If you receive treatment in Korea, your clinic may prescribe medication or recommend that you purchase certain items from a pharmacy.
Understanding the basic process can make recovery easier.
Clinics and pharmacies are often separate
In many situations, you may receive a prescription from the clinic and then take it to a pharmacy.
The pharmacy may be:
In the same building
Next door
Across the street
Nearby
Ask the clinic staff where you should go.
Keep the prescription with you
If you receive a prescription, do not throw it away before receiving your medication.
At the pharmacy, you may need to provide:
Prescription
Name
Other information requested by the pharmacy
The pharmacist will prepare the medication according to the prescription.
Prescription → Pharmacy → Medication
Ask how to take each medication
Before leaving the pharmacy or clinic, make sure you understand:
Medication name
Dose
How many times per day
How many days
Before or after meals
Possible restrictions
What to do if you miss a dose
If instructions are written only in Korean and you do not understand them, ask for clarification.
Keep medications in their original packaging
This makes it easier to identify:
Drug name
Dose
Prescription instructions
It can also help if another medical professional needs to know what you are taking.
Tell the clinic about your existing medications
Before treatment, inform the clinic about:
Prescription drugs
Over-the-counter medication
Supplements
Herbal products
Allergies
Do not stop or change an existing medication solely because you saw generic advice online.
Ask your treating medical professional.
Bringing your own medication to Korea
If you take regular medication, prepare before travel.
Bring:
Enough medication for the trip
Original packaging
Prescription or doctor's documentation when appropriate
Some medications can be subject to import restrictions or special rules.
If you take controlled or restricted medication, check Korean requirements before traveling.
Do not buy medication based only on appearance
Packaging and brand names can differ between countries.
Do not assume that a medicine with similar packaging is equivalent to one you use at home.
Ask a pharmacist or medical professional.
Finding a pharmacy
In Korea, pharmacies commonly display the Korean word:
약국
Learning this sign can be useful.
Your clinic, hotel, or map app can also help you locate a nearby pharmacy.
Keep medication information before flying home
Save:
Medication name
Dose
Prescribing clinic
Duration
Why it was prescribed
This can be useful if you need medical care after returning home.
Medication checklist
✓ Existing medication list prepared
✓ Allergies disclosed
✓ Prescription received
✓ Dosage understood
✓ Medication kept in original package
✓ Enough medication for travel
✓ Clinic contact saved
Important
Medication needs and restrictions depend on your treatment and health situation.
Follow the instructions of your doctor and pharmacist.