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The HPV Vaccine in Korea: A Guide for Foreign Women

What does the HPV vaccine protect against?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus spread through sexual contact. Some types cause genital warts. Other high-risk types can cause cervical cancer and some other cancers. The HPV vaccine protects against the types included in the vaccine. Gardasil 9 (가다실9) covers nine HPV types, including the types most often linked to cervical cancer and genital warts.

The vaccine prevents new infections. It does not treat an existing HPV infection or remove abnormal cells. Read more about HPV infection.

Is the HPV vaccine free in Korea?

Korea's national immunization program provides free HPV vaccination for children and teens in eligible age groups. The eligible ages, the vaccine brands used, and whether boys are included have changed over time. As of 2026, check the current rules with the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA, hotline 1339) or your local public health center.

Foreign children registered in Korea may be eligible on the same basis as Korean children. Adults outside the program pay the clinic's non-covered price.

Who should consider the vaccine as an adult?

The vaccine is most effective before any exposure to HPV, which is why it is given to young people. Many adults can still benefit, because few people have been infected with all the types in the vaccine. The approved age range depends on local approval. Your doctor will consider your age, sexual history, and previous vaccination before recommending it.

What is the dosing schedule?

   

Age at first dose	Typical number of doses
Younger adolescents (per local rules)	2 doses, spaced several months apart
Older teens and adults	3 doses, commonly at 0, 2, and 6 months

Some countries have moved to fewer doses. Korean practice follows local approval and your doctor's advice. If you miss a dose, you usually do not need to restart. Continue the series.

How much does Gardasil 9 cost in Korea?

At Eunice Women's Clinic, Gardasil 9 costs 240,000 KRW per dose (list last checked 2026-01-01; prices may change; confirm with the clinic). A three-dose series is therefore about 720,000 KRW in vaccine costs. Prices differ between clinics because vaccines for adults are non-covered. See HPV vaccine Gardasil 9.

Can I finish a series I started abroad?

Yes. Bring your vaccination record showing the brand and dates of each dose. If you started with a different brand, the doctor will advise how to complete the series with the vaccine available in Korea. If you plan to leave Korea before the series ends, ask for a written record in English so a doctor in your next country can continue.

What are the side effects?

The HPV vaccine has been studied widely. Common side effects are pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, headache, and mild fever. Some people feel faint right after an injection, so clinics usually ask you to sit and wait for about 15 to 30 minutes. Serious allergic reactions are rare.

Can I get the vaccine if I am pregnant?

HPV vaccination is generally not recommended during pregnancy. If you become pregnant during the series, the remaining doses are usually postponed until after pregnancy. Tell the doctor if you might be pregnant.

Should men get the HPV vaccine?

HPV also affects men and can cause genital warts and some cancers. Many countries recommend vaccination for boys as well as girls. In Korea, adult men can usually be vaccinated at urology, family medicine, or other clinics at their own cost. Vaccinating partners can reduce the spread of HPV, but it does not replace your own vaccination or screening.

Do I still need screening after vaccination?

Yes. The vaccine does not cover every high-risk HPV type, and you may have been exposed before vaccination. Continue regular cervical screening. See cervical cancer screening for foreigners.

Getting vaccinated in English near Seongsu

Dr. Eun Mi-na can review your records and explain the schedule in English. The clinic also offers other adult vaccines, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, MMR, and Tdap. Booking is recommended via Naver Booking, KakaoTalk, or phone. For a quick answer on eligibility, see HPV vaccine for foreigners in Korea.

Frequently asked questions

Can adult foreigners get the HPV vaccine in Korea?

Yes. Adult foreigners can get the HPV vaccine at many clinics by paying the non-covered price. Eunice Women's Clinic offers Gardasil 9 at 240,000 KRW per dose. Prices may change, so confirm with the clinic. The doctor will check whether the vaccine is suitable for you.

Do I need an HPV test before the vaccine?

An HPV test is not usually required before vaccination. The vaccine can still protect against types you have not been exposed to. However, it is a good time to make sure your cervical screening is up to date. Ask the doctor about your screening history.

How long does HPV vaccine protection last?

Studies so far show long-lasting protection, and booster doses are not currently recommended. Research is ongoing. Follow the dosing schedule your doctor recommends, and complete all doses of the series.

Is Gardasil 9 available at every Korean clinic?

Many OB-GYN clinics, family medicine clinics, and some other clinics stock Gardasil 9, but availability and prices vary. Call or message the clinic before your visit to confirm stock, especially if you are completing a series on a set date.

Related pages

•  HPV Vaccine (Gardasil 9)
• HPV vaccine for foreigners
• HPV Infection
• Genital Warts
• Cervical Screening in Korea

This page provides general health information for patients and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Individual results vary. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or other urgent symptoms, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency room. Page updated September 2026.