How to Get Health Insurance in Korea for Travel

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If you're planning to travel to Korea, getting health insurance is a must. Korea has a well-regarded healthcare system, but medical costs can add up quickly.

You can purchase travel insurance that includes health coverage from various insurance companies. This type of insurance can be purchased online or through a local insurance agent.

Korea has a mandatory national health insurance system, but as a foreigner, you're not required to participate. However, having health insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection.

Some popular health insurance options for travelers include Korea's National Health Insurance and private travel insurance policies.

Requirements and Eligibility

To get health insurance in Korea for travel, you'll need to meet certain requirements and eligibility criteria.

You must be a foreigner who is temporarily staying in Korea for less than one year.

Additionally, you can apply for health insurance through the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) if you're a foreigner who has been living in Korea for more than 6 months.

Do We Need Travel?

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Travel insurance for South Korea is not mandatory but highly recommended, especially for travelers from the USA.

Having travel medical insurance is crucial to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or delayed luggage, and other unforeseen events during your trip.

You'll want to consider the crowds in Seoul, which has over 25 million residents, making it challenging to navigate the city.

Seoul's density creates a unique urban culture, with Korea being at the forefront of contemporary art, music, dance, and popular culture.

This urban culture is a major draw for travelers, but it's essential to be prepared for the crowds and other challenges that come with visiting a densely populated city like Seoul.

Do I Need?

You should consider buying travel insurance for South Korea, especially if you're a US resident. International travel involves possible health risks.

Seoul remains the largest tourist attraction, but other areas like Seorak-san national park and Jeju Island also offer unique experiences. Vacationing in South Korea can be an unforgettable adventure.

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However, US and international tourists should be aware that their domestic US health insurance plans, including Medicare, offer very little coverage outside the US borders in Asia. This means you'll need to rely on your travel insurance for medical expenses.

International tourists should realize that vacations outside one's country always have some risk. Buying proper travel health insurance can make all the difference in the event of an accident or sickness.

Types of Health Insurance Plans

If you're planning a trip to South Korea, it's essential to consider your health insurance options. There are several types of health insurance plans available, each with its own unique features and benefits.

OneTrip Prime, for example, is a comprehensive plan that covers kids 17 and under for free when they're traveling with a parent or grandparent. This plan also includes all the benefits you need for international travel. OneTrip Basic, on the other hand, is a budget-friendly option that provides up to $10,000 in emergency medical benefits.

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For US students studying in South Korea, some of the best international student health insurance options include GeoBlue Navigator for Student, StudentSecure from WorldTrips, and IMG Patriot Exchange Insurance. These plans offer varying levels of coverage, including medical expenses, maternity care, and emergency evacuation.

Here are some of the key features of these plans:

Remember to carefully review the policy details and compare plans based on your coverage needs, budget, and duration of stay.

Plans

If you're planning a trip to South Korea, you'll want to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.

There are several types of travel insurance plans to choose from, including OneTrip Prime, OneTrip Basic, and AllTrips Premier.

OneTrip Prime offers comprehensive coverage, including benefits for kids 17 and under when traveling with a parent or grandparent, except for Pennsylvania residents.

OneTrip Basic is a budget-friendly option that provides up to $10,000 in emergency medical benefits and up to $10,000 in trip cancellation/interruption benefits.

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AllTrips Premier offers customizable coverage for every trip taken within 365 days, with tiered benefit levels for trip cancellation/interruption.

Group travel insurance plans can also be purchased, offering discounts of up to 10% compared to individual policies.

Here are some key benefits of travel insurance:

Core Meaning

At its core, health insurance plans are designed to provide financial protection against unexpected medical expenses. This is the fundamental purpose of health insurance, and it's what sets it apart from other types of insurance.

HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations) are a type of health insurance plan that focuses on preventive care and managing chronic conditions. They often have a network of healthcare providers that you must use to receive coverage.

With a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plan, you have more flexibility to see any healthcare provider, both in-network and out-of-network. This can be beneficial if you have a preferred doctor or specialist outside of your network.

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The out-of-pocket maximum is a critical aspect of health insurance plans, as it limits the amount you'll pay for medical expenses in a given year. This can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the plan.

Ultimately, the right health insurance plan for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. It's essential to carefully review the details of each plan to ensure you're making an informed decision.

Comparing and Buying Insurance

To get started, complete the travel insurance quote request form by providing details of the traveller and insurance requirements. This will give you a good idea of the cost and benefits of different insurance options.

You can then compare the cost of South Korea insurance for tourists and review the benefits to identify what fits your needs best. For US students, some of the best international student health insurance options include GeoBlue Navigator for Student, StudentSecure from WorldTrips, and IMG Patriot Exchange Insurance.

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Review the travel insurance documents received by email closely for coverage details and relevant contact numbers. The cost for Korean health insurance for US students varies depending on the age of the student and the duration of coverage required.

Here are some factors to consider when comparing insurance options:

  • Age of the student: The older the student, the higher the cost.
  • Duration of stay: The longer the duration of stay, the higher the cost.
  • University requirements: Make sure to check with your university for any specific insurance requirements.

How to Compare and Buy Cheapest Options

To compare and buy the cheapest options, start by completing the travel insurance quote request form with details about the traveler and insurance requirements. This will give you a clear picture of the costs involved.

The cost of South Korea insurance for tourists can vary, but on average, it's between 5% to 8% of the trip cost. For a week-long trip, this translates to $50 to $200.

You can compare the cost of different insurance options by reviewing the benefits and coverage details. This will help you identify what fits your needs best.

It's also essential to consider the duration of coverage needed, as the insurance cost is directly proportional to the length of trip insurance. The older the traveler, the more expensive will be the cost of travel insurance.

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To buy the cheapest option, obtain quotes from different insurance providers and compare prices and coverage options. This will help you make an informed decision and choose the best insurance for your needs.

Here's a quick summary of the key factors to consider:

By considering these factors and comparing quotes from different providers, you can find the cheapest option that meets your needs.

Health Coverage vs Global

If you're planning a trip to South Korea, it's essential to understand the different types of health coverage available. Trip insurance, travel health coverage, and global medical insurance are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences.

Trip insurance typically covers unexpected events like trip cancellations or interruptions, but it may not provide comprehensive medical coverage. On the other hand, travel health coverage focuses on medical expenses, but it might not cover non-medical issues like trip cancellations.

Global medical insurance, however, offers more comprehensive coverage, including medical expenses, trip cancellations, and emergency evacuations. For U.S. students studying in South Korea, some popular global medical insurance options include GeoBlue Navigator for Student, StudentSecure from WorldTrips, and IMG Patriot Exchange Insurance.

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Here's a brief summary of the key differences:

Ultimately, the type of insurance you choose will depend on your specific needs and budget. Be sure to carefully review the policy details and compare different options to ensure you have the right coverage for your trip to South Korea.

Prudent Coverage Choice

Having South Korea travel insurance is a prudent decision to ensure a smooth and worry-free journey. It's essential to consider the diverse experiences and potential risks associated with travel, especially in a country as varied as South Korea.

Medical emergencies can be costly, and in a country like South Korea where healthcare costs can be high for foreigners, having insurance can save you from significant financial burden in case of unexpected medical emergencies.

Travel insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses if you have to cancel or cut short your trip due to illness, natural disasters, or political unrest.

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Lost or stolen belongings can be a significant issue, and travel insurance provides coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and personal belongings.

Emergency evacuation is also a critical aspect of travel insurance, which can cover the cost of emergency evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility in case of a serious medical emergency or a natural disaster.

Travel delays can be frustrating, and travel insurance can compensate you for additional expenses such as accommodation, meals, and transportation if your flight is delayed or canceled.

If you plan to engage in hazardous adventure sports or activities during your trip to South Korea, travel insurance can provide coverage for injuries or accidents related to these activities.

Having travel insurance provides peace of mind knowing that you're financially protected against unforeseen circumstances during your trip.

Here's a breakdown of what's typically covered under South Korea travel insurance:

  • Medical Expenses for Injury or Sickness
  • Emergency Medical and Dental Expenses
  • Inpatient/Outpatient Surgery Charges
  • Sudden Dental Pain and Labs/Diagnostics
  • Prescription Drugs and Medication Costs
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation/Reunion
  • Repatriation of Mortal Remains
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
  • Flight Accident or Common Carrier Accidental Coverage
  • End of Trip Home Country Coverage
  • Trip Cancellation and Travel Interruption Benefits

On average, travel insurance for a US citizen visiting South Korea can range from $50 to $200 for a week-long trip, which is between 5% to 8% of the trip cost.

Understanding Insurance Coverage

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Understanding Insurance Coverage is crucial when planning a trip to Korea, especially for US students. Medical expenses can be high in Korea, and having the right insurance can save you from financial burden in case of unexpected medical emergencies.

Travel insurance typically covers medical expenses, including emergency medical and dental treatment, hospital stays, and medical evacuation. This is especially important for US students studying in Korea, where healthcare costs can be high for foreigners.

If you plan to engage in hazardous adventure sports or activities during your trip to Korea, such as trekking, whitewater rafting, or paragliding, travel insurance can provide coverage for injuries or accidents related to these activities.

Some popular international student health insurance options for US students in Korea include GeoBlue Navigator for Student, StudentSecure from WorldTrips, and IMG Patriot Exchange Insurance. These plans offer varying levels of coverage, including medical expenses, maternity, pre-existing conditions, emergency evacuation, and mental health coverage.

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Here are some key features to look for in a travel health insurance plan:

  • Medical Expenses for Injury or Sickness
  • Emergency Medical and Dental Expenses
  • Inpatient/Outpatient Surgery Charges
  • Sudden Dental Pain and Labs/Diagnostics
  • Prescription Drugs and Medication Costs
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation/Reunion
  • Repatriation of Mortal Remains
  • Affordable Comprehensive or Low-cost Fixed Benefit options
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
  • Flight Accident or Common Carrier Accidental Coverage
  • End of Trip Home Country Coverage
  • Trip Cancellation and Travel Interruption Benefits

The cost of insurance varies depending on the age of the student and the duration of coverage required. It's essential to compare plans based on coverage needs, budget, duration of stay, and university requirements, ensuring to read the policy details carefully.

Claims and Expenses

When traveling to Korea, it's essential to understand the claims and expenses process for health insurance. You can submit claims to the Korean National Health Insurance Corporation (KNHIC) online, by phone, or in person.

Claims can be submitted up to 2 years after the treatment date.

Filing a Claim

Filing a claim can be a straightforward process if you know what to expect. The first step is to submit a scanned copy of the hospital bill and receipts to the insurance company via email, along with a completed claim form.

You'll need to wait for the insurance company to receive the bill before they can reimburse you. The customer gets the money reimbursed from the insurance company after they receive the bill.

If the hospital provider and insurance company agree on direct billing, the doctor's provider can send the bill directly to the insurance company. They can then pay the money directly to the doctor.

Expenses

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Medical expenses can be a significant concern while traveling, but fortunately, they're often covered under your insurance plan.

Covers cost of treatment for sickness or injury during your vacation, so you can focus on recovering without breaking the bank.

Accidents can happen anywhere, and having medical expenses covered gives you peace of mind while exploring new places.

Country-Specific Information

Traveling to South Korea requires some extra planning, especially when it comes to health insurance. Starting in 2025, US travelers will need to apply for an ETIAS, an electronic travel authorization system, which is not a visa but a pre-travel clearance for short stays up to 90 days in South Korea.

Medicare and most US health insurance plans do not provide coverage in South Korea, so it's essential for travelers to buy travel insurance for South Korea. This will ensure they have the necessary medical coverage in case of an emergency.

USA

Traveling from the USA to South Korea? You'll want to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events. Travel insurance for South Korea is not mandatory but is highly recommended, especially for travelers from the USA.

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Healthcare costs can be high in South Korea, and travel insurance ensures that you have medical evacuation if needed and access to good medical assistance and treatment. The regular US health insurance, including Medicare, provides little to no health insurance coverage outside US borders.

Travel insurance usually costs only around 5% of the total trip cost, making it a worthwhile investment for US citizens traveling overseas. It's essential to look for a policy that provides comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency medical treatment and evacuation.

If you plan on engaging in adventure activities in South Korea, confirm that your travel insurance covers all such activities. South Korea's efficient public transportation and warm hospitality ensure a hassle-free and enriching journey, but it's still crucial to have a safety net.

To apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) starting in 2025, US travelers to South Korea will need to apply in advance. Along with ETIAS, it's also important for travelers from the USA to buy travel insurance for South Korea.

GlobeHopper for US Older Adults

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US citizens with Medicare need international travel insurance as Medicare offers limited or no coverage outside the USA.

If you're a US senior citizen visiting Korea, you'll want to consider GlobeHopper Senior, an affordable overseas travel medical insurance option offered by Indianapolis-based International Medical Group (IMG).

The GlobeHopper Senior plan provides coverage of $1 million up to the age of 79 years and $100,000 for travelers more than 80 years old.

You can choose between a GlobeHopper Single-Trip plan for coverage from 5 days to 365 days, or a GlobeHopper Multi-trip plan which covers 12 months with a maximum of 30 days per each overseas trip.

The plan includes $2,500 cover for sudden unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition and $25,000 for emergency medical evacuation.

With GlobeHopper Senior, you'll have peace of mind knowing you're protected in case of unexpected medical emergencies while traveling in Korea.

Travel insurance for Korea is not mandatory but is highly recommended, especially for travelers from the USA.

International travel insurance provides health coverage and financial protection in case of unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost baggage, or travel delays.

Duration and Factors

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When traveling to Korea, it's essential to consider the duration of your trip when getting health insurance. The insurance cost is directly proportional to the length of trip insurance.

A longer trip means higher insurance costs, so it's crucial to plan accordingly. Even a short trip can be expensive if you're not prepared.

For example, if you're staying in Korea for just a week, you'll need to factor in the cost of insurance for that specific time period.

Duration of Coverage Needed

The duration of coverage needed plays a significant role in determining the cost of trip insurance. The longer the duration of your trip, the higher the cost will be.

Travel insurance costs are directly proportional to the length of trip insurance. This means that the longer you're traveling, the more expensive the insurance will be.

A longer trip duration means you'll need more comprehensive coverage to protect yourself against unexpected events. For US citizens traveling to South Korea, this is especially important due to high healthcare costs.

Given that travel insurance usually costs only around 5% of the total trip cost, it's worth considering a longer coverage period to ensure you're fully protected. This small investment can provide significant peace of mind during your travels.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Visa

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When buying a visa, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost. The cost of South Korea visa insurance depends on the age of the traveler, with older travelers facing higher expenses.

The cost of South Korea visa insurance also depends on other factors, but age is a key consideration.

Pre-Existing Conditions and Coverage

Pre-existing medical conditions can be a major concern for travelers, especially when it comes to getting health insurance in Korea. Some travel insurance plans offer coverage for acute onset of a pre-existing condition, while others may exclude them.

Coverage for pre-existing conditions can vary depending on the insurance policy, so it's essential to review the policy details carefully. For example, some plans may cover sudden unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition, such as the GlobeHopper Senior plan, which offers $2,500 cover for this.

US citizens should be aware that Medicare and its supplements provide very little coverage outside US borders, making it crucial to purchase a separate travel health insurance plan.

Medicare for US Seniors

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US senior citizens with Medicare need international travel insurance as Medicare offers limited or no coverage outside the USA.

Traveling overseas involves risks, especially for older travelers.

The costs of medical evacuation and healthcare outside the United States are expensive.

Buying Medicare Supplemental international Travel insurance coverage for older US travelers is strongly recommended.

Which is from USA?

If you're traveling from the USA to South Korea, you'll need to consider your options carefully. There's no single best travel medical insurance plan that works for everyone.

For travelers with pre-existing conditions, you'll be looking at different plans than those without life-threatening conditions. This is because each plan is tailored to meet specific needs.

Our quote comparison tool helps you compare different plans based on price and coverage in an objective manner. It's a great resource to have when making your decision.

If you need more guidance, our licensed agents are here to help you choose the best medical coverage for your trip to South Korea.

Are Pre-Existing Conditions Insured?

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Pre-existing medical conditions can be a major concern for travelers. Coverage for them can vary depending on the insurance policy.

Some travel insurance plans offer coverage for acute onset of a pre-existing condition. This means that if you have a pre-existing condition, you may still be covered if it suddenly gets worse while you're traveling.

It's essential to carefully review the policy details and any exclusions or limitations related to pre-existing conditions. This will give you a clear understanding of what's covered and what's not.

To find the right policy, you can use the comparison facility available on American Visitor Insurance. This will help you quickly and easily compare different policies and find one that suits your needs.

Getting Started and Online Options

You can use online comparison tools to find a travel insurance plan for South Korea that meets your needs and budget.

Look for a plan that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, lost luggage, and other potential issues you might encounter during your trip.

To buy travel insurance for South Korea online, complete the travel insurance quote form by providing traveler details and the insurance requirements.

You can also contact a licensed agent at 877-340-7910 or email for help finding insurance for tourists visiting South Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need health insurance to travel to Korea?

Yes, it's highly recommended to have travel health insurance when visiting South Korea to cover unexpected medical expenses

Can foreigners get healthcare in Korea?

Yes, foreigners can access healthcare in Korea, but they must register with the NHIS after obtaining an Alien Residency Card, which can take up to a month to receive. Registering with NHIS is mandatory for foreigners staying in Korea for more than six months.

Tasha Kautzer

Senior Writer

Tasha Kautzer is a versatile and accomplished writer with a diverse portfolio of articles. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she has successfully covered a wide range of topics, from the lives of notable individuals to the achievements of esteemed institutions. Her work spans the globe, delving into the realms of Norwegian billionaires, the Royal Norwegian Naval Academy, and the experiences of Norwegian emigrants to the United States.

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