STD Testing in Korea: General Information & Essential Details

Confidential & English-Friendly Care in Seoul


Contact Us

STD Testing for Foreigners in South Korea: A Complete Guide


Navigating STD testing in South Korea can be straightforward, with various options available for both residents and visitors. Here's a comprehensive guide:


Where to Get STD Tested in Korea

You have a few main options for STD testing in South Korea:

  1. Public Health Centers (Bogeonso - 보건소):
  • Pros: Often offer free and anonymous HIV testing, and sometimes free testing for other STDs like syphilis, gonorrhea, and non-gonococcal urethritis.
  • Cons: While HIV testing is often anonymous, you might need to present identification (like an Alien Registration Card or passport) for other STD tests, depending on the center. The range of STDs tested might be more limited compared to private clinics.
  • Example: Guro Public Health Center offers free STD and AIDS testing for eligible residents and anonymous HIV testing for all who wish to get tested.
  1. Private Clinics (Urology, OB/GYN, or General Clinics):
  • Pros:
  • Confidentiality: Generally ensure patient confidentiality.
  • Comprehensive Testing: Offer a wider range of STD tests, including full STD panels that may cover HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV, and hepatitis.
  • English-speaking Staff: Many clinics, especially in major cities like Seoul (Gangnam, Myeongdong, Apgujeong), have English-speaking staff or international patient liaisons, making the process smoother for foreigners.
  • Faster Results: Some clinics offer same-day rapid HIV tests, and other results are typically available within 1-5 business days.
  • Convenience: Walk-ins are often accepted, though appointments are recommended, especially during busy hours.
  • Cons: Testing at private clinics is generally not free and will incur costs.


  1. KHAP (Korea HIV/AIDS Prevention):
  • Pros: Offers free and anonymous rapid HIV and STI screening services specifically for foreigners. They have a rotating clinic schedule and locations, so it's best to check their website for the most up-to-date information.
  • Cons: May only offer certain tests on specific days or locations. They primarily focus on testing and may not provide treatment directly.


Types of STD Tests Available

Common STD tests offered in Korea include:

  • Blood Tests: Used to detect HIV, syphilis, herpes simplex virus (HSV-1/2), and hepatitis B/C.
  • Urine Tests: Commonly used for detecting chlamydia and gonorrhea.
  • Swab Tests: Vaginal, cervical, throat, urethral, or rectal swabs may be used for more targeted testing, especially if symptoms are present.
  • Rapid HIV Test: Results are often available within 20-30 minutes.
  • Full STD Panels: Comprehensive packages that screen for multiple infections at once.


The Testing Process

Generally, the process at private clinics involves:

  1. Registration: Filling out a registration form with personal details (for result delivery) and providing identification (Alien Registration Card or passport, especially for insurance purposes).
  2. Consultation: Discussing any symptoms or concerns with a healthcare provider who will recommend appropriate tests.
  3. Testing: Undergoing the recommended tests (blood, urine, or swab).
  4. Payment: Paying for the tests. Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) may cover some costs if you have symptoms; otherwise, tests are out-of-pocket.
  5. Results: Results are typically sent via email within 1-5 business days, though rapid tests provide immediate results. Follow-up consultation and treatment options will be provided if any tests are positive.


Cost of STD Testing

Costs can vary significantly depending on the clinic and the types of tests you get:

  • Public Health Centers: Often free for certain tests (especially HIV).
  • Private Clinics:
  • Basic STD panel (HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia): ₩100,000 to ₩250,000 (approx. $75 to $185 USD).
  • Comprehensive panel (including herpes, hepatitis, HPV): ₩250,000 to ₩400,000 (approx. $185 to $300 USD).
  • Rapid HIV test: ₩30,000 to ₩70,000 (approx. $22 to $50 USD).
  • Individual test (e.g., gonorrhea or chlamydia): ₩30,000 to ₩80,000 per test (approx. $22 to $60 USD).
  • Some clinics offer bundled packages.
  • If you have Korean National Health Insurance, some tests may be partially covered, especially if you report symptoms. Some patients have reported being advised to state mild symptoms to get coverage.


Confidentiality and Anonymity

  • Public Health Centers and KHAP: Often offer anonymous testing, particularly for HIV.
  • Private Clinics: Your medical records are confidential and generally for your eyes only, adhering to Korean law. Clinics emphasize discretion and privacy.


Important Considerations

  • When to Get Tested: It's recommended to get tested after unprotected sex, with a new sexual partner, if you experience any symptoms (unusual discharge, pain during urination, genital sores), or as part of a routine health check if you are sexually active.
  • Waiting Period: For HIV, it typically takes three months for antibodies to develop for a clear result, though in rare cases it can take up to six months.
  • Treatment: If a test is positive, immediate treatment with antibiotics or antivirals can be started. Clinics also encourage partner notification and treatment to prevent reinfection.
  • Language Barrier: While many clinics in Seoul offer English-speaking staff, it's always a good idea to confirm beforehand or consider bringing a Korean-speaking friend if you're concerned about communication.



Overall, South Korea offers accessible and confidential STD testing services, with options ranging from free public health center tests to comprehensive private clinic screenings.