Morning After Pills Gangnam Seoul

If you're in Korea and need the morning-after pill (emergency contraception), it's important to act quickly as its effectiveness decreases with time. Here's what you need to know:



Is the Morning-After Pill Available Over-the-Counter in Korea?

No, the morning-after pill is NOT available over-the-counter in South Korea. You must get a prescription from a licensed doctor. This is a key difference compared to many Western countries where it can be purchased directly from pharmacies.


How to Get a Prescription for the Morning-After Pill in Korea for Foreigners:

The easiest and most common way to get a prescription is by visiting a women's health clinic (OB/GYN clinic).

  1. Find an OB/GYN Clinic: Look for women's health clinics, especially in areas with a significant expat population like Gangnam in Seoul. Many of these clinics are accustomed to international patients and have English-speaking staff or offer translation services.
  • Prioritize Speed: Since time is critical, look for clinics that advertise "same-day appointments" or "walk-in" availability for emergency contraception. Many clinics understand the urgency.


  1. Consultation with a Doctor:
  • You will have a private consultation with a gynecologist.
  • The doctor will ask about the timing of unprotected sex, your menstrual cycle, and any relevant medical history or medications.
  • They will explain how the emergency contraceptive pill works and discuss potential side effects.
  1. Get Your Prescription:
  • After the consultation, the doctor will provide you with a prescription.
  • You can then take this prescription to any pharmacy to get the pill. Some clinics may have a pharmacy located within the same building or nearby.
  1. Consider Emergency Room (ER) if necessary:
  • If it's late at night, a weekend, or a public holiday and OB/GYN clinics are closed, you can visit an Emergency Department (ER) at a general hospital. They can also provide a prescription. This option might be more expensive due to ER fees.


Types of Emergency Contraception Available in Korea:

  • Levonorgestrel (LNG) Pill (e.g., Postinor):
  • Most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.
  • Works primarily by preventing or delaying ovulation.
  • Effectiveness decreases with time, so ideally, take it within 24 hours.
  • Ulipristal Acetate (UPA) Pill (e.g., EllaOne - availability may be limited compared to LNG in Korea):
  • Can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.
  • May be more effective closer to ovulation and in women with higher body weight.
  • Also requires a prescription.
  • Copper IUD (Intrauterine Device):
  • Can be inserted by a doctor within 5 days of unprotected sex.
  • It is the most effective form of emergency contraception (over 99% effective).
  • It also provides highly effective long-term contraception (up to 10 years). This requires an in-clinic procedure for insertion.


Cost of the Morning-After Pill in Korea (Approximate Ranges as of July 2025):

The cost typically involves two parts: the doctor's consultation fee and the pill's cost.

  • Consultation and Prescription: ₩50,000 to ₩100,000 KRW (approx. $37 to $75 USD)
  • Emergency Pill (Levonorgestrel): ₩20,000 to ₩50,000 KRW (approx. $15 to $37 USD)
  • Total Out-of-Pocket (without NHIS): Expect to pay roughly ₩70,000 to ₩150,000 KRW for the consultation and the pill.
  • Copper IUD (if used as EC): This is a more significant cost as it includes the device and insertion, typically ranging from ₩200,000 to ₩400,000 KRW (approx. $150 to $300 USD).

Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS):

  • If you have NHIS (and a valid Alien Registration Card), the consultation fee will be partially covered, and you'll pay a co-pay. However, the emergency contraceptive pill itself is generally NOT covered by NHIS, so you will pay the full price for the medication at the pharmacy.


Important Considerations:

  • Time is Crucial: The sooner you take the morning-after pill, the more effective it is. Do not delay seeking medical attention.
  • Not Regular Contraception: Emergency contraception is not meant to be a regular form of birth control. It should only be used in emergency situations.
  • Side Effects: Mild side effects may include nausea, fatigue, abdominal pain, or changes in your next menstrual cycle (it might be earlier, later, or heavier/lighter than usual).
  • Follow-Up: It's recommended to take a pregnancy test if your period is delayed by more than a week after taking the pill. Your clinic may also offer counseling on long-term birth control options.
  • Confidentiality: Korean clinics generally provide discreet and confidential services.

If you find yourself in need of the morning-after pill in Korea, don't hesitate to contact a women's health clinic immediately.