In brief
In 2025, health check-up centres accounted for 3.1% of speciality visits by international patients.
65,228 international patients in 2025. Source: Korea Health Industry Development Institute.
Many Korean hospitals run dedicated check-up centres that complete blood tests, imaging and endoscopy in a single day. Packages vary a great deal, so compare what is actually included rather than the name on the package.
A check-up is of use only if you can act on its results. Make certain that you will receive a report in a language you understand, and a consultation to explain it.
What is offered
- Blood and urine tests
- Gastroscopy and colonoscopy (often with sedation)
- Ultrasound
- CT and MRI
- Cardiac tests
- Cancer screening for specific organs
How matters are arranged in Korea
- Each hospital sets its own package prices. Establish which tests are included and which are optional additions.
- Endoscopy usually requires fasting and a bowel preparation the day before. Ask for the instructions in advance.
- Ask whether results are explained on the day or sent afterwards, and in which language.
Official fees in Seoul
The non-covered fees that hospitals and clinics in Seoul report to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service. Ask for a written quotation all the same: it is the fee you will actually be charged.
-
MRI of the brain, without contrast뇌 / 일반
₩504,000median
Lowest ₩250,000Highest ₩1,045,000
-
Carotid artery Doppler ultrasound혈관-두개외 혈관 도플러 초음파 / 경동맥
₩170,000median
Lowest ₩30,000Highest ₩464,000
Planning your stay
- Most packages take from one morning to a full day; preparation for colonoscopy begins the day before.
- Should a test find something abnormal, you may need extra days for further tests. Leave room in your schedule.
The risks, plainly stated
- Sedation and endoscopy carry small risks, including reactions and, rarely, perforation.
- Exposure to radiation from repeated CT scans.
- Incidental findings that require follow-up at home.
Every procedure carries risk. Only the treating doctor, having examined you, can say whether a treatment is suitable.
Questions to put to the clinic
To take with you
- Precisely which tests are included?
- Will a doctor explain my results, and will I receive a report in English?
- What happens if a result calls for further tests?
For a few words of Korean at the reception desk, Day1Korean has short conversations to listen to and repeat.
Who ought to treat you
Check-up centres are usually part of a hospital. Ask which specialists will read your imaging and endoscopy.
Before you book, use our safety checklist to confirm the clinic’s government registration and the doctor’s licence.
Sources
- Korea Health Industry Development Institute — 2025 International Patient Statistics Report (외국인환자 유치실적 통계분석 보고서)
- HIRA Non-covered Medical Fee Information — public data portal
- Medical Service Act (Korean Law Information Center)
- Medical Korea (KHIDI) — registered foreign-patient institutions and support
Last reviewed on 25 October 2026. See our editorial policy.