Navigating Korean Pharmacies: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats

 

 

 

Today, I'd like to talk about what to do if you suddenly fall ill in Korea as a foreigner. We've all experienced getting sick while traveling, and it can be especially daunting in an unfamiliar country. So, let's break down how to buy medication or get treatment in Korea into three categories.

 

1. Medicines Available at Pharmacies

Korean pharmacies are incredibly convenient. You can easily purchase most over-the-counter medications here. Pharmacists are generally friendly and many can communicate in English, so they can recommend appropriate medication if you explain your symptoms.

Here are some common medicines you can buy at pharmacies:

 

Fever reducers and pain relievers: Tylenol, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, etc.
Cold medicines: Pancol, Theraflu, etc.
Digestive aids: Bearse, Festal, etc.
Anti-diarrheal medications: Smecta, Loperamide, etc.
Allergy medications: Zyrtec, Claritin, etc.
Skin ointments: Fusidic acid, Madecassol, etc.
Vitamins and supplements

 

There are many other over-the-counter medications available too. Just describe your symptoms in detail to the pharmacist, and they'll recommend suitable medication.

 

2. Medicines Available at Convenience Stores

Sometimes you might fall ill late at night or when there's no pharmacy nearby. In these cases, convenience stores can be a lifesaver! In Korea, you can purchase 13 types of 'safe over-the-counter drugs' at convenience stores 24/7.

List of medications available at convenience stores:

 

Fever reducers and pain relievers: Tylenol, Children's Tylenol, Children's Brufen Syrup, etc.
Cold medicines: Pancol-A solution, Panpyrin T tablets
Digestive aids: Bearse tablets, Dr. Bearse tablets, Festal Gold tablets, Festal Plus tablets
Pain relief patches: Jeil Cool Patch, Shin Shin Pas 

 

These medicines can help with mild symptoms. However, note that the quantity of medicine sold at convenience stores is less than at pharmacies. For example, Tylenol 500mg is sold as 10 tablets in pharmacies but only 8 tablets in convenience stores.

 

3. Medicines That Require Hospital Treatment

Lastly, if you have severe symptoms or need prescription medication, you must visit a hospital. Seek medical attention
immediately in the following cases:

High fever lasting more than 3 days
Severe abdominal pain or headache
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Severe allergic reactions
Suspected fractures or serious injuries
Worsening symptoms of chronic diseases

 

 

In Korean hospitals, you'll receive a prescription after a doctor's diagnosis, which you can then use to purchase medication at a pharmacy. Antibiotics, steroids, blood pressure medication, diabetes medication, and other prescription drugs always require a doctor's prescription.

 

 

Everyone, I know it can be worrying and scary to fall ill in a foreign country. But Korea's medical system is really well-established. Many hospitals operate 24/7, and there are international clinics where you can receive treatment in English. In case of emergencies, you can call 119 for quick assistance. One last tip: I recommend getting travel insurance before your trip. This can help you avoid being surprised by unexpected medical expenses. Have a healthy trip! I hope your time in Korea is enjoyable and happy.