Korean Pharmacy Guide for Tourists | How to Buy Medicine in Korea

Korean Pharmacy Guide for Tourists | How to Buy Medicine in South Korea

If you get sick, catch a cold, have stomach problems, or need pain relief while traveling in Korea, pharmacies are usually the fastest place to get help.

Korean pharmacies (약국) are located throughout cities such as Seoul, Busan, Incheon, and Jeju.

How to Find a Pharmacy in Korea

• Naver Maps
• Kakao Maps
• Google Maps
• Search "약국" (Yakguk)
• Search "Pharmacy Near Me"

Popular Medicines Tourists Buy

• Cold medicine
• Pain relievers
• Digestive medicine
• Motion sickness tablets
• Bandages and first aid supplies
• Allergy medicine
• Vitamins
  

Do Korean Pharmacists Speak English?

Many pharmacies in tourist areas such as Haeundae, Seomyeon, Myeongdong, and Hongdae can provide basic English assistance.

24-Hour Pharmacies

Some pharmacies operate late at night or 24 hours. Search:

• 24 Hour Pharmacy Busan
• 24 Hour Pharmacy Seoul
• Emergency Pharmacy Korea

What You Need to Know

• Bring your passport if needed.
• Prescription drugs require a doctor's prescription.
• Most common medicines can be purchased directly.
• Credit cards are widely accepted.

Final Thoughts

Korean pharmacies are convenient, affordable, and easy for tourists to use. Most everyday health needs can be solved without visiting a hospital.