Korean Job Discussion Forums

df1983 · Joined: 15 Aug 2009 Location: Pyongtaek, Korea

I move to Korea in about a week or two and I am wondering how common alternative medicinal practices are in Korea.

Are there homeopathic doctors?

What about chiropractors, herbalists, acupuncturists, and massage therapists?

jinks · Joined: 27 Oct 2004 Location: Formerly: Lower North Island

Yes, there is a lot of that sort of thing.
In my experience, oriental medicine doctors are less likely to speak English than western medicine doctors. I was very impressed the last time I went to a haany-won (oriental medicine clinic), not because the guy fixed the problem, but because he took a look at my problem and refered me to a nearby pibu-gwan (western dermatology clinic). I haven't come across many western medicine practitioners who are comfortable with recommending any other style of treatment if they think it more applicable. The haany-won guy didn't even charge me for the consultation, and I was happy with the treatment and advice from the dermatologist - happy ending all round.
But back to your question OP, you can get by with basic Korean in the traditional medicine clinics, but if you have a serious complaint take a Korean speaker with you, but preferably NOT a work colleague (they often gossip).

D.D. · Joined: 29 May 2008

Very low quality because the Koreans don't like to accept Dr.s from overseas so the best and cutting edge techniques are not here. Also a lot of Gps will pretend they trained in alternative med but they are really doing it for the cash. I have met many Gps that pretend to be chiropractors when the truth is chiropractors need to study at least 7 years to become one. The Koreans go to a weekend seminar on manipulation and hang the chiropractic term on top of their GP degree. I believe they have a good natural medicine culture. the acupuncture I have been to has just been symptom based which is not really acupuncture.

It's a difficult question but I would rate korea as 3/10 for alternative medicine. There is nobody I will see in this country and I like alternative therapies. First thing I do when I get out of Korea on vacation is seel out good alternative practitioners.