In Korea, the doctor who treats you and the pharmacy that fills your prescription are usually separate. If a dermatologist prescribes medicine, you generally take the prescription to a pharmacy (약국, yakguk). This guide explains how that works and what to ask.
How it works
- The clinic issues a prescription (처방전, cheobangjeon) after your consultation. Some medicines are dispensed at the clinic, so ask.
- You take it to a pharmacy. Pharmacies are common near clinics, and the clinic can tell you which one is nearby.
- The pharmacist explains how to take it, hands over the medicine and charges you.
Over-the-counter products can be bought at a pharmacy without a prescription, and basic items such as fever reducers and pain relief patches are sold at 24-hour convenience stores. The Korea Times notes that convenience stores offer no pharmacist consultation, so see a clinic if symptoms persist.
Words on a prescription or pharmacy bag
| Korean | Romanised | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 처방전 | cheobangjeon | Prescription |
| 약국 | yakguk | Pharmacy |
| 약 | yak | Medicine |
| 연고 | yeongo | Ointment |
| 크림 | keurim | Cream |
| 복용 | bogyong | Taking (a medicine) |
| 식후 30분 | sikhu 30 bun | 30 minutes after meals |
| 하루 N번 | haru N beon | N times a day |
| 부작용 | bujagyong | Side effects |
What to ask
- What is this medicine called, in English or by its generic name?
- What is it for, and how long should I use it?
- When should I stop, and what side effects mean I should call?
- Can I use it with the products I already use?
- Is it safe if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Bringing medicines into or out of Korea
Rules on carrying prescription medicines across borders differ by country and by drug. Check the rules of the country you are flying to before you leave, and keep medicines in their original packaging with the prescription. We do not cover customs rules on this site, so confirm them with the relevant authority.
Out of hours
Local governments designate late-night pharmacies, and some stay open into the early morning. For help deciding whether a symptom needs an emergency room, call 1339, which provides medical consultation 24 hours a day with interpreter access. In an emergency, call 119.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get the same medicine at home?
Not always. Names and strengths differ between countries. Ask the doctor for the generic name and show it to your own doctor or pharmacist.
Is the cost of a prescription included in the clinic bill?
Usually not. You pay the pharmacy separately. Ask whether the clinic bill includes any medicine.
General information, not medical advice. See the About page for our sources and corrections policy.