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Women's Health Checkups in Korea: National Screening and Optional Tests
Quick answer: In Korea, women's health checkups combine the NHIS national screening program, which includes general checkups and cancer screening for eligible members, with optional tests you choose and pay for, such as breast, thyroid, or pelvic ultrasound. Eunice Women's Clinic near Seongsu Station offers women's checkups, including cervical screening and ultrasounds, with an English-speaking female OB-GYN.
What is included in Korea's national health screening?
Korea's National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) runs a national screening program for eligible members, including many foreign residents. As of 2026, the program generally includes:
- General health checkup: usually every two years (yearly for some workers). It covers measurements such as blood pressure, weight, basic blood tests, and a chest X-ray, with additional items at certain ages.
- Cervical cancer screening: every two years from age 20.
- Breast cancer screening: mammography every two years from age 40.
- Other cancer screenings: such as stomach, colorectal, and liver cancer screening for certain ages or risk groups.
Eligibility usually depends on your birth year and enrollment status. NHIS sends notices, and you can check your eligibility with NHIS. Screening items and ages can change, so confirm the current rules. See our NHIS guide.
What does the national program not include?
The national program focuses on common, evidence-based screening. It usually does not include routine breast ultrasound, thyroid ultrasound, pelvic ultrasound, HPV testing, or ovarian tests. Many women in Korea add these as optional, self-paid tests. Whether you need them depends on your age, symptoms, family history, and personal preference.
What optional tests do women often add?
| Test | Why it is chosen | Posted price at Eunice (KRW)* |
|---|---|---|
| Breast ultrasound | Often added for dense breast tissue, which is common in Asian women, or for younger women | 90,000 |
| Thyroid ultrasound | Checks for thyroid nodules | 50,000 |
| Gynecologic (pelvic) ultrasound | Checks the uterus and ovaries for fibroids or cysts | 70,000 |
| Liquid-based Pap (LBC) | Cervical screening with a clearer sample | 40,000 |
| ROMA | Blood test that estimates ovarian cancer risk when a pelvic mass is present | 60,000 |
| AMH | Estimates ovarian reserve, for fertility planning | 60,000 |
| Vitamin D | Checks vitamin D level | 20,000 |
| Hepatitis and rubella antibodies | Checks immunity before pregnancy or travel | 20,000 each |
*Non-covered prices, list last checked 2026-01-01. Prices may change; confirm with the clinic. Many ultrasounds and tests are covered by NHIS when medically indicated. See the full fee list.
Where can I get a checkup?
- Designated screening clinics and hospitals: for the NHIS national program. Ask when you book whether the clinic is a registered center for the screening you need.
- Private health screening centers (건강검진센터): offer large packages, often including endoscopy and CT, in one day.
- OB-GYN clinics: focus on gynecologic, breast, and thyroid checks. Useful if you want a doctor to explain results in person.
How do I choose the right tests?
More tests are not always better. Extra tests can find harmless findings that lead to more tests and worry. A doctor can help you choose based on:
- Your age and screening history in your home country
- Family history of breast, ovarian, or other cancers
- Symptoms such as breast lumps, pelvic pain, or irregular bleeding
- Plans for pregnancy
If you have symptoms, do not wait for a scheduled checkup. Book a consultation instead.
How should I prepare?
- Schedule a Pap test outside your period.
- For breast ultrasound, many doctors prefer the week after your period, when breasts are less tender.
- Bring previous results, especially earlier ultrasound reports, so changes can be compared.
- Ask whether fasting is needed for any blood test.
- Wear a two-piece outfit so you can change easily.
Can I get a checkup in English near Seongsu?
Yes. At Eunice Women's Clinic, Dr. Eun Mi-na, a member of the Korean Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Korean Society of Menopause, performs checkups and explains results in English. The clinic offers cervical cancer screening, menopause checks, and breast and thyroid ultrasound. It is a 1-minute walk from Seongsu Station Exit 3 and opens on Saturday mornings. See women's health checkup, breast ultrasound, and thyroid ultrasound.
What happens after the checkup?
Ultrasound findings are often explained on the same day. Lab results take several days. If something needs follow-up, the doctor will suggest a repeat test, further tests, or a referral to a hospital. Keep copies of your reports; you can request record copies or an imaging CD if needed.
Book an appointment in English
Eunice Women's Clinic · 8F Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul · Seongsu Station (Line 2) Exit 3
Phone: +82-2-467-3100 · KakaoTalk channel · Naver Booking
Mon, Wed, Fri 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Thu 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–14:00 · Lunch 13:30–14:30 · Closed Sundays & public holidays
Frequently asked questions
Do foreigners get free health checkups in Korea?
Foreign residents enrolled in NHIS are generally eligible for the national health screening program on the same basis as Korean members, based on age and birth year. Visitors without NHIS are not eligible and pay for any checkup themselves. Confirm your eligibility with NHIS.
Is breast ultrasound part of the national screening?
The national breast cancer screening uses mammography, generally every two years from age 40. Breast ultrasound is usually an optional, self-paid test unless it is ordered for a medical reason. At Eunice Women's Clinic, breast ultrasound costs 90,000 KRW when not covered. Prices may change.
How often should I have a gynecologic checkup?
Many women have a gynecologic checkup about once a year, even though national cervical screening is every two years. The right interval depends on your age, history, and symptoms. Ask the doctor to suggest a schedule that suits you.
What is the ROMA test?
ROMA is a blood test that combines two markers, CA-125 and HE4, with menopausal status to estimate the risk that a pelvic mass is ovarian cancer. It is not a general screening test for all women. A doctor will explain when it is useful.
Can I get my checkup results in English?
Korean reports usually show test names in English letters, with explanations in Korean. At Eunice Women's Clinic, Dr. Eun explains results in English, and you can request an English medical certificate for 20,000 KRW if you need a written summary. Prices may change.
Related pages
- Women's Health Checkup
- Breast Ultrasound
- Thyroid Ultrasound
- ROMA Test
- Understanding Lab Results
- 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.
