Written by
John Spencer
John Spencer is the founder of Compare Expat Plans, focusing on clear, neutral information to help people find health coverage abroad.
Last updated: January 27, 2026
Quick Summary: Health Insurance in South Korea
- NHIS (National Health Insurance) is mandatory for all foreigners staying 6+ months—no opting out.
- NHIS costs approximately ₩130,000-180,000/month ($100-140) and covers about 60-70% of medical costs.
- Most expats add private insurance to cover the 30-40% copay, dental, vision, and English-speaking services.
- Korean healthcare quality is excellent—the country is a top medical tourism destination.
- English-speaking doctors are available in Seoul and major cities but not guaranteed elsewhere.
Do You Need Private Health Insurance in South Korea?
Since July 2019, all foreigners staying in South Korea for 6 months or longer must enroll in NHIS (National Health Insurance Service). This applies to E-2 English teachers, E-7 skilled workers, D-10 job seekers, and all long-term visa holders. NHIS is not optional—you'll be auto-enrolled and billed. Many expats add private insurance to supplement NHIS coverage gaps.
Insurance is required for:
- All visa holders staying 6+ months—NHIS enrollment is mandatory
- E-2 English teachers (employer typically covers 50% of NHIS)
- E-7 skilled workers and professionals
- F-2/F-4/F-5/F-6 residence visa holders
- Anyone wanting English-speaking doctors and private rooms
- Expats needing dental, vision, or mental health coverage (limited in NHIS)
Public vs Private Healthcare in South Korea
Public Healthcare
NHIS (National Health Insurance Service)
- Access: Mandatory for all residents staying 6+ months, including foreigners
- Cost: ₩130,000-180,000/month ($100-140), or 7% of income for employees (split with employer)
Covers about 60-70% of costs. You pay 30-40% copay at point of service. Excellent hospital infrastructure. Limited English support outside Seoul. Dental and vision coverage is minimal.
Private Healthcare
International or Local Private
- Access: Open to anyone
- Cost: $100-300/month for supplemental; $250-450/month for comprehensive international
Local Korean insurers (Samsung, Hyundai) offer affordable supplemental plans. International insurers provide English support, coverage outside Korea, and direct billing at international clinics.
Plan Options to Compare
Here are the most popular insurance options for expats in South Korea. Each has trade-offs depending on your situation.
Cigna Global
Best for: Supplementing NHIS with global coverage and English support at international clinics
Not ideal for: Those only needing basic NHIS gap coverage (local Korean plans cheaper)
Allianz Care
Best for: E-7 professionals wanting high-deductible plans to reduce costs alongside NHIS
Not ideal for: E-2 teachers on tight budgets
BUPA Global
Best for: Mental health coverage and pre-existing conditions (limited under NHIS)
Not ideal for: Those seeking the lowest premiums
IMG Global
Best for: Budget-friendly NHIS supplement for E-2 English teachers
Not ideal for: Those wanting premium international clinic access
Comparison Table: Top Expat Health Plans for South Korea
Compare the leading options side by side. Click "Details" to learn more about each provider.
| Provider | Best For | Coverage Style | Includes U.S.? | Notable Limits | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna Global | Supplementing NHIS with global | International comprehensive | Higher cost than local options | Details → | |
| Allianz Care | E-7 professionals wanting high-deductible | International comprehensive | Deductibles apply to savings | Details → | |
| BUPA Global | Mental health coverage and | International premium | Premium pricing | Details → | |
| IMG Global | Budget-friendly NHIS supplement for | International standard | 12-month pre-existing exclusion | Details → |
Common Watch-outs for South Korea
Keep these points in mind when choosing coverage:
- NHIS is mandatory—you cannot opt out, even with private insurance. Budget for both.
- NHIS only covers 60-70% of costs. The 30-40% copay can add up for major procedures.
- Dental coverage under NHIS is very limited—consider supplemental dental insurance.
- English-speaking doctors are concentrated in Seoul. Outside major cities, language barriers exist.
- Mental health coverage is limited under NHIS and Korean private plans.
- If you leave Korea, NHIS coverage ends. International insurance provides continuity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NHIS mandatory for expats in South Korea?
Yes. Since July 2019, all foreigners staying 6+ months must enroll in NHIS. This includes E-2 teachers, E-7 workers, and all long-term visa holders. You cannot opt out, even if you have private insurance. Enrollment is automatic when you register your visa.
How much does NHIS cost for expats?
NHIS costs approximately ₩130,000-180,000/month ($100-140) for individuals. Employed expats pay about 3.5% of salary (employer pays the other 3.5%). Self-employed and unemployed foreigners pay based on income, assets, and age, with a minimum floor.
What does NHIS cover?
NHIS covers about 60-70% of costs for doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, prescriptions, and basic dental. You pay the remaining 30-40% as a copay. Coverage is comprehensive for medical care but limited for dental, vision, and mental health services.
Do I need private insurance if I have NHIS?
Many expats add private insurance to cover: (1) the 30-40% copay gap, (2) dental and vision care, (3) English-speaking international clinics, (4) private hospital rooms, and (5) coverage when traveling outside Korea. It's not required but highly recommended.
How good is Korean healthcare?
Korean healthcare is excellent—world-class hospitals, advanced technology, and highly trained doctors. South Korea is a top medical tourism destination. The main challenges for expats are language barriers outside Seoul and navigating the system without Korean language skills.
Can I see English-speaking doctors in Korea?
Yes, in Seoul and major cities. International clinics like Severance International Health Care, Samsung Medical Center International, and Asan Medical Center have English-speaking staff. Outside Seoul, English support is limited—bring a Korean speaker or use translation apps.
Related: Comparisons and Next Steps
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Healthcare policies, insurance requirements, and visa rules change. We are not insurance brokers, immigration consultants, or licensed advisors. Verify all information with official sources and insurance providers before making decisions.