeundae Paik Hospital | Near Haeundae; handles foreign patients |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ₩15,000–50,000 ($11–37) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In South Korea: High-quality, fast and fairly cheap care; big Seoul hospitals run international clinics with English. Visitors pay out of pocket, so carry travel insurance.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies (yakguk) are everywhere but close evenings and Sundays; convenience stores sell basic painkillers and cold medicine.
- Health spending: US$3,137 per person a year (2024); 2.6 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 112 · Ambulance 119 · Fire 119 · Tourist police 1330.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter South Korea, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Busan for foreigners?
Pusan National University Hospital: Large public university hospital in Seo-gu
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Busan?
About ₩15,000–50,000 ($11–37) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for South Korea?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in South Korea expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Busan
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: South Korea
- Visit Busan
- Busan Transportation Corporation
- Gimhae International Airport (Korea Airports Corporation)
- Korail (KTX)
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.