How to Get Health Insurance in Korea for Travel (2025 Guide)
Traveling to South Korea, with its vibrant cities, historic sites, and delicious cuisine, is an unforgettable experience. However, no matter how exciting the trip, unexpected accidents or illnesses can happen.
Travel health insurance is crucial to protect yourself from costly medical bills during your stay in Korea. In this guide, we’ll explain how to get health insurance for travel to Korea, why you need it, what it covers, and the best options for travelers.
Why Do You Need Travel Health Insurance for Korea?
South Korea has an excellent healthcare system, but it’s not free for tourists or foreigners without proper insurance. Without coverage, even a simple hospital visit can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Health insurance for travel to Korea:
- Covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, and doctor visits
- Provides protection against unexpected accidents
- Offers peace of mind during your journey
- Sometimes is required for visa applications (depending on stay length)
Travel insurance can also cover things like trip cancellation, lost luggage, and emergency evacuation.
What Does Korean Travel Health Insurance Typically Cover?
When purchasing health insurance for Korea, make sure it includes:
- Emergency Medical Treatment: Coverage for doctor consultations, hospital stays, and urgent surgeries.
- COVID-19 Treatment: Many policies now cover COVID-19 related expenses, including quarantine costs.
- Emergency Medical Evacuation: If needed, transportation to a medical facility or back to your home country.
- Prescription Medications: Costs for prescribed drugs due to illness or injury.
- Accidental Death & Dismemberment: Financial protection for serious injuries or death.
Optional coverage might include:
- Travel delays
- Baggage loss
- Personal liability
How to Get Health Insurance for Travel to Korea
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
1. Decide What Type of Coverage You Need
Are you staying for a week, a month, or longer?
Short trips usually only need single-trip insurance, while longer stays may require expat insurance or international health insurance.
2. Research Reputable Travel Insurance Providers
Some popular international insurance companies offering plans for Korea include:
Compare what’s included and excluded in each policy before deciding.
3. Compare Plans Carefully
When comparing policies, look for:
- Coverage limits (preferably over $100,000)
- Deductibles (lower is better if you prefer fewer out-of-pocket expenses)
- Exclusions (what’s NOT covered)
- 24/7 customer support availability
4. Purchase Before You Travel
It’s important to buy insurance before leaving your home country.
Many insurance policies won’t be valid if you’re already abroad when you purchase.
5. Keep Documentation Handy
After purchasing, keep a digital and printed copy of your insurance policy, ID numbers, and emergency contact numbers accessible during your trip.
Special Cases: Long-Term Travel or Work in Korea
If you plan to stay in Korea long-term (over 90 days) for work, study, or residence, you might need to join Korea’s National Health Insurance (NHI) system.
- Eligibility: Foreigners living in Korea for six months or longer.
- Application: Through the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) after receiving an Alien Registration Card (ARC).
- Cost: About 130,000 KRW (~$100 USD) per month (as of 2025).
- Coverage: Doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, vaccinations, and some dental services.
Best Travel Health Insurance Providers for Korea (2025)
Here’s a quick snapshot:
| Provider | Best For | Coverage Amount |
|---|---|---|
| SafetyWing | Digital nomads & travelers | Up to $250,000 |
| World Nomads | Adventure activities coverage | Up to $100,000+ |
| Allianz | Comprehensive plans | Varies |
| AXA | Affordable premiums | Up to $100,000+ |
| IMG Global | Long-term stays | Flexible plans |
Tip: Always read the fine print and ask questions before committing.
What to Do in Case of a Medical Emergency in Korea
If you need urgent medical help in Korea:
- Call 119 for ambulance services.
- Go to a major hospital where English-speaking staff are available (Seoul National University Hospital, Samsung Medical Center, etc.).
- Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible for guidance on claims and coverage.
Keep receipts and medical records for insurance reimbursement.
Final Thoughts
Getting health insurance for travel to Korea isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
It protects your health, finances, and peace of mind while you explore the vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and amazing cities of South Korea.
Before you book that flight, take the time to invest in a good insurance plan tailored to your needs. It’s a small price to pay for ensuring your journey remains safe, secure, and stress-free.