HIV Screening Gangnam Seoul

HIV screening is readily available, confidential, and often free or very low-cost in South Korea. The country has a strong commitment to HIV prevention and treatment, and services are accessible to foreigners as well.


Types of HIV Tests Available in Korea

  • Rapid HIV Test (Antibody Test):
  • Method: Usually involves a finger-prick blood sample or an oral fluid sample.
  • Results: Provided quickly, often within 20-30 minutes.

  • Window Period: Detects antibodies, which can take 3-12 weeks (or up to 3 months for a definitive result) to develop after exposure. A reactive rapid test requires a confirmatory test.

  • Blood Test (Antibody/Antigen Combination Test or Fourth-Generation Test):
  • Method: A standard blood draw from a vein.
  • Results: More accurate and can detect the virus earlier than antibody-only tests (as early as 2-6 weeks post-exposure). Results typically take 1-3 business days.
  • PCR Test (Nucleic Acid Test - NAT):
  • Method: Detects the virus's genetic material directly.
  • Results: Can detect HIV infection even earlier (around 7-10 days after exposure) but is more expensive and usually reserved for specific situations (e.g., recent high-risk exposure, confirming a positive antibody test, or for newborns).


Where to Get HIV Screening in Korea for Foreigners (Seoul/Gangnam)

You have several excellent options, ranging from free and anonymous services to private clinics and large hospitals:


  1. Korea Federation for HIV/AIDS Prevention (KHAP):
  • Best for: Free, anonymous, and confidential testing. This is often the top recommendation for foreigners.

  • Services: Provides free and anonymous rapid HIV and some STI screening services. They also offer counseling, education, and support for foreign people living with HIV/AIDS.


  • Locations in Seoul:
  • Itaewon Center: 33, Usadan-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (3rd Floor). Near Itaewon Station.

  • Gireum Center: 209, Dongsomun-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul (1st Floor). Near Gireum Station.

  • Schedule: They have specific testing schedules, usually Tuesday-Saturday, 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM (check their website or contact them for the most up-to-date schedule, as it can change). Reservations are often recommended.
  • Contact: You can reach them via phone (02-927-4322), KakaoTalk (KHAP-1), LINE (KHAP1), or Telegram (@KHAP4322).

  • Results: Rapid HIV test results within 20 minutes. Other STI results (if offered) in 3-4 days via email or phone.

  1. Public Health Centers (보건소 - Bogeonso):
  • Best for: Free and anonymous testing.
  • Availability: Most local public health centers in each district offer free and anonymous HIV testing.

  • Procedure: You typically don't need to show ID for anonymous testing.
  • Example: Guro Public Health Center explicitly states "Free AIDS Testing" available year-round, with anonymous testing in their 3rd Floor Blood Collection Room.

  • Consideration: English support can vary, and specific operating hours for testing may apply.
  1. Specialized Urology Clinics (for men) and OB/GYN Clinics (for women):
  • Best for: Comprehensive STD panel testing, including HIV, with a quick turnaround for results and integrated care if other STIs are detected. These clinics often have good English support.
  • Procedure: You will likely need to provide identification (passport/ARC).
  • Cost: While the HIV test itself might be relatively low cost, there will be a consultation fee and potentially other test fees if you opt for a broader STD panel.


Cost of HIV Screening in Korea

The cost of HIV screening varies significantly depending on where you go:

  • KHAP and Public Health Centers: FREE and anonymous. This is the most cost-effective option.

  • Private Clinics:
  • Standalone HIV Antibody Test: Around ₩30,000 to ₩70,000 KRW (approx. $22 to $52 USD).
  • As part of a full STD panel: The HIV test cost will be integrated into the overall panel fee, which can range from ₩100,000 to ₩400,000 KRW, plus a consultation fee (₩30,000 to ₩100,000 KRW).
  • NHIS Coverage: If you are enrolled in NHIS (and have an Alien Registration Card), HIV testing is generally covered if it's medically indicated (e.g., symptoms, risk factors). You would pay a co-payment, which is very low (e.g., Seoul National University Hospital lists an "AIDS antibody test" for ₩6,180 KRW with NHIS). However, if it's purely for routine screening without medical indication at a private clinic, you might pay the full cash price.
  • University Hospitals (e.g., SNUH): May have specific fees for HIV tests (e.g., ₩6,180 KRW with NHIS as an optional test), plus consultation and hospital fees.


Key Considerations for Foreigners:

  • Confidentiality: HIV testing in Korea, whether anonymous or not, is handled with strict confidentiality. Medical records are protected by law.
  • Window Period: Understand the window period for the test you choose. If you've had a recent exposure, you might need to re-test later for a conclusive result. KHAP recommends waiting at least 3 months after possible exposure for a clear result with antibody tests.
  • Language: For KHAP and Public Health Centers, while some staff may speak English, it's not guaranteed. Private clinics and IHCs at university hospitals are more likely to offer robust English support.
  • Identification: For free anonymous testing at KHAP or public health centers, ID is typically not required. For private clinics and hospitals, bring your passport or Alien Registration Card (ARC) for registration and NHIS benefits.

  • Counseling: Comprehensive testing services often include pre- and post-test counseling, which is important for understanding results and next steps.

  • Treatment in Korea: If diagnosed with HIV in Korea, treatment (Antiretroviral Therapy - ART) is generally comprehensive and well-supported by the healthcare system, with strong NHIS coverage for treatment costs once diagnosed and registered.

Getting tested for HIV is a responsible health decision. Korea provides multiple accessible and confidential avenues for screening.