South Korea has a rich cultural heritage with influences from Confucianism, Buddhism, and Shamanism. Traditional Korean arts such as pottery, calligraphy, and martial arts are highly valued. South Korea is known for its delicious cuisine, including popular dishes like kimchi (fermented cabbage), bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat), bulgogi (marinated grilled beef), and Korean barbecue.
South Korea offers diverse natural landscapes, including mountains, national parks, and coastal areas. Popular outdoor destinations include Seoraksan National Park, Jeju Island, and Nami Island. The country hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating traditions, arts, and cultural events. Some notable festivals include the Jinju Lantern Festival, Boryeong Mud Festival, and Andong Mask Dance Festival.
The healthcare system in South Korea is well-regarded, with modern medical facilities and services available. It is advisable to have travel health insurance that covers medical expenses during your stay.
Hepatitis A virus can cause liver disease, and in rare cases, liver failure and death.
Typhoid is a bacterial infection contracted through contaminated food or water
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that targets the liver and may cause chronic infections.
Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a viral infection spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.
We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the provided information, however, it is not feasible for us to update daily. Please book a virtual consultation with one of our Travel Medicine Professionals for current, personalized advice and answers to any questions you may have.
Guards against the varicella-zoster virus, responsible for chickenpox.
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP)
Protects against three different bacterial infections.
Vaccination against seasonal influenza strains is essential.
Provides immunity against all three diseases in one shot.
Essential for guarding against the poliovirus.
Offers protection against a viral infection that causes painful rashes.
The ongoing pandemic necessitates adherence to vaccination guidelines and preventive measures.
Most common illness for travelers, from consuming contaminated food & water
Some areas of South Korea, particularly in urban centers, may experience high levels of air pollution, especially during certain seasons.
Stay informed about the current COVID-19 situation in South Korea and follow the guidelines and travel advisories issued by health authorities. Adhere to local regulations regarding mask-wearing, social distancing, and any quarantine or testing requirements.
Although the risk of mosquito-borne diseases in South Korea is generally low, it is advisable to protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellents and wearing appropriate clothing, especially if you are visiting rural or forested areas.
Medications such as acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) can be helpful for managing headaches, muscle pain, or fever.
It’s advisable to carry over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (e.g., Imodium) to treat mild cases of traveler’s diarrhea. However, it’s important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if diarrhea persists or worsens.
Antacids like Tums or Pepto-Bismol can provide relief from indigestion or heartburn, which can sometimes occur when trying new foods or experiencing changes in diet during travel.
If you have known allergies, carrying antihistamines like cetirizine(e.g., Reactine) or diphenhydramine (e.g., Benadryl) can help manage allergic reactions to environmental allergens or insect bites.
If you are prone to motion sickness, consider carrying medication like dimenhydrinate (e.g., Gravol) to alleviate symptoms during long journeys or when traveling by car, train, or boat.
It is essential to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing.
Canadian citizens may be seeking cosmetic or other elective surgeries in South Korea.
Before leaving for a medical travel trip:
Street Address: 21 Jeongdong-gil (Jeong-dong), Jung-gu, Seoul (04518), Republic of Korea
Telephone: +82 2 3783 6000
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.Canada.ca/Canada-And-Republic-Korea
Street Address: c/o Dongsung Group, 99 Sinsan-ro, Saha-gu, Busan, Republic of Korea, 49421
Telephone: +82 51 204 5581
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.Canada.ca/Canada-And-Republic-Korea
We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the provided information, however, it is not feasible for us to update daily. Please book a virtual consultation with one of our Travel Medicine Professionals for current, personalized advice and answers to any questions you may have.
An English interpretation service is available.
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CEO and Chief Medical Officer
MD CCFP, FCFP, EM-SEM
Associate Medical Director
MD CCFP-EM CTH®
Medical Operations Manager
RN, BSN