Current time in Korea is Monday, July 14, 2025 at 11:00:29 PM KST.

Understanding Abortion in Korea: A Guide for Women and Expats

The landscape of abortion in South Korea has undergone significant changes in recent years, shifting from a long-standing criminal ban to a more liberalized approach. This evolution reflects a growing recognition of women's reproductive rights. If you are considering abortion in Korea, understanding the current legal framework, available procedures, and access points is crucial.



Current Legal Status: Decriminalization and Beyond

Effective January 1, 2021, abortion was decriminalized in South Korea. This landmark change came after a 2019 ruling by the Constitutional Court, which deemed the previous criminalization unconstitutional.

What does this mean now?

• No Criminal Punishment: The articles of the Criminal Code that previously criminalized abortion became null and void. This means that women seeking abortions and medical professionals performing them are no longer subject to criminal penalties.
• Absence of New Legislation: While the Constitutional Court mandated that lawmakers revise the abortion laws by the end of 2020, no new legislation was passed by that deadline. As a result, there are currently no explicit gestational limits or other restrictions defined by new law.
• Previous Regulations: While the criminal penalties are gone, it's worth noting that prior to decriminalization, the Mother and Child Health Act permitted abortions only under specific circumstances (e.g., rape, incest, severe health risk to the mother, certain genetic disorders), often with a gestational limit of 24 weeks and a requirement for spousal consent (though rarely enforced). While these specific criminal provisions are now void, some clinics may still operate under the spirit of previous guidelines or professional discretion regarding later-term abortions.

It is essential to consult with a medical professional to understand their specific practices and any internal guidelines they follow, especially concerning gestational limits.

Types of Abortion Procedures Available

Clinics and hospitals in Korea typically offer both medical (medication) and surgical abortion options, depending on the gestational age of the pregnancy and individual health factors.

1. Medical Abortion (Medication Abortion):

• How it works: Involves taking two different medications (typically mifepristone followed by misoprostol) to induce a miscarriage.
• Gestational Limit: Generally available for pregnancies up to 10 weeks' gestation.
• Pros: Non-invasive, avoids surgical intervention, can be done in a more private setting (though typically involves clinic visits for consultation and medication).
• Cons: Can involve significant cramping and bleeding, may take several hours to days, and requires follow-up to confirm completion.
• Availability: While mifepristone (known as the "abortion pill") was not legally approved or widely available for import for a long time, its availability has been increasing in recent years. Clinics that offer medical abortion will guide you through the process.

1. Surgical Abortion (In-Clinic Procedure):

• Types:
• Aspiration (Suction Abortion): Most common method for early pregnancies (generally up to 16 weeks). Uses gentle suction to remove the pregnancy.
• Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): Typically performed for pregnancies beyond 16 weeks. Involves dilating the cervix and using surgical instruments and suction.
• Pros: Quick procedure (often 10-15 minutes for aspiration), high success rate, immediate completion.
• Cons: Invasive, requires anesthesia (local or general), potential for complications (though rare), and a recovery period.
• Availability: Widely available in OB/GYN clinics and hospitals that offer abortion services.

The Process of Getting an Abortion in Korea

1. Initial Consultation:

• Schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN. Many clinics in major cities offer confidential consultations.
• The doctor will confirm the pregnancy (if not already done), determine the gestational age, review your medical history, and discuss your options.
• You will receive counseling regarding the procedure, potential risks, and aftercare. As of August 2021, abortion consultation fees are included in NHIS, making them more affordable (patients pay 30-60% of around ₩30,000).

1. Procedure Discussion:

• Based on your gestational age and health, the doctor will recommend either a medical or surgical procedure. They will explain the steps, what to expect, and recovery.

1. Procedure & Recovery:

• If opting for a surgical procedure, it's often done on the same day as the consultation or soon after. Medical abortion involves taking pills at different times, as instructed by the doctor.
• Post-procedure care and follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure your recovery and confirm the procedure's success.

Cost of Abortion in Korea

Abortion procedures are generally NOT covered by the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). This means you will pay out-of-pocket for the procedure itself, though as mentioned, the initial consultation fee might be partially covered by NHIS.

• Costs vary significantly based on:
• Gestational Age: Later-term abortions are considerably more expensive due to increased complexity.
• Clinic vs. Hospital: Hospital procedures may be more expensive.
• Type of Procedure: Medical abortion might be slightly less expensive than surgical, but this varies.
• Specific Clinic: Prices are set by individual clinics and hospitals.
• Estimated Ranges (without NHIS coverage for the procedure itself, as of July 2025):
• Early Pregnancy (e.g., before 7-10 weeks): ₩600,000 - ₩1,200,000+ KRW (approx. $450 - $900+ USD)
• Later Pregnancy (e.g., 10-16 weeks): ₩1,200,000 - ₩2,500,000+ KRW (approx. $900 - $1,800+ USD)
• Beyond 16 weeks: Costs can be significantly higher and availability may be more limited.

It is crucial to get a detailed, itemized quote from your chosen clinic or hospital during your consultation.

Considerations for Foreigners

• Language Barrier: This can be a major challenge. Seek clinics with English-speaking staff. Major university hospitals often have dedicated "International Health Centers" with multilingual support.
• Confidentiality: Korean medical facilities uphold patient privacy. Your information and procedure will be confidential.
• Emotional Support: Unplanned pregnancies and abortions can be emotionally challenging. While clinics provide medical care, consider reaching out to expat support networks or counseling services if you need emotional support.
• Finding a Clinic: Researching clinics in advance is highly recommended. Look for OB/GYN clinics in major cities (especially Seoul's Gangnam, Itaewon, Hongdae areas) that specifically mention "women's health" or "reproductive health" services and cater to foreigners.excellent OB/GYN departments and international patient services.

Making an Informed Decision

The decision to have an abortion is deeply personal. South Korea's legal shift has made abortion more accessible, but it remains a significant medical procedure that requires thoughtful consideration. By seeking professional medical advice, understanding the available options, and preparing for the financial and practical aspects, you can navigate this process with the best possible care.

The female director personally provides care, listening to each patient's story.

01 - One-on-One Personalized Treatment
02 - Post-Treatment Management Syste

03 - Precise Diagnostic Program

Because we understand women, LANTE OBGYN.