Plan B Gangnam Seoul

"Plan B" is a brand name for an emergency contraceptive pill containing levonorgestrel. In South Korea, emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are strictly by prescription only – you cannot buy them over-the-counter at a pharmacy. This is a crucial point to remember, as it differs from many other countries.

If you need emergency contraception in Korea, here's what you should do:


How to Get Emergency Contraception ("Plan B" type pills) in Korea:

  1. Go to an OB/GYN Clinic (Women's Health Clinic):
  • This is the most common and recommended way to get a prescription.
  • Time is critical: ECPs are most effective the sooner they are taken after unprotected sex. Their effectiveness decreases significantly after 72 hours (3 days), though some types (like Ulipristal Acetate, if available) can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days).
  • Find a clinic: Look for women's health clinics (산부인과 - Sanbuingwa). Many clinics in areas like Gangnam in Seoul are accustomed to foreign patients and offer English-speaking services.
  • Same-day appointments: Many clinics understand the urgency of ECPs and offer same-day consultations or walk-in options for this purpose. Call ahead if possible to confirm availability and English support.
  • Consultation: A doctor will conduct a brief consultation, ask about the timing of unprotected sex, your menstrual cycle, and relevant medical history. They will then provide a prescription.
  1. Visit an Emergency Room (ER) at a General Hospital:
  • If it's outside of regular clinic hours (late night, weekend, public holiday), an emergency room is your next option.
  • They can also provide a prescription for ECPs.
  • Be aware that ER visits typically incur higher fees than clinic visits.
  1. Go to a Pharmacy:
  • Once you have a prescription from a doctor, you can take it to any pharmacy (약국 - yakguk) to purchase the pill. Some clinics even have a pharmacy conveniently located within the same building.



Types of Emergency Contraception You'll Encounter:

The most common type of oral emergency contraception in Korea is:

  • Levonorgestrel (LNG) pill: Often available under brand names like Postinor. This is the equivalent of "Plan B" in many Western countries. It is most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.

While Ulipristal Acetate (UPA) pill (like EllaOne) is available in some countries and effective up to 120 hours (5 days), its availability might be more limited in Korean clinics compared to LNG pills.


Cost of Emergency Contraception in Korea (Approximate Ranges):

The total cost will include the doctor's consultation fee and the price of the pill.

  • Consultation and Prescription: ₩50,000 to ₩100,000 KRW (approx. $37 to $75 USD). This fee can be higher if you go to an ER.
  • 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 if you do not have Korean National Health Insurance.

Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS):

  • If you have NHIS and an Alien Registration Card, the consultation fee will likely be partially covered, meaning you'll pay a reduced 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 of the Essence: The effectiveness of the pill decreases with every hour that passes after unprotected sex. Act as quickly as possible.
  • Not a Regular Birth Control Method: ECPs are for emergencies only and should not be used as a primary method of contraception. Discuss long-term birth control options with your doctor.
  • Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, fatigue, abdominal pain, headache, and changes to your next menstrual period (it might be earlier, later, or heavier/lighter than usual).
  • No STI Protection: ECPs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Follow-up: It's a good idea to take a pregnancy test if your period is delayed by more than a week after taking the pill.

If you are in Korea and need emergency contraception, identify an OB/GYN clinic or hospital ER quickly and explain your situation. They are equipped to help you discreetly and efficiently.