Feeling sick in a foreign country can be overwhelming — especially when you don’t speak the language well. In Korea, knowing a few key expressions can make a major difference at the hospital or pharmacy.
Whether you're trying to explain a sore throat, book an appointment, or understand test results, learning essential Korean medical phrases can help you stay calm, clear, and confident.
This guide brings together all the critical expressions and practical Korean you’ll need during medical situations.
You’ll also find detailed sections for symptom description, making appointments, pharmacy interactions, and health checkups. Let’s dive into each situation and learn how to manage your health in Korea with the right words.
🤒 1. Describing Symptoms at the Clinic
When you visit a clinic in Korea, being able to describe your symptoms clearly can speed up diagnosis and treatment. Most doctors and nurses appreciate when patients try to explain in Korean, even if it’s just a few words. Learning the right expressions in Korean can help you feel more confident and respected during medical visits.
Start with the basics. If you're not feeling well, say: “몸이 안 좋아요.” (Momi an joayo) – I’m not feeling well. This is a safe and polite phrase to begin any conversation.
Then, add the specific symptom. For example: “기침이 나요.” (Gichimi nayo) – I have a cough. “열이 있어요.” (Yeori isseoyo) – I have a fever. “속이 안 좋아요.” (Sogi an joayo) – I have an upset stomach.
It’s also helpful to mention how long the symptoms have lasted: “이틀째 아파요.” (Iteuljjae apayo) – I’ve been sick for two days. “일주일 정도 됐어요.” (Ilju-il jeongdo dwaesseoyo) – It’s been about a week.
In some cases, doctors may ask about pain intensity. You can say: “많이 아파요.” (Manhi apayo) – It hurts a lot. “조금 아파요.” (Jogeum apayo) – It hurts a little.
For headaches or body aches, these expressions are commonly used: “두통이 있어요.” (Dutongi isseoyo) – I have a headache. “몸살이에요.” (Momsarieyo) – I feel achy all over.
Sometimes, doctors will ask clarifying questions. One useful response is: “네, 계속 그래요.” (Ne, gyesok geuraeyo) – Yes, it’s been like that continuously. “아니요, 가끔 그래요.” (Aniyo, gakkeum geuraeyo) – No, it happens occasionally.
If you're nervous about language, it's okay to show effort. You can also say: “조금 한국어 할 수 있어요.” (Jogeum hangugeo hal su isseoyo) – I can speak a little Korean. This often encourages staff to speak slowly or use gestures.
For more practical expressions and pronunciation tips for explaining symptoms to a doctor, visit this in-depth guide: Speak to Korean Doctors Naturally: Must-Know Phrases for Describing Symptoms at a Clinic
With just a few basic phrases, you can build trust with medical professionals and feel more in control of your health. The key is clarity, even with simple words.
📅 2. Booking a Doctor’s Appointment
In Korea, booking a doctor’s appointment can be a bit different from what you may be used to. Many small clinics don’t require appointments, while hospitals and specialized departments usually do. Understanding the right Korean expressions helps you book smoothly whether it’s your first visit or a follow-up.
Start with: “진료 예약하고 싶어요.” (Jinryo yeyak-hago sipeoyo) – I’d like to make a medical appointment.
The receptionist might ask whether it’s your first visit or a returning one. To explain: “초진이에요.” (Chojin-ieyo) – It’s my first time. “재진이에요.” (Jaejin-ieyo) – It’s a follow-up appointment.
If you want to request a specific date or time, say: “내일 오전에 가능해요?” (Naeil ojeone ganeunghaeyo?) – Is tomorrow morning available? “이번 주 금요일에 예약하고 싶어요.” (Ibeon ju geumyoire yeyak-hago sipeoyo) – I’d like to book for this Friday.
Sometimes, you’ll need to specify the department: “내과 예약하고 싶어요.” (Naegwa yeyak-hago sipeoyo) – I want to book Internal Medicine. “피부과 진료 받고 싶어요.” (Pibugwa jinryo batgo sipeoyo) – I need a Dermatology appointment.
To ask about the doctor: “OO 선생님 진료 가능해요?” (OO seonsaengnim jinryo ganeunghaeyo?) – Can I see Dr. OO? Use this when you have a preferred doctor or need continuity of care.
For hospitals with multiple floors and counters, this question helps: “어디에서 접수해요?” (Eodieseo jeopsuhaeyo?) – Where do I check in?
In case you’re running late or want to cancel, try: “예약 취소하고 싶어요.” (Yeyak chwiso-hago sipeoyo) – I’d like to cancel my appointment. “조금 늦을 것 같아요.” (Jogeum neujeul geot gatayo) – I think I’ll be a bit late.
For a full guide on how to make appointments naturally and politely, check out this article: Book a Doctor’s Appointment in Korean: Phrases and Polite Questions
When you speak clearly and use these expressions, staff will understand that you’re trying to follow local customs. Using even basic Korean at this step can build trust and reduce misunderstandings.
💊 3. Buying Medicine at a Pharmacy
In Korea, over-the-counter (OTC) medicine is usually purchased at a pharmacy (“약국”). Pharmacists often ask questions about your symptoms before recommending a drug, even for minor cases like colds or headaches. Knowing the right Korean phrases can make this process smoother and help you get the correct medication.
To start the conversation, you can say: “약 좀 주세요.” (Yak jom juseyo) – Can I get some medicine, please? This is a polite and simple way to initiate the interaction.
You’ll often be asked what symptoms you have. Useful responses include: “감기 기운이 있어요.” (Gamgi giuni isseoyo) – I feel like I’m catching a cold. “두통이 있어요.” (Dutongi isseoyo) – I have a headache. “배가 아파요.” (Baega apayo) – I have a stomachache.
For digestive issues or allergies, you might say: “소화가 안 돼요.” (Sohwaga an dwaeyo) – I have indigestion. “알레르기 있어요.” (Allereugi isseoyo) – I have allergies.
You can also ask what kind of medicine it is or how to take it: “이거 어떤 약이에요?” (Igeo eotteon yag-ieyo?) – What kind of medicine is this? “어떻게 먹어요?” (Eotteoke meogeoyo?) – How should I take it?
If you're buying for someone else, you can say: “아이가 열이 있어요.” (Aiga yeori isseoyo) – My child has a fever. “친구가 기침해요.” (Chinguga gichimhaeyo) – My friend is coughing.
To clarify drug form or preference: “물약 주세요.” (Mulyak juseyo) – I prefer liquid medicine. “알약 있어요?” (Allyak isseoyo?) – Do you have pills?
Pharmacists may also give instructions like: “식후에 드세요.” (Sikhue deuseyo) – Take it after meals. “하루 세 번 드세요.” (Haru se beon deuseyo) – Take it three times a day.
For more detailed phrases and pronunciation support, check out this full article: Essential Korean Phrases for Buying Medicine at a Pharmacy
Being able to explain your symptoms clearly and understand the pharmacist’s instructions can protect your health and help avoid any dangerous mix-ups.
🩺 4. Understanding Health Checkups and Tests
Health checkups are common in Korea, whether it’s for immigration, company policy, or personal care. Large hospitals and even private clinics often offer packaged tests. Knowing how to talk about medical tests in Korean helps you ask the right questions and feel more confident about the process.
First, at the reception desk, you may be asked about your purpose: “건강검진 받으러 왔어요.” (Geongang geomjin badeureo wasseoyo) – I came for a health checkup.
To confirm which tests you need: “어떤 검사 받아요?” (Eotteon geomsa badayo?) – What tests will I get? “혈액검사 있어요?” (Hyeoraek geomsa isseoyo?) – Is there a blood test?
If you're doing fasting bloodwork, staff might say: “금식하셨어요?” (Geumsik hasyeosseoyo?) – Did you fast? “8시간 이상 금식하셔야 해요.” (Yeodeol sigan isang geumsik hasyeoya haeyo) – You need to fast for more than 8 hours.
You may be asked to go to different departments: “소변 검사실은 저쪽이에요.” (Sobyeon geomsasil-eun jeojjok-ieyo) – The urine test room is that way. “엑스레이 찍으세요.” (Ekseurei jjigeuseyo) – Please take an X-ray.
To express discomfort or ask for help: “긴장돼요.” (Ginjang dwaeyo) – I feel nervous. “좀 천천히 해 주세요.” (Jom cheoncheonhi hae juseyo) – Please go slowly.
After tests, you might hear: “결과는 일주일 후에 나와요.” (Gyeolgwaneun ilju-il hue nawayo) – The results will be ready in a week. “결과 설명해 드릴게요.” (Gyeolgwa seolmyeonghae deurilgeyo) – I’ll explain the results.
If something is unclear, ask politely: “다시 말씀해 주세요.” (Dasi malsseumhae juseyo) – Please say that again. “영어로 설명해 주실 수 있어요?” (Yeongeoro seolmyeonghae jusil su isseoyo?) – Can you explain in English?
To review expressions and learn more medical vocabulary for test day, check this article: Korean for Medical Tests – How to Explain, Understand, and Survive Health Checkups
Understanding what to expect during a medical test and being able to communicate clearly helps reduce anxiety and improve your experience in Korean healthcare.
🗣️ 5. Deep-Dive Practice: Dialogues & Response Patterns
After learning the essential phrases, it’s time to apply them in real conversations. Practicing Korean in the form of short dialogues and response patterns helps you prepare for actual medical situations. Understanding how doctors and patients typically interact in Korean can boost your fluency and confidence.
Let’s begin with a typical doctor–patient conversation at a clinic.
Receptionist: “진료 예약하셨어요?” (Jinryo yeyak hasyeosseoyo?) Patient: “아니요, 초진이에요.” (Aniyo, chojin-ieyo) – No, this is my first visit.
Doctor: “어디가 불편하세요?” (Eodiga bulpyeonhaseyo?) – What seems to be the problem? Patient: “목이 아프고 기침이 나요.” (Mogi apeugo gichimi nayo) – My throat hurts and I have a cough.
Doctor: “열이 있나요?” (Yeori innayo?) – Do you have a fever? Patient: “네, 어젯밤에 열이 났어요.” (Ne, eojetbame yeori natseoyo) – Yes, I had a fever last night.
Doctor: “검사를 해 보겠습니다.” (Geomsareul hae bogesseumnida) – Let’s run some tests. Patient: “네, 알겠습니다.” (Ne, algetseumnida) – Okay, I understand.
Now, let’s organize some of these expressions into a reference chart you can review and memorize more easily.
💬 Common Medical Conversation Patterns
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 어디가 아프세요? | Eodiga apuseyo? | Where does it hurt? |
| 두통이 있어요. | Dutongi isseoyo. | I have a headache. |
| 약 드세요. | Yak deuseyo. | Please take your medicine. |
| 열이 없어요. | Yeori eopseoyo. | I don’t have a fever. |
| 건강검진 받았어요. | Geongang geomjin badasseoyo. | I got a health checkup. |
Reviewing and practicing short dialogues regularly can help you stay calm and respond naturally in real medical environments. Don’t just memorize phrases — train yourself to use them in sequence.
📚 6. Useful Medical Vocabulary Reference
In Korean medical environments, even knowing a few key words can help you navigate forms, signs, and conversations more easily. This vocabulary table focuses on essential words you’ll see or hear in clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies.
📖 Essential Medical Korean Vocabulary
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 진료 | jinryo | medical consultation |
| 예약 | yeyak | appointment |
| 약국 | yakguk | pharmacy |
| 증상 | jeungsang | symptom |
| 건강검진 | geongang geomjin | health checkup |
| 감기 | gamgi | cold |
| 복통 | boktong | stomachache |
| 열 | yeol | fever |
| 기침 | gichim | cough |
| 처방전 | cheobangjeon | prescription |
Whether you're reading hospital signs, talking to a pharmacist, or listening to a doctor, these words are likely to appear. Memorizing key terms will dramatically boost your comprehension and response speed.
❓ 7. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Do I need to make an appointment before going to a clinic in Korea?
A1. Many small clinics accept walk-ins, but hospitals and specialists often require appointments.
Q2. How do I say “I have a fever” in Korean?
A2. “열이 있어요.” (Yeori isseoyo)
Q3. Can I get English-speaking doctors in Korea?
A3. In major cities and big hospitals, yes. But basic Korean is still very helpful.
Q4. What do I say when I need cough medicine?
A4. “기침약 주세요.” (Gichim-yak juseyo) – Please give me cough medicine.
Q5. How do I describe pain level?
A5. Use “많이 아파요” (manhi apayo) for strong pain and “조금 아파요” (jogeum apayo) for mild pain.
Q6. What’s the word for prescription in Korean?
A6. “처방전” (Cheobangjeon)
Q7. Can I buy cold medicine without seeing a doctor?
A7. Yes, OTC medicine for minor symptoms is available at pharmacies.
Q8. What should I bring for a health checkup?
A8. Bring your ID, any relevant documents, and come fasting if blood tests are required.
Q9. What do I say if I feel dizzy?
A9. “어지러워요.” (Eojireowoyo)
Q10. Is insurance required to see a doctor?
A10. No, but without insurance, you must pay full price.
Q11. Can I refuse a certain test?
A11. Yes, you can decline or ask for alternatives.
Q12. How do I say “I have an allergy”?
A12. “알레르기 있어요.” (Allereugi isseoyo)
Q13. What do I say if I need help?
A13. “도와주세요!” (Dowajuseyo!) – Please help me!
Q14. Can I request a female doctor?
A14. Yes, at large hospitals. Ask: “여의사 계세요?” (Yeo-uisa gyeseyo?)
Q15. Is it okay to bring someone with me?
A15. Yes, companions are welcome in most clinics.
Q16. How do I ask for painkillers in Korean?
A16. Say “진통제 주세요.” (Jintongje juseyo) – Please give me painkillers.
Q17. What’s the word for 'emergency room' in Korean?
A17. It’s “응급실” (Eung-geup-sil).
Q18. How do I say “I need to see a specialist”?
A18. “전문의를 만나고 싶어요.” (Jeonmun-ui-reul mannago sipeoyo)
Q19. Can I get my medical records in English?
A19. Some large hospitals offer that upon request. Ask: “영문 진료기록 받을 수 있어요?”
Q20. How do I ask if the medicine causes drowsiness?
A20. “이 약 먹으면 졸려요?” (I yak meogeumyeon jollyeoyo?) – Will this medicine make me sleepy?
Q21. Is it okay to bring over-the-counter medicine from my home country?
A21. Usually yes, in small quantities, but check customs regulations to be safe.
Q22. What does “초진” and “재진” mean?
A22. “초진” (chojin) is first-time visit; “재진” (jaejin) is a follow-up visit.
Q23. Can I use my foreign health insurance in Korea?
A23. Usually no. Korea has its own National Health Insurance. Some travel insurances reimburse you after payment.
Q24. How do I describe vomiting or nausea?
A24. Use “구토했어요” (Gutohaesseoyo) for vomiting, and “메스꺼워요” (Meseukkeowoyo) for nausea.
Q25. What’s the polite way to ask, “Can you speak English?”
A25. “영어 하실 수 있어요?” (Yeongeo hasil su isseoyo?)
Q26. Is it common for Korean doctors to explain a lot?
A26. It depends. Some are brief, others are more detailed. Don’t hesitate to ask follow-up questions.
Q27. How can I say “I feel better” after taking medicine?
A27. “좀 나아졌어요.” (Jom naajeosseoyo)
Q28. Can I request a translator at the hospital?
A28. Some major hospitals offer interpretation services. Ask the front desk.
Q29. What do I say if I have trouble breathing?
A29. “숨 쉬기 힘들어요.” (Sum swigi himdeureoyo)
Q30. Can pharmacists in Korea give medical advice?
A30. Yes, for minor conditions. They will often ask about your symptoms and recommend medicine.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
