Abortion in Korea

Abortion in Korea: What Foreigners Should Know


  • Abortion has been decriminalized in South Korea since 2021.
  • There are currently no strict gestational limits for most cases, though abortions related to rape, incest, or fetal abnormalities are typically performed up to 24 weeks.
  • Abortion pills (mifepristone and misoprostol) are not yet legally available or regulated in Korea.
  • National health insurance does not cover abortion; procedures are self-pay.
  • Foreigners—including tourists, international students, and workers—have the same legal access to abortion services. No proof of residency, spousal consent, or immigration reporting is required.


What to Expect as a Foreign Patient

  • Most clinics require a pregnancy confirmation via urine or blood test, often with an ultrasound.
  • English-speaking staff or interpreters are available at many clinics in major cities.
  • Counseling and follow-up care are usually offered.
  • Surgical procedures like vacuum aspiration or curettage are the most common, as abortion medications are not yet approved.


Foreigner-Friendly Abortion Clinics in Seoul

  1. Gangnam Second Spring OBGYN Clinic
    Known for fast scheduling, discreet care, and English-speaking support.         www.seoulobgyn.com
  2. LANTE OBGYN Gangnam
    Offers private consultations, compassionate care, and multilingual services.         www.gangnamongyn.com
  3. Yoonho OBGYN Clinic, Gangnam
    Provides surgical abortion procedures with experienced staff and a focus on confidentiality.         www.seoulobgynforforeigners.com
  4. Sinsoe Women’s Clinic (Gangnam)
    Offers general gynecology and limited abortion services with English consultation.         www.gangnamwomenshealth.com
  5. Trinity Womens Clinic(Sinsa) www.seoulgynecology.com
  6. YQUEEN Womens Clinic(Apgujeong) www.obgynseoul.com


Quick Summary

TopicKey InfoLegalityLegal since 2021Gestational limitFlexible; up to 24 weeks in some casesForeignersFull access; no special requirementsAbortion medsNot legally availableInsuranceNot coveredProceduresSurgical, usually early-termLanguagesMany clinics offer English-speaking support


✅ Action Steps

  1. Confirm pregnancy with a test and ultrasound.
  2. Contact a clinic to ask about procedure details, pricing, and availability.
  3. Book an appointment—same-day procedures are often possible.
  4. Arrange for follow-up care if needed.
  5. Ask about privacy and language assistance during your visit.



Contact Us