Morning-After Pill in Seoul for Foreigners
Needed emergency contraception while living in or visiting Seoul? In Korea the morning-after pill is dispensed with a doctor's prescription, so the fastest route is a short visit to a gynecology clinic, followed by a pharmacy.
Visit a gynecology clinic as soon as possible after unprotected sex, get a prescription, and collect the pill at a nearby pharmacy. The earlier it is taken, the better it works. At Yoonho Hospital in Apgujeong, foreigners can walk in during opening hours and consult in English.
Do You Need a Prescription in Korea?
Unlike some countries where emergency contraception is sold over the counter, in Korea it is currently dispensed with a prescription. A pharmacy will ask for the doctor's prescription before giving you the pill.
The consultation itself is short. The doctor checks the timing of the unprotected intercourse, your last menstrual period, any medications you take and whether there is a chance you are already pregnant.
How Soon Should You Take It?
Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as early as possible. The common options differ in how long after intercourse they can be used:
| Option | Typical time window | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Levonorgestrel pill | Up to 72 hours | Works best within the first 24 hours |
| Ulipristal acetate pill | Up to 120 hours (5 days) | Your doctor will advise if it suits you |
| Copper IUD | Up to 5 days | Also provides ongoing contraception |
What Happens at the Clinic
- Arrive at the clinic with your passport or alien registration card (ARC).
- Fill in a short registration form; staff can help in English.
- Brief consultation with the gynecologist about timing and health history.
- Receive a prescription and pick up the pill at a nearby pharmacy.
- Take the pill as instructed and note the date for follow-up.
Side Effects and Follow-Up
Most people have no serious side effects. Some notice nausea, mild abdominal cramps, breast tenderness, headache or spotting. Your next period may come a few days earlier or later than usual.
- If you vomit within a few hours of taking the pill, contact the clinic — a repeat dose may be needed.
- If your period is more than 7 days late, take a pregnancy test.
- Consider STD testing if the exposure involved a new or unknown partner.
- Ask about regular contraception such as the pill or an IUD to avoid repeat emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy the morning-after pill directly at a Korean pharmacy?
Generally no. Korean pharmacies dispense emergency contraception with a doctor's prescription, so you will need a short clinic visit first.
Do I need an appointment?
Walk-ins are welcome at Yoonho Hospital during opening hours. Sending a WhatsApp or KakaoTalk message before you come can shorten waiting time.
Is the consultation confidential?
Yes. Your visit and medical information are handled confidentially under Korean medical privacy law.
Talk to an English-speaking gynecologist
Yoonho Hospital, Apgujeong, Gangnam · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.
Related Guides & Treatments
This guide is for general information and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Rules on medicines and insurance in Korea can change; please confirm details with the clinic.