South Korea offers a comprehensive range of contraceptive options, available through OB/GYN clinics (산부인과 - Sanbuingwa). These clinics are generally modern, well-equipped, and many in major cities like Seoul (especially Gangnam) cater to international patients with English-speaking staff.

Here's a breakdown of the common contraception options in Korea, along with key information for foreigners:

1. Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCPs) - "The Pill"

• Types: Both combined oral contraceptive pills (containing estrogen and progestin) and progestin-only pills ("mini-pills") are available.
• Availability:
• Regular daily birth control pills: Many popular brands (e.g., Mercilon, Diane-35, Yaz) are available over-the-counter (OTC) at pharmacies without a prescription in Korea. However, it's highly recommended to consult with an OB/GYN first to ensure it's the right choice for you and to discuss potential side effects and contraindications.
• Fourth-generation progestin-containing OCs: Some newer formulations are prescription-only.
• Cost: ₩10,000 to ₩30,000 KRW (approx. $7 to $22 USD) per month. NHIS does not typically cover OCPs for contraception.
• How to get: Walk into a pharmacy for many types. For a consultation and potentially a wider range of options or specific brands, visit an OB/GYN clinic.

2. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

IUDs are highly effective, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) that are popular in Korea.

• Types:
• Hormonal IUDs: (e.g., Mirena, Kyleena) Release progestin, effective for 3-7 years. Can reduce or stop periods.
• Copper IUDs (Non-Hormonal): (e.g., ParaGard) Last up to 10 years or more. No hormones, but may increase menstrual bleeding and cramping.
• Availability: Requires insertion by a gynecologist at an OB/GYN clinic.
• Cost (Device + Insertion):
• Hormonal IUD: ₩300,000 to ₩500,000 KRW (approx. $220 to $370 USD)
• Copper IUD: ₩200,000 to ₩400,000 KRW (approx. $150 to $300 USD)
• NHIS Coverage: Generally covered by NHIS for contraceptive purposes, significantly reducing your out-of-pocket cost (you'll pay a co-pay).
• How to get: Schedule a consultation at an OB/GYN clinic.

3. Contraceptive Implant

• Type: A small, flexible rod (e.g., Implanon) inserted under the skin of the upper arm. It releases progestin.
• Availability: Requires insertion and removal by a doctor at an OB/GYN clinic.
• Duration: Effective for up to 3 years.
• Cost (Device + Insertion): ₩400,000 to ₩700,000 KRW (approx. $300 to $520 USD).
• NHIS Coverage: Confirm with the clinic, but generally part of the procedure may be covered for medically appropriate indications.
• How to get: Schedule a consultation at an OB/GYN clinic.

4. Contraceptive Injection

• Type: Progestin-only injectable (e.g., Depo-Provera).
• Availability: Administered by a doctor via injection at an OB/GYN clinic.
• Duration: Lasts for 12 weeks (3 months).
• Cost: ₩50,000 to ₩150,000 KRW (approx. $35 to $110 USD) per dose.
• NHIS Coverage: Generally covered by NHIS.
• How to get: Schedule an appointment at an OB/GYN clinic for the injection every 3 months.

5. Contraceptive Patch and Vaginal Ring

• Contraceptive Patch (e.g., Evra): A thin patch worn on the skin, changed weekly for three weeks, followed by a patch-free week. Releases estrogen and progestin. While available in Korea, they are less commonly used than pills or IUDs.
• Vaginal Ring (e.g., NuvaRing): A flexible ring inserted into the vagina that releases hormones. It's typically worn for three weeks, removed for one week, and then replaced with a new ring. Also less commonly used but available.
• Availability: Require a prescription from an OB/GYN clinic.
• Cost: Similar to OCPs for monthly use, plus consultation fees.
• NHIS Coverage: May vary, confirm with your clinic.
• How to get: Consult an OB/GYN for a prescription.

6. Emergency Contraception (Morning-After Pill / Plan B)

• Availability: Requires a doctor's prescription. NOT available over-the-counter.
• Types: Primarily Levonorgestrel (LNG) pills (e.g., Postinor), most effective within 72 hours. Copper IUDs can also be inserted as emergency contraception within 5 days and are the most effective method.
• Cost:
• Consultation: ₩50,000 to ₩100,000 KRW
• Pill: ₩20,000 to ₩50,000 KRW (The pill itself is generally not covered by NHIS).
• How to get: Go to an OB/GYN clinic immediately. If outside clinic hours, go to an ER.

7. Condoms

• Availability: Widely available over-the-counter at pharmacies, convenience stores, and supermarkets.
• Cost: Varies by brand and pack size, generally affordable.
• Protection: Effective for preventing pregnancy and crucial for preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs).



How to Access Contraception in Korea as a Foreigner:

1. Find an OB/GYN Clinic: Focus on clinics in major cities like Seoul, especially in areas with many expats (e.g., Gangnam, Itaewon, Hongdae). Many of these clinics have English-speaking staff or can arrange translation services.

• Recommended clinics in Gangnam area (known for being foreigner-friendly):
• Gangnam LANTE OBGYN
• Sinsoe Women's Health Clinic
• Gangnam Second Spring OBGYN Clinic
• Songpa Goeunbit Women's Clinic (Jamsil, accessible from Gangnam)
• SH Clinic (Sinsa-dong, Gangnam)

1. Schedule a Consultation: It's best to call ahead for an appointment, especially if you require English services. Walk-ins are sometimes possible for basic needs like OCP prescriptions or emergency contraception.
2. Bring ID: Have your passport or Alien Registration Card (ARC) ready, especially if you plan to use your NHIS.
3. Discuss Your Needs: Be open with the doctor about your medical history, lifestyle, and contraceptive preferences. They will help you choose the most suitable method.
4. Understand Costs: Always clarify the total cost upfront, including consultation fees, device costs, and whether NHIS applies to all parts of the service.

Korea offers safe, modern, and diverse contraceptive options, with an increasing focus on patient-centered care, including for its international community.