Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) globally and in Korea. It's often called a "silent infection" because many people don't experience symptoms, making regular testing crucial, especially for sexually active individuals or those with new partners. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious health issues, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can cause infertility, and epididymitis in men.

Fortunately, chlamydia is easily diagnosed and effectively treated with antibiotics. For foreigners in South Korea, there are excellent and discreet options for testing.



Why Get Tested for Chlamydia?

• Often Asymptomatic: The majority of people with chlamydia have no symptoms, or symptoms are mild and easily dismissed.
• Serious Complications: Untreated chlamydia can lead to:
• In women: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.
• In men: Epididymitis (inflammation of the tubes that carry sperm), leading to pain and potentially infertility.
• Both sexes: Increased risk of contracting or transmitting HIV, and reactive arthritis (Reiter's syndrome).
• Easy to Treat: Chlamydia is a bacterial infection and can be cured with a short course of antibiotics.

Where Can Foreigners Get Tested for Chlamydia in Korea?

Foreigners in Korea have several reliable and confidential options for chlamydia testing:

1. Private Urology Clinics (for men) and OB/GYN Clinics (for women):

• Most Common & Convenient: These clinics are generally the most accessible and foreigner-friendly. Many operate on a walk-in basis, though calling ahead is recommended to confirm English-speaking staff availability and check wait times.
• Discreet & Confidential: Private clinics prioritize patient privacy and offer a non-judgmental environment.
• English-Speaking Staff: Clinics in major expat areas like Gangnam and Itaewon (Seoul) often have English-speaking doctors, nurses, or coordinators.
• Comprehensive Testing & Treatment: They offer a full range of STD tests, including urine tests which are commonly used for chlamydia. They can also provide immediate treatment (antibiotics) if results are positive.
• Examples of Clinics that offer Chlamydia Testing:
• StanTop Urology & Andrology Clinic (Gangnam, Seoul): Offers confidential STD testing, including PCR tests for chlamydia, with rapid response (results within 24 hours) and same-day treatment often available.
• Proud Urology Clinic (Gangnam, Seoul): Emphasizes fast, confidential, and affordable STD/STI testing for expats and travelers, with same-day testing and results often by email.
• Seoul Trueman Urology Clinic (Seoul): Known for its discretion, efficiency, and expert care in male health and STDs. They have English-speaking staff and offer same-day service.
• Seoul LANTE OBGYN Clinic (Gangnam, Seoul): Provides quick, confidential, and foreigner-friendly STD tests for women, with board-certified gynecologists and clear guidance.
• Songpa Goeunbit Women's Clinic (Songpa, Seoul): Offers comprehensive and confidential STD testing services, including for chlamydia, with English-speaking female doctors available.

1. Public Health Centers (보건소 - Bogeonso):

• Free or Low-Cost: Some public health centers may offer free or very low-cost testing for chlamydia as part of their STD screening programs. They are excellent for HIV and syphilis testing (often free and anonymous).
• Confidentiality: Confidentiality is strictly maintained.
• Limited English: English support can be inconsistent, so it's a good idea to bring a Korean-speaking friend or use a translation app.
• Identification: While HIV testing is often anonymous, for other tests at public health centers, you may need to present identification (e.g., ARC or passport).
• Note: While some public health centers list "non-gonococcal urethritis" (NGU), which chlamydia is a common cause of, explicitly confirming "chlamydia testing" is best. For example, Guro Public Health Center mentions free testing for Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and NGU.

1. Korea Federation for HIV/AIDS Prevention (KHAP):

• Free & Anonymous: KHAP provides free and anonymous HIV/AIDS and STI testing (including chlamydia) and counseling specifically for foreigners living in Korea.
• Multilingual Support: They are dedicated to serving the foreign community and offer services in various languages.
• Check Schedule and Locations: KHAP operates in various locations (e.g., Itaewon, Gireum, Ansan, Busan) on a rotating schedule. You need to check their website (khap.org) or contact them via KakaoTalk/LINE for their current testing schedule and locations.

1. University Hospitals:

• Comprehensive Care: Large university hospitals (e.g., Asan Medical Center, Severance Hospital, Samsung Medical Center) have robust urology and OB/GYN departments that offer comprehensive STD testing and treatment.
• High Standards: They adhere to international medical standards and often have international patient services with dedicated English-speaking coordinators.
• More Expensive: Generally the most expensive option if you don't have Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) or a private international health insurance plan.

How is Chlamydia Tested?

Chlamydia is primarily diagnosed through:

• Urine Test: This is the most common and preferred method. You simply provide a urine sample.
• Swab Test: For individuals with symptoms or for specific screening, swabs might be collected from the urethra (in men), cervix (in women), or sometimes the throat or rectum.

These tests detect the bacterial DNA (often via PCR – Polymerase Chain Reaction) and are highly accurate.

Cost of Chlamydia Testing in Korea:

• Public Health Centers / KHAP: Chlamydia testing is often free at these facilities when part of their STD screening programs for foreigners.
• Private Clinics: Prices are generally reasonable, especially compared to many Western countries.
• As part of a basic STD panel (which usually includes HIV, Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and Chlamydia), the cost can range from approximately ₩100,000 to ₩250,000 KRW (around $75 to $185 USD).
• An individual chlamydia test (urine or swab) might cost around ₩30,000 to ₩80,000 KRW (approx. $22 to $60 USD).
• If you have Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) and your Alien Registration Card (ARC), your out-of-pocket cost will be significantly reduced.

What to Expect During Your Visit:

1. Walk-in or Appointment: Many private clinics accept walk-ins. For public health centers or KHAP, check their schedules.
2. Registration: You'll fill out a form. For clinics, you'll generally need your ARC or passport.
3. Consultation: A doctor will discuss your sexual history and any symptoms. Honesty is key for accurate diagnosis.
4. Testing: A urine sample is typically collected. If necessary, a swab will also be taken. The process is quick.
5. Results: Results for chlamydia PCR tests are usually available within 1-3 business days. Some clinics, like StanTop, aim for 24-hour turnaround. Results can often be sent via email or phone.
6. Treatment & Follow-up: If positive, the clinic will provide counseling and prescribe oral antibiotics (e.g., Azithromycin or Doxycycline). It's crucial to take all medication as directed and notify recent sexual partners so they can also be tested and treated. Follow-up testing might be recommended to confirm the infection has cleared.

Don't let concerns about language or cost deter you. Chlamydia is highly treatable, and early detection is vital for your health and that of your partners. South Korea offers efficient and confidential pathways for foreigners to get tested.