Last updated 2023.03.28
Medication
Over-the-counter/supplements
Regarding over-the-counter medications and supplements:
Prescriptions
If you have a prescription that you must take regularly, or if you plan to bring additional medication as a "backup," please confirm in advance that the medication is allowed in Korea. Due to differing definitions of "controlled substances," some medications routinely prescribed in the U.S. may not be legal in Korea. If bringing medications, make sure there is a doctor’s note or accompanying written prescription. For more information, please visit U.S. Embassy Seoul's webpage on Medical Assistance.
Grantees who will utilize their ASPE Health Benefits Plan as primary coverage while abroad are also encouraged to reference the ASPE Benefits Guide for information on prescription coverage and mailing.
Regarding over-the-counter medications and supplements:
- There are pharmacies everywhere, and most common medications are available at affordable prices, including cough/cold remedies and first-aid supplies. However, aspirin and acetaminophen (Tylenol) tend to be expensive – you might consider bringing a bottle of the pain reliever you use most often. Some medications, such as Tylenol and ibuprofen, are fairly common but may differ in dosage from their American counterparts.
- Anti-diarrheal medications, such as Pepto-Bismol, can reduce symptom severity if taken for a short period of time. Please use caution when taking anti-diarrheal medications, though, as the cause of diarrhea in Korea is often bacterial. Bacterial diarrhea may require treatment with an inexpensive antibiotic (ciprofloxacin) prescribed by a doctor. Imodium, another anti-diarrheal for bacterial cases, is not recommended as the bacteria it targets is different from that generally present in Korea.
- While adjusting to the Korean diet, some grantees have benefited from taking multi-vitamin and/or calcium supplements. There are Korean equivalents to most vitamins, but if you are looking for a particular brand, especially an American brand, be aware that the price in Korea will likely be much higher. Some searching may be required to find certain brands/supplements; an online store, such as iHerb, may be one option when purchasing supplements.
- The most common health concern in Korea grantees report pertains to allergens and fine dust that travels through Korea every winter and spring. Air quality varies across the different regions of Korea, and even before the COVID-19 pandemic, many Koreans would wear masks as a preventative measure against poor air quality. Regardless of where you are residing in Korea, please plan for some potential air quality issues, particularly if you have asthma or allergies. Pack any medication (e.g., inhalers, anti-allergens) accordingly.
Prescriptions
If you have a prescription that you must take regularly, or if you plan to bring additional medication as a "backup," please confirm in advance that the medication is allowed in Korea. Due to differing definitions of "controlled substances," some medications routinely prescribed in the U.S. may not be legal in Korea. If bringing medications, make sure there is a doctor’s note or accompanying written prescription. For more information, please visit U.S. Embassy Seoul's webpage on Medical Assistance.
Grantees who will utilize their ASPE Health Benefits Plan as primary coverage while abroad are also encouraged to reference the ASPE Benefits Guide for information on prescription coverage and mailing.