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Hearing Test (Audiometry) in Gangnam, Seoul

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

What is a hearing test?

A hearing test assesses how well sound travels through the ear and is processed by the inner ear and hearing nerve. The core test is pure-tone audiometry, done in a sound-treated booth:

• Air conduction: tones are played through headphones at frequencies from low to high pitch, and you signal when you hear them.
• Bone conduction: a vibrator behind the ear sends sound directly to the inner ear, bypassing the ear canal and middle ear.
• Speech audiometry: measures the softest level at which you recognize words and how accurately you repeat them.

Results are plotted on an audiogram. Comparing air and bone conduction distinguishes conductive loss (a problem in the ear canal or middle ear), sensorineural loss (inner ear or nerve), and mixed loss. Hearing is measured in decibels, and thresholds up to about 25 dB are generally considered within normal limits for adults.

Who is it for?

• Anyone noticing gradual hearing loss, including age-related hearing loss
• Sudden hearing loss, which needs testing as soon as possible
• Tinnitus, ear fullness or dizziness
• Exposure to loud noise, such as concerts or workplace machinery
• Ear infections, middle ear fluid, or before and after ear procedures

How it is done at our Gangnam clinic

Dr. Kim Yoo Suk is a board-certified otolaryngologist and former Yonsei clinical assistant professor. While nose and sinus surgery is his subspecialty, he diagnoses and treats all ear conditions. A typical hearing evaluation includes:

1. Examination of the ear canal and eardrum to remove wax or detect infection.
2. Pure-tone and speech audiometry in a quiet booth, usually completed within a short appointment.
3. Tympanometry to assess eardrum movement and middle ear pressure.
4. Review of the audiogram with you, in English.

For sudden sensorineural hearing loss, treatment with steroids, including intratympanic steroid injection, may be discussed promptly because earlier treatment is generally preferred. For permanent loss, hearing aids are an option.

After the test

There is no recovery time. Depending on results, next steps may include treating infection or fluid, earwax removal, medication, hearing protection advice, monitoring with repeat audiograms, or referral for hearing aids or further imaging.

Risks and limitations

Audiometry is completely safe. Accuracy depends on your responses, so fatigue, a cold or a blocked ear can affect results. One-sided or asymmetric sensorineural loss may require MRI to exclude rare causes such as a tumor of the hearing nerve. Seek same-day care for sudden hearing loss in one ear, especially with dizziness; do not assume it is just wax or a blocked ear.

Practical information for foreign patients

Tests are explained in English, and you can take home a copy of your audiogram for your doctor, employer or insurer. Walk-ins and calls are welcome at +82-10-5344-4464. See the ear clinic, Dr. Kim's profile and clinic hours.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a hearing test take?

A standard pure-tone and speech hearing test, together with tympanometry, usually fits within a short appointment. Dr. Kim then reviews the audiogram with you in English and explains whether any further testing or treatment is needed.

Is sudden hearing loss an emergency?

Sudden hearing loss in one ear should be evaluated as soon as possible, ideally within days, because steroid treatment is generally more effective when started early. Do not wait to see whether it improves on its own.

Can I get a copy of my audiogram in English?

Yes. You can request a copy of your audiogram and an English medical certificate, which are useful for insurance claims, workplace health checks or continuing care with an audiologist or ENT in your home country.

This page is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis or a guarantee of results; every treatment carries risks, and suitability is decided only after an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.