The Seoul Oriental Medicine Association recently launched an initiative to increase inclusivity. 33 facilities in Seoul have been designated as foreigner-friendly traditional medicine clinics. If you want to try traditional Korean medicine for yourself, try one of the designated facilities on this list!
Traditional medicine relies on things found in nature such as herbs and roots to treat and prevent illness.
Korean traditional medicine is based on medicinal knowledge passed down over thousands of years. It shares many similarities with other East-Asian medical traditions such as those found in China, Japan, and Vietnam. However, Korean traditional medicine has been shaped by culture and the natural environment to have its own unique characteristics.
Although modern science-based evidence is widely available in Korea, it is often accompanied by traditional Korean medicine. When being treated โ small as a cold, to as severe as cancer, it is not uncommon to be prescribed a blend of modern and traditional medicine. However, people do not generally rely on traditional medicine alone to treat severe illnesses in modern Korea.
But still many strongly believe in the power of traditional medicine. The elderly and health-conscious individuals tend to apply Korean traditional medicine principles to their daily lives. According to traditional thought, all food is medicine, and each ingredient in a dish has a specific impact on health. As a result, many Koreans visit traditional doctors for advice on how to eat healthily as part of preventative medical care.
Overall, Korean traditional medicine may be worth trying if you are interested in preventative care, treating minor symptoms, or supplementing other treatments with medical supervision.
Side note: Personally, I have found Korean traditional medicine to be more effective than western medicine in treating menstrual symptoms and seasonal allergies. However, this may not be the case with everyone.
Phil hospital of Korean medicine uses a combination of traditional and modern medical practices to treat chronic illnesses and aid recovery. They specialize in rehabilitation following accidents or surgery, cancer treatment, and alleviating chronic pain.
To learn more about their services Click Here.
This clinic specializes in treating digestive problems and menstrual pain. Although their services are a bit limited, they are one of the most foreigner-friendly clinics on our list. They offer services in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese.
Click Here to visit their website.
Park Seong Il uses a technique called iris genetic constitution. It is a traditional practice used to diagnose diseases. This clinic is recommended for those who are suffering from undiagnosed conditions. They offer limited English services.
Click Here to learn more.
This is a Korean traditional medicine clinic that specializes in treating children. Although their foreign language services are limited, they are foreigner-friendly and accepting of patients from multicultural backgrounds. They have six specialty clinics; eating disorders, obesity, physical, allergies, colds, concentration & stress.
You can visit their website by Clicking Here.
Woobo specializes in treating vitiligo and other diseases that lead to skin discoloration. For those with skin conditions who would like to try Korean traditional medicine, Woobo is a great option. Services are available in English and Chinese.
Click Here to learn more.
If you have a more serious medical condition, please seek help at a hospital. For a list of the top hospitals in Korea with English services, Click Here.
