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Enroll in Health Insurance in Korea

Korea's National Health Insurance (NHIS / 국민건강보험) is mandatory for most foreigners staying 6+ months. Excellent coverage at affordable rates.

Easy30 minutes to 1 hour

📋 What You Need

  • ARC
  • Bank account for payment
  • Documents proving residence or employment

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Understand your enrollment type

Employee-insured (직장가입자): automatic enrollment through employer. Community-insured (지역가입자): enroll manually at NHIS office.

2

Enroll if not through employer

Visit local NHIS office or apply online at nhis.or.kr (English available).

3

Set up automatic monthly payment

Average premium: ₩130,000–₩180,000/month for community insured. Employees split cost with employer 50/50.

💡 Insider Tips

  • NHIS covers 50–80% of most medical costs
  • Students on D-4 or D-2 visas must also enroll
  • Dental and vision have limited coverage under basic NHIS
  • Private supplemental insurance (실손보험) recommended for full coverage — costs ~₩30,000–50,000/month
  • Emergency room visits covered at ~50–60%
  • NHIS English hotline: 1577-1000