Last updated: 3/27/2025

Chemotherapy in Republic of Korea: Our Best Clinics and Costs 2025

Why do patients choose the Republic of Korea for chemotherapy?

  • Accredited clinics: JCI-certified hospitals provide top-quality care and adhere to international standards.
  • Latest technologies: Techniques such as neoadjuvant chemotherapy with Paclitaxel/Carboplatin and palliative chemotherapy with Pemetrexed/Carboplatin are available. These offer targeted treatment options for various cancer types.
  • High success rates: The efficacy of chemotherapy can reach up to 70% in early-stage cancers. This ensures effective management and improved patient outcomes.
  • Expert oncologists: Leading oncologists, certified in hematologic oncology, bring extensive experience in handling complex cases. They perform numerous chemotherapy procedures annually, providing personalized treatment plans.

Access advanced Chemotherapy solutions in trusted clinics .

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How Much Does Chemotherapy Cost in Republic of Korea?

The average price of Chemotherapy in Republic of Korea is $1,752, the minimum price is $1,060, and the maximum price is $3,200.
The price research is based on updated and verified costs from the Bookimed partner clinics.

Your Benefits and Guarantees with Bookimed

Transparent Prices & Flexible Installments

No hidden fees – just official clinic prices. Pay at the clinic for Chemotherapy upon arrival and use a flexible installment plan if needed.

Verified Clinics & Doctors Only

Bookimed is committed to your safety. We only work with medical institutions that maintain high international standards in Chemotherapy and have the necessary licenses to serve international patients worldwide.

Free 24/7 Assistance

Bookimed offers free expert assistance. A personal medical coordinator supports you before, during, and after your treatment, solving any issues. You're never alone on your Chemotherapy journey.

Why we?

Your personal Bookimed medical coordinator

  • Supports you at every stage
  • Helps choose the right clinic and doctor
  • Ensures quick and convenient access to information

Discover the Best Chemotherapy Clinics in Republic of Korea: 10 Verified Options and Prices

The Bookimed clinic ranking is based on data science algorithms, providing a trusted, transparent, and objective comparison. It takes into account patient demand, review scores (both positive and negative), the frequency of updates to treatment options and prices, response speed, and clinic certifications.
Severance Hospital
Samsung Medical Center
Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH)
Asan Medical Center
Gachon University Gil Medical Center

Chemotherapy in Republic of Korea: Your Travel Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Republic of Korea
  • Upon arrival, you should ensure you have all necessary documents, including medical records and previous test results.
  • Contact the clinic to confirm your appointment. Inquire about transportation options to your accommodation.
  • Rest and acclimate to the time zone change to prepare for upcoming medical procedures.
Day 2: Initial Consultation and Diagnostic Tests
  • Attend your initial consultation with the oncology team. They will review your medical history and discuss the chemotherapy plan.
  • Undergo necessary diagnostic tests, such as PET-CT, MRI, and CT scans of the abdomen and chest. These tests assess the current state of the cancer and tailor the chemotherapy treatment to your needs.
  • Blood tests and possibly a biopsy may be conducted to gather comprehensive data about your condition.
  • Discuss potential side effects of chemotherapy. Ask questions about the treatment process.
Day 3-4: Rest and Await Test Results
  • Take these days to rest and recover from any discomfort caused by the diagnostic tests.
  • Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your body’s recovery and prepare for chemotherapy.
  • Keep in touch with the clinic to receive updates on your test results. Confirm the start date for chemotherapy.
Day 5: Begin Chemotherapy Treatment
  • Check into the hospital for the first cycle of chemotherapy, which typically lasts 2-3 days.
  • The chemotherapy regimen may include palliative chemotherapy or targeted therapy, depending on your diagnosis and treatment plan.
  • Follow all pre-treatment instructions provided by the medical team, such as fasting or medication adjustments.
  • During treatment, stay informed about the medications being administered and their potential side effects.
Day 6-7: Post-Chemotherapy Monitoring
  • Remain in the hospital for monitoring to manage any immediate side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea or fatigue.
  • Engage in light activities as recommended by your healthcare provider to promote circulation and recovery.
  • Discuss with your medical team any symptoms you experience, no matter how minor they may seem.
Day 8: Discharge and Follow-Up Planning
  • Upon discharge, you will receive a detailed follow-up plan, including dates for the next chemotherapy cycle and any additional tests required.
  • Ensure you have contact information for the clinic in case of emergencies or questions during your stay.
  • Discuss dietary and lifestyle modifications to support your immune sy and overall health during treatment.
Day 9-21: Rest and Recovery
  • Utilize this period to rest and allow your body to recover from the chemotherapy cycle.
  • Maintain a healthy diet rich in nutrients to aid in recovery and prepare for the next cycle of treatment.
  • Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments or tests to monitor your progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
  • Stay in communication with your healthcare team to report any side effects or concerns.
Subsequent Cycles: Repeat Chemotherapy and Monitoring
  • Repeat the chemotherapy cycle every 3 weeks, as planned. Each cycle requires a 2-3 day hospital stay.
  • Continue to monitor your health and adhere to follow-up appointments to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
  • Adjust your treatment plan based on the results of ongoing tests and consultations with your medical team.
Final Days: Preparing for Departure

Our Doctors

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Cho Byung Chul

Head of Oncology and specialist in chemotherapy, experienced in treating lung, head and neck, and esophageal cancers with new clinical drugs.

Reviews about Bookimed: Discover Patients' Insights

All reviews
Anonymous • Chemotherapy
Kazakhstan
Aug 12, 2019
Verified review.
I am very pleased with the results
It was good, hospital was big but we could find help there and everything was okey
Ayana Drugina • Liver cancer
Russian Federation
Oct 28, 2019
Verified review.
The clinic is completely low level of service. We arrived at 12 noon and were held until 16.30 in the waiting room. This despite the fact that they knew that a patient arrived with stage 4 cancer, metastases in the spine. it’s very difficult for an old person with such a diagnosis to sit. My dad is 75 years old, my mother is 71. It is hard for a healthy, young one to sit in one place for almost 5 hours. Parents chose a place in 6 local wards. Single VIP is no different from her. The small room is stuffy and cramped. The attendant is provided with a seat. This is a roll-out mattress from under the bed, covered in leather or leatherette. There is no bedspread. We were given a blanket when asked. And Dad hung him on a nearby bed, so that from under it would not blow. He slept for 5 days in clothes on a mattress. On the day when they were supposed to do an MRI of the spine, my sister came to the reception several times asking her to take her mom early. As a result, the MRI was done at 14-30. All this time, Mom did not drink, did not eat in the evening. Terribly exhausted. They did an MRI for a long time, mom says probably 40 minutes and all this time she lay on a cold surface, froze very much and as a result, her mother was tormented by severe pain in the spine. When we sent mom to Korea, we thought that there mom would be well anesthetized, that Korea had the best drugs. When dad said that mom got worse there, that they are tormented by pains, from which she constantly cried, I asked to write the name of the pain medication. My sister immediately sent the name of pain relief to our doctor. It turned out she was given paracetamol (for some reason) and a tablet, while here Mom got pain medication three times a day with . About what everything was indicated in the extract.
Гульнара • Breast cancer
Kazakhstan
Oct 9, 2019
Verified review.
The whole atmosphere of the clinic gave us hope for a speedy recovery and a positive outlook on life
Fate had to visit the Quims clinic, which we learned about from the coordinator Catherine (Kiev). She kindly provided information and consulted in good faith during her stay in Korea. We were met at the airport, brought to the clinic. Polite translators worked with us. Quickly diagnosed. We took into account the wishes for acceleration in time of treatment. The conditions in the ward are acceptable. We were surrounded by the constant attention of medical staff. Communication with the Son and Khan processors, the whole atmosphere of the clinic gave us hope for a speedy recovery and a positive outlook on life. Thank. Rahmet from Gulnara and Zamira.
About Bookimed service
I'm very pleased. Thanks to Ekaterina. She conducted our stay in Korea very meticulously, correctly and kindly. I think that I now have a name in distant Ukraine named Ekaterina
София • Breast cancer
Kazakhstan
Oct 7, 2019
Verified review.
"I am very happy for getting to know BOOKIMED, professionals really work there, and most importantly, they are not indifferent people
I have breast cancer and I went through chemotherapy in Moscow. Six sessions have passed. It was very difficult to tolerate these procedures. A doctor in Kazakhstan said that this is enough, it is necessary to switch to tableted chemistry. And Moscow offered to continue doing chemotherapy. Opinions are divided. It was necessary to find a third party. I accidentally found your site on the Internet. Ekaterina Koliko wrote very quickly. The benevolence of Katyusha was immediately arranged towards her. She asked me what I would like to go to. I said that I want to go to the Severance clinic in Korea. Katyusha approved my choice. I sent all the necessary documents and Katyusha quickly redirected everything to the clinic. They began to wait for the invitation. For some reason (and for what I already knew in the clinic), there was no invitation. I am very grateful to Katyusha that she was in touch all the time, supported me, gave me hope. We arrived in Seoul in the morning, we were met by a transfer, brought to the hotel. After lunch, they were already in the clinic, I began to take tests. Constantly with me was one of the translators. Girls translators are great fellows, these are Lida, Olesya, Sofia, Tatyana, Alena. Any question could be addressed, they always prompted. They are professionals. Always with a smile, polite, with enormous patience, and most importantly, they understand that they work with a special audience, with people who did not come to rest. Someone to find out the diagnosis, and someone to do the operation. Thank you so much to the girls. The clinic was impressive. Doctors are professionals. The equipment is super. I got the opinion of a third party, it coincided with the opinion of a doctor from Kazakhstan. I was prescribed a prescription, I bought medicines at the pharmacy and started drinking on arrival home. I also want to write about Darina, who was engaged in transfer (the transfer to the clinic was very convenient and met and carried out), the selection of the hotel was also always in touch, and if I had any questions, she quickly answered them. I want to say that I am very happy for getting to know BOOKIMED, professionals really work there, and most importantly, they are not indifferent people. I am grateful to the Almighty and all who were near me. And the words of the doctor gave me inspiration and inspired great hope, for the sake of these words it was worth a long way to go. Once again, many thanks to all.
YANA Tkachenko • Mohs microsurgery
Russian Federation
Sep 27, 2019
Verified review.
My recommendations to friends, acquaintances only this Clinic! The prices are reasonable
Good day! I would like to share my impressions of being in the clinic. Thanks to the coordinators, the staff of the international clinic center, all wishes were taken into account. Special thanks to the attending physician, the procedure was perfect, the staff is very attentive, courteous. They are located in a 5-bed room, but at the same time there is no discomfort, food can be chosen taking into account personal taste preferences (Korean, European cuisine) and at the same time satisfying and varied. I can say one thing, there is no limit to my gratitude, my recommendations to friends, acquaintances only this Clinic! The prices are reasonable.
About Bookimed service
Very satisfied! Special thanks to Anna Chernova
Anonymous • Melanoma
Russian Federation
Jan 9, 2020
Verified review.
"The results were unbelievably positive!"
The staff is nice, but everything is on stream, as it does not take my problem seriously, as much as I would like! After my husband insistently said that it would be necessary to do so, so this, then after that we were heard.
About Bookimed service
Yes
Карина • Larynx cancer
Russian Federation
Aug 19, 2019
Verified review.
We will turn to you for re-treatment
I sent my dad for treatment, qualified assistance in selecting treatment and accompaniment, everything was at the highest level in the clinic (the prices bit a bit), thanks for the accompaniment and help, we will turn to you for re-treatment
ZHuldiz • Adenocarcinoma
Kazakhstan
Apr 4, 2024
Verified review.
A secondary opinion was needed from Prof
A secondary opinion was needed from Prof.
That everything was on time and affordable

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Anna Leonova
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A certified medical writer with 10+ years of experience, developed Bookimed’s trusted content, backed by a Master’s in Philology and medical expert interviews worldwide.
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General practitioner. Winner of 4 scientific awards. Served in Western Asia. Former Team Leader of a medical team supporting Arabic-speaking patients. Now responsible for data processing and medical content accuracy.
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This page may feature information relating to various medical conditions, treatments, and healthcare services available in different countries. Please be advised that the content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or guidance. Please consult with your doctor or a qualified medical professional before starting or changing medical treatment.

Our Chemotherapy Techniques: What Suits You Best?

When considering Chemotherapy, it’s important to understand the different techniques and which is best suited for you. Here’s a concise comparison of popular options:

Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)

HIPEC involves delivering heated chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity to treat cancer.

Pros: HIPEC can target cancer cells more effectively within the abdomen compared to syic chemotherapy. It has shown a 50% increase in survival rates for certain cancers.
Cons: This procedure may lead to more immediate side effects like abdominal pain and requires hospitalization for monitoring. Only suitable for cancers confined to the peritoneal cavity.
Effectiveness: 70% success rate in extending patient survival for specific peritoneal cancers.
Duration: 6-12 hours.
Recovery: 4-6 weeks.
Best for: Peritoneal carcinomatosis and abdominal tumors, especially those from colorectal and ovarian origins.
Prices: Cost of Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) in Republic of Korea from $18,000

Chemotherapy for liver cancer

Involves the use of powerful drugs to target and destroy cancer cells in the liver, aiming to shrink tumors and prevent metastasis.

Pros: Provides syic treatment, reaching cancer cells throughout the body. Effective in managing symptoms and improving quality of life for 40% of patients.
Cons: Associated with significant side effects like nausea and fatigue in 80% of cases. Less targeted compared to localized therapies like HIPEC.
Effectiveness: Achieves a tumor response rate of 20-30% in liver cancer cases.
Duration: Each session lasts 2-6 hours, repeated every 3 weeks.
Recovery: Initial recovery period of 1-2 months, with ongoing management of side effects.
Best for: Liver cancer patients with metastatic disease, requiring syic treatment. Addresses tumor reduction and symptom management.
Prices: Cost of Chemotherapy for liver cancer in Republic of Korea from $3,000

Chemotherapy for lung cancer

Chemo uses cancer drugs to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells in the lungs.

Pros: Effective in shrinking tumors and improving survival rates in 60% of cases. Can be used in combination with radiation therapy for better results.
Cons: Causes significant side effects like fatigue and nausea in 70% of patients. May not be suitable for those with existing health conditions.
Effectiveness: 60% success rate in tumor reduction.
Duration: Treatment sessions last 1-3 hours over several weeks.
Recovery: Recovery can take 4-6 weeks after the final session.
Best for: Targeting lung tumors and metastases in patients with stage 3 or 4 lung cancer.
Prices: Cost of Chemotherapy for lung cancer in Republic of Korea from $540

Chemotherapy for breast cancer

Chemotherapy for breast cancer is a syic treatment using drugs to destroy cancer cells in the body.

Pros: Effective in reducing tumor size before surgery, with a success rate of up to 70%. Can be combined with other therapies for better outcomes.
Cons: May cause significant side effects like hair loss and fatigue in 60% of patients. Requires multiple sessions over several months.
Effectiveness: Achieves a complete response in approximately 30% of patients.
Duration: 1-3 hours per session, repeated every 3 weeks over 3-6 months.
Recovery: Recovery from side effects can take several weeks to months.
Best for: Early-stage breast cancer and metastatic breast cancer. Suitable for patients with high-risk tumors.
Prices: Cost of Chemotherapy for breast cancer in Republic of Korea from $2,200

FAQ about Chemotherapy in Republic of Korea

These FAQs come from real patients seeking medical assistance through Bookimed. Answers are given by experienced medical coordinators and trusted clinic representatives.

Is Republic of Korea a good place for Chemotherapy procedure?

According to Bookimed, Republic of Korea is a good place for Chemotherapy because it has high-end clinics with skilled medical professionals and state-of-the-art equipment. The country is known for its advanced medical technology and patient-centered care. The country has a large number of medical tourists, including those from Europe, Russia, China, and the United Arab Emirates. The leading clinics for Chemotherapy in Republic of Korea are:

  • Ewha Woman's University Medical Center
  • Gachon University Gil Medical Center
  • Severance Hospital in Korea
  • Samsung Medical Center
  • Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong

Ewha Woman's University Medical Center is a multidisciplinary hospital for women only, and its top specialties include the treatment of breast, thyroid, urogenital cancers, and joint replacement. The clinic's focus is on the aesthetic results of the procedures, and they perform minimally invasive operations through small incisions so that a woman does not get visible scars. Patients from Europe, Russia, China, and the United Arab Emirates choose Ewha Medical Center every year.

Gachon University Gil Medical Center is a multidisciplinary hospital providing medical services of the international level and is a leading hospital not only in Korea, but also in Asia.

Severance Hospital in Korea is an international multidisciplinary clinic at Yonsei University, located in Seoul South Korea. The Hospital has been certified by JCI (Joint Commission International) and serves 1.6 million outpatients annually.

Samsung Medical Center is a prominent multidisciplinary hospital in South Korea that has repetitively received many awards in customer satisfaction and services quality. It has a special status of “Hospital of presidential standards”.

Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, also known as KUIMS, is a multidisciplinary medical facility in Seoul that combines different medical approaches in one facility, including international medicine with traditional one. Oncology, medical check-ups, orthopedics, and dentistry are the leading specialties at Kyung Hee University Medical Center. The center is a medical partner of the FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan and is recognized as an outstanding facility by WHO and UNICEF.

Despite a few negative reviews from patients, the majority of medical tourists choose Republic of Korea for Chemotherapy due to its high-end clinics with skilled medical professionals, state-of-the-art equipment, and advanced medical technology. Patients from Europe, Russia, China, and the United Arab Emirates choose clinics like Ewha Woman's University Medical Center, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Severance Hospital in Korea, Samsung Medical Center, and Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong.

How long does it take to get Chemotherapy in Republic of Korea?

Total time for a chemotherapy trip to Republic of Korea varies depending on the patient's location and treatment plan, but typically ranges from several weeks to a few months.

Which hospital is best for Chemotherapy in Republic of Korea?

Bookimed's rating has revealed the top 5 hospitals in Republic of Korea for Chemotherapy:

  1. Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong (KUIMS)
  2. Ewha Womans University Medical Center
  3. Gachon University Gil Medical Center
  4. Severance Hospital
  5. Samsung Medical Center

Who is the best Chemotherapy doctors in Republic of Korea?

Bookimed has identified the top doctors in Republic of Korea who excel in performing Chemotherapy:

  1. Kim Tae Joong, Hematology Oncology, Oncology
  2. Cho Jae-Yong, Hematology Oncology, Oncology
  3. Cho Byung Chul, Hematology Oncology, Oncology
  4. Dong-Wook Kim, Oncology
  5. Kim Dae Hyun, Oncology

What should you know about South Korea before the trip?

Currency

South Korean Won (you also can pay for services in dollars)

Best period for the trip

April, May & June or September, October & November.

Language

Korean (most of medical staff speaks English fluently)

Visa

none required for stays under 90 days or less

Time difference with Europe

9 hours

Time difference with the USA

9 hours

Capital

Seoul

Medical tourism center

Seoul

Popular resorts

Gangwon-do, Gyeongju, Boseong, Jeju

What is the level of medicine in South Korea?

Healthcare is the key development sector of the Korean government. The Korean authorities are convinced that care for the citizens' health should be an absolute priority of state policy and spend about 1 billion a year for medical tourists attraction.

According to Mark Britnell, hospitals dominate the health sy. 94% of hospitals are privately owned.

What hotel services are provided here?

In South Korea, hotels of different price ranges and service levels are presented. Most tourists choose 4 and 5 star hotels with all-inclusive meals. Such hotels have everything for a comfortable stay: varied food, a large well-groomed territory, animation for children and adults. Some hotels have their own water park, which guests can use for free. Budget travelers can afford to book an economical 3-star hotel with half board or no meals at all.

Do I need a visa to South Korea?

Today, South Korea has visa-free agreements with 112 states. None visa is required for stays under 90 days or less. To stay longer in this country, you need a visa. What states need a visa for treatment in South Korea and what countries can cross the border free and easy read here.

What documents are required to apply for a visa to South Korea for treatment?

Visas for travel to South Korea require a number of documents. The necessary papers can be submitted 90 days before the planned departure. Lists of documents includes:

  • ID card
  • confirmation of online registration and filling out the questionnaire
  • certificate of income and availability of funds
  • insurance policy for a stay in South Korea (original and copy)
  • 2 photos (5x6)
  • visa receipt
  • booking of flight and hotel
  • medical opinion about the need for treatment.

What are the most popular plastic surgery procedures?

According to ASPS statistics, 17.7 mln cosmetic surgeries and 5.8 mln reconstructive procedures have been performed in 2018. Among cosmetic procedures the most popular are:

  • breast augmentation
  • liposuction
  • rhinoplasty (nose job)
  • eyelid surgery
  • tummy tuck.

Tumor removal, laceration repair, maxillofacial surgery, scar revision, hand surgery are the most common operations in the context of reconstructive surgery.