🇰🇷 Stay Healthy in Korea: Your Doctor-Backed Travel Health Guide
by: Dr. Paul Chang, General Practitioner, Regis Medical
Travel safe and smart in South Korea with trusted vaccine guidance, health advice, and packing tips from the Regis Medical Singapore GP Doctors.
Why Singaporeans Love Korea
From the vibrant streets of Seoul and historical palaces of Gyeongbokgung to scenic Jeju Island and ski resorts of Gangwon-do, South Korea is a top destination for Singaporean travellers.
In 2024, over 390,000 Singaporeans visited South Korea — a clear sign of its growing popularity for K-culture fans, food lovers, and winter holiday seekers.
Whether you're visiting K-pop hotspots, traditional hanok villages, or indulging in endless street food, Korea offers a dynamic blend of culture, convenience, and tech-forward cities.
Best time to go: March–May (spring flowers), September–November (cooler weather & foliage), December–February (ski season)
Popular cities: Seoul, Busan, Jeju, Incheon, Gyeongju
Popular for: Street food, skincare shopping, K-Pop & K-Drama tourism, winter sports, spring cherry blossoms
South Korea is visa-free for Singaporeans, has an excellent public transport system, and is consistently ranked among the safest countries in Asia — perfect for first-timers and seasoned travellers alike.
Vaccines to Consider Before Going to Korea
Recommended Vaccines for Japan:
- Influenza – Highly recommended, especially for winter trips (December–March) when flu season peaks in Korea.
- Hepatitis A – For those planning to enjoy local dishes, street food, or visit smaller towns.
- Hep B – General protection, especially for long trips or those with potential medical interactions.
- Japanese Encephalitis – For extended stays in rural Japan or travel during mosquito season
- Pneumococcal (Prevenar 20) – For seniors (65+) or those with chronic health conditions.
Pre-Travel Health Screening & Advice
Who should screen?
- Elderly
- People with chronic medical conditions
- Immunocompromised individuals
Suggested tests:
- Hepatitis A/B immunity check
- General health review if staying long-term or doing outdoor activities
Pack These: Emergency Medications & Health Kit
For Korea’s winter season and urban-to-rural travel mix:
- Flu medicine or lozenges
- Plaster
- Eye drops and moisturiser lotion (dry air)
- Anti-diarrhoea meds (e.g. loperamide or charcoal pills)
- Motion sickness tablets (especially for bus or island ferry rides)
- UTI Medication
- Antihistamines (for allergies especially during spring flower season)
While You’re There: Protecting Your Health
Tap water is safe to drink in cities like Seoul and Busan
Street food is generally safe, but stick to busy stalls and freshly made items
Koreans wear masks during flu season — a smart habit for tourists too.
Cold weather tips: Layer up, stay hydrated with warm water, and moisturise regularly
After You Return: Post-Travel Watchlist
Be alert for:
- Fever, fatigue, or stomach upset within 7–10 days of return
- If symptoms occur, consult a GP — particularly if you had street food often or you visited rural areas.
At Regis Medical, we offer rapid tests for flu, and gastrointestinal infections at our clinic.
Travel Health Checklist
✅ Vaccines completed
✅ Meds packed
✅ Travel insurance arranged
✅ Emergency contact card in bag
✅ Nearest hospital of your destination bookmarked
Planning a trip to Korea?
Visit Regis Medical for a Pre-Travel Vaccines and Health Consult — personalised for your destination, itinerary, and health needs.
