Part 2 : Useful Korean Phrases for Hospitals and Pharmacies: A Foreigner’s Guide

🩺 Visiting Hospitals and Pharmacies in Korea: Useful Phrases and Tips

Going to the doctor or pharmacy in a foreign country can feel stressful—especially when you don’t know the language. To make your experience easier, here are some practical Korean phrases with English translations that you can use (or simply show on your phone) when visiting hospitals and pharmacies in Korea.

1. At the Hospital

Making an Appointment and Checking In

• “예약했습니다.” (I have an appointment)

• ”[이름]으로 예약했습니다.” (I have an appointment under [name])

• “예약을 변경하고 싶습니다.” (I’d like to change my appointment)

• “오늘 예약 가능한가요?” (Is there an appointment available today?)

Communicating with Staff

• “통역이 필요합니다.” (I need an interpreter)

• “영어 가능한 의사 선생님 계신가요?” (Is there a doctor who speaks English?)

• “보험 적용이 되나요?” (Does insurance cover this?)

• “영수증을 발급해 주실 수 있나요?” (Could I get a receipt?)

Describing Symptoms

• “열이 납니다.” (I have a fever)

• “기침이 심합니다.” (I have a bad cough)

• “복통이 있습니다.” (I have stomach pain)

• “어지럽습니다.” (I feel dizzy)

• “알레르기가 있습니다.” (I have an allergy)

💡 Tip: Write your symptoms in advance on a memo app or piece of paper—it helps avoid confusion and saves time.

2. At the Pharmacy

Submitting a Prescription

• “처방전을 제출합니다.” (Here is my prescription)

• “처방전을 분실했는데 다시 받을 수 있나요?” (I lost my prescription—can I get another one?)

👉 Note: In Korea, prescriptions are single-use. You give it to the pharmacy and do not get it back.

Asking Questions About Medication

• “하루에 몇 번 먹어야 하나요?” (How many times a day should I take this?)

• “식사 전/후 언제 먹어야 하나요?” (Should I take this before or after meals?)

• “부작용이 있나요?” (Are there any side effects?)

• “이 약은 졸음을 유발하나요?” (Does this medicine cause drowsiness?)

Buying Over-the-Counter Medicine

• “감기약 추천해 주실 수 있나요?” (Can you recommend medecine for a cold?)

• “두통약 있나요?” (Do you have medicine for headaches?)

• “소화제 있나요?” (Do you have something for indigestion?)

💡 Tip: Pharmacies in Korea usually open 9AM–6PM and close on Sundays. Larger areas like Seoul Station or Gangnam may have 24-hour pharmacies.

3. Extra Tips for Foreign Visitors

• Carry your Foreign Registration Card (RC) or passport for identification.

• If you have health insurance, always bring your insurance card.

• Keep a list of your current medications in English and Korean, if possible.

• Don’t be afraid to use a translation app—most pharmacists and staff are patient and willing to help.

✍️ Final Thoughts

Visiting a hospital or pharmacy in Korea doesn’t have to be stressful. With just a few key phrases, you can communicate your needs clearly and confidently.

👉 Save this guide on your phone, and next time you feel unwell, you’ll be ready to handle the situation with ease.

Stay tuned for Part 3: Emergency Care and After-Hours Medical Help in Korea.