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How Do I See an ENT Doctor in Korea as a Foreigner in Gangnam, Seoul?

Answered by Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD · Board-certified otolaryngologist · Former professor, Yonsei & Ajou University · Consultations in English

You can go directly to an ENT clinic

Korea's outpatient system lets patients choose a specialist clinic directly. Unlike many countries where a general practitioner must refer you first, an ENT clinic (이비인후과, "ibiinhugwa") in Korea is a first-contact clinic. Many Koreans see an ENT for a cold, sore throat or ear problem the same way others would see a family doctor.

A referral is generally needed only for large university hospitals, not for neighborhood specialist clinics like ours.

Step by step: a typical ENT visit

1. Arrive or message us. Walk-ins are common. Messaging the clinic on WhatsApp at +82-10-5344-4464 first helps you check waiting time.
2. Register at reception. Show your passport or Alien Registration Card (ARC). If you are enrolled in Korea's National Health Insurance, your ARC lets the clinic apply your coverage.
3. Brief history. Tell staff your main symptom and how long you have had it.
4. Consultation and exam. The doctor examines your ears, nose and throat, often using a small camera such as nasal endoscopy or laryngoscopy.
5. In-office treatment. Many ENT clinics in Korea suction the nose, apply medication or clean the ear canal during the visit.
6. Pay and collect a prescription. You pay at reception and take the prescription to a pharmacy (약국, "yakguk"), usually in the same building or next door.

Clinic or hospital?

For most ear, nose and throat problems, a specialist clinic is the right first stop. If you need hospital admission, complex imaging under general anesthesia or care for a rare disease, the clinic can write a referral letter to a university hospital.

Things that surprise newcomers

• Visits can be quick, and follow-up visits every few days for nasal or ear care are normal.
• Medications are dispensed in pre-packed daily pouches. Ask the pharmacist to explain each item if you want details.
• Clinics close early on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays and public holidays.

What we do at Gangnam Yonsei ENT

At our clinic, the language barrier is removed at the most important step: the consultation. Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, a board-certified otolaryngologist who previously taught at Yonsei and Ajou University medical schools, explains his findings and treatment options in English. His subspecialty is nose and sinus disease, but he sees the full range of adult ear, nose and throat problems, from sore throat and ear infections to dizziness and hearing loss.

If you need documentation, we can issue an English medical certificate and provide receipts and copies of medical records for your insurer. Our philosophy is "principled care, patient first": you are offered the tests and treatment your condition requires, not extras.

Getting here

The clinic is on the 2nd floor of HS Tower at 703 Seolleung-ro, Gangnam-gu, right in front of Exit 3-1 of Gangnam-gu Office Station (Line 7 and Suin-Bundang Line). See location and hours or read the full international patient guide before you come.

When not to wait for a clinic

For trouble breathing, severe throat swelling with drooling, uncontrolled bleeding, or sudden weakness of the face with severe headache, call 119 or go to a hospital emergency department.

Related questions

Do I need a referral to see an ENT in Korea?

No. Private specialist clinics, including ENT clinics, accept patients directly. Referrals are mainly required for tertiary university hospitals. You can walk into Gangnam Yonsei ENT Clinic during opening hours or message us on WhatsApp to check the wait.

Can I see an ENT if I am only visiting Korea as a tourist?

Yes. Tourists and short-term visitors are seen like any other patient. Bring your passport, pay at reception, and request receipts or an English medical certificate if your travel insurer needs them for reimbursement.

Where do I get my medicine after the visit?

The clinic gives you a prescription, which you take to a nearby pharmacy. Pharmacists in Korea dispense prescription drugs, and several are located close to our building near Gangnam-gu Office Station.

This answer is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis. Please see a doctor for an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.