How to Use a Pharmacy in Korea: A Guide for Foreign Travelers

Getting a headache, cold or stomach problem while traveling can be frustrating — especially when you do not speak Korean.

Fortunately, pharmacies are common throughout Korea, and many everyday health problems can be handled with the help of a pharmacist.

Here is what foreign travelers should know.

How Do You Find a Pharmacy in Korea?

The Korean word for pharmacy is:

약국 — Yakguk

Look for a sign saying 약국 or a pharmacy symbol.

Pharmacies are commonly found near hospitals, clinics, subway stations and busy commercial areas.

Opening hours vary, and many pharmacies close at night or operate shorter hours on Sundays and public holidays.

Can You Buy Medicine Without a Prescription?

Some medicines can be purchased directly from a pharmacy without a prescription, while prescription medicines require a doctor's prescription.

For common problems such as a mild headache, cold symptoms or indigestion, explain your symptoms to the pharmacist and ask what non-prescription options are available.

Do not assume that a medicine sold over the counter in your home country is available in exactly the same way in Korea.

What About Convenience Stores?

A limited range of designated over-the-counter medicines is available at registered convenience stores, but the selection is much smaller than at a pharmacy.

These may include limited products for common symptoms such as fever, pain or indigestion.

However, a convenience store is not a substitute for a pharmacy.

If you are unsure which medicine is appropriate, have ongoing symptoms, take other medications or have allergies, speaking with a pharmacist or doctor is safer.

Useful Korean Phrases

You do not need to explain everything in Korean. Translation apps can help, but a few simple phrases are useful.

약국 어디예요?

Yakguk eodiyeyo?
“Where is a pharmacy?”

감기약 주세요.

Gamgiyak juseyo.
“Cold medicine, please.”

머리가 아파요.

Meoriga apayo.
“My head hurts.”

배가 아파요.

Baega apayo.
“My stomach hurts.”

When asking about medicine, also tell the pharmacist about allergies, pregnancy, existing medical conditions or other medicines you take when relevant.

What If the Pharmacy Is Closed?

If you need medicine late at night or during a holiday, search for a nearby pharmacy that is currently open rather than assuming the nearest one operates 24 hours.

Korea's E-Gen emergency medical information service provides information about hospitals and pharmacies, including facilities operating during nights and holidays.

If you need a pharmacy at night or during a holiday, use Korea's E-Gen emergency medical information service to search for nearby pharmacies and medical facilities.

When Should You See a Doctor Instead?

A pharmacy is useful for minor problems, but some situations require medical care.

Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening or persistent.

For a medical emergency, call:

119

Korea's 119 service handles emergency medical assistance and ambulance dispatch.

Do not delay emergency care because of concerns about language or unfamiliarity with the Korean healthcare system.

A Smart Travel Tip

Before traveling to Korea, keep a list of:

Medicines you currently take
Generic names of important medications
Drug allergies
Major medical conditions

Using the generic drug name rather than only a foreign brand name can make communication easier.

A photo of your medication package can also be useful.

Final Thoughts

Using a pharmacy in Korea is usually straightforward.

Remember three things:

Look for 약국 → explain your symptoms → ask the pharmacist before choosing unfamiliar medicine.

For minor problems, a nearby pharmacy may be all you need.

For serious symptoms or emergencies, seek medical care instead.

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