Gyeonggi-do has established to support a 24-hour Medical Centers for Foreigners to support foreigners. These centers provide services for foreigners, and have emergency rooms open all night with staff that are fluent in foreign languages.

Six provincial medical centers are subsidized by the central government to help migrant workers. These institutions provide free medical care for foreigners and cover the expense of hospital stays as well as surgery costs (up to KRW 5 million). Making use of the national volunteer association is another way to save on medical expenses. Individuals are covered for basic treatment, surgery and emergency treatment up to KRW 5 million. Clinics are located in the cities of Anyang, Ansan, and Siheung, and mobile medical services are also offered.

A program is in place for foreign migrant workers who do not have health insurance. Migrant workers can pay monthly charges and receive benefits similar to those of health insurance. Migrant workers who would like to subscribe to this service have to pay an initial fee of KRW 5,000, along with the first monthly charge of KRW 6,000. Also bring two photos of you and a copy of your passport. Apply at the nearest Migrant Worker’s Counsel Office. The program lets you pay only 30-40 % of the cost of treatment at private clinics, and you can expect a 40-50 % discount for treatment at general hospitals. However, the medical assistance program for foreign workers is only available at designated hospitals. Please inquire in advance to make sure that you can get the discount.

For more information, please contact the Medical Mutual-Aid Union for Migrant Workers in Korea
(Tel : +82-2-3147-0516, URL : http://www.wefriends.org/sub/page.php?bo_table=eng10 )