Hypertension (high blood pressure) is called the 'silent killer' because it usually has no symptoms. It is one of the most common chronic diseases in Korea and a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke.
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is defined as consistently elevated blood pressure at or above 130/80 mmHg (Stage 1) or 140/90 mmHg and above (Stage 2).
Hypertension is extremely common in Korea, affecting an estimated 28–30% of adults. Risk factors prevalent in Korea include high sodium intake from traditional cuisine (jjigae, jeotgal, kimchi), sedentary lifestyles, obesity, diabetes, and genetic predisposition. Many people in Korea are unaware they have hypertension because it typically causes no symptoms until it has caused significant organ damage.
Left unmanaged, hypertension damages arteries and vital organs over time, significantly increasing risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss. The good news: blood pressure is highly manageable through lifestyle changes and medication, and regular monitoring at any pharmacy or clinic takes only minutes.
Key Points
- Normal: below 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated: 120–129/<80 mmHg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130–139 / 80–89 mmHg
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/90+ mmHg
- Hypertensive crisis: above 180/120 mmHg — requires immediate emergency care
- Most hypertension has no symptoms — regular screening is essential
Causes & Risk Factors
- Primary (essential) hypertension: no single cause — develops gradually with age and lifestyle factors
- High sodium intake — common in traditional Korean cuisine (kimchi, jjigae, jeotgal)
- Obesity and excess weight
- Physical inactivity
- Smoking and excess alcohol
- Chronic kidney disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
When to See a Doctor
- Home blood pressure readings consistently above 130/80 mmHg
- Severe headache, chest pain, or vision changes with high BP — go to emergency
- Blood pressure above 180/120 mmHg — hypertensive crisis, call 119
- Annual blood pressure check for all adults over 40 in Korea
- More frequent monitoring if you have diabetes, kidney disease, or a family history of heart disease
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
Sources & References
- World Health Organization
- Korea Ministry of Health and Welfare
- Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency
- Korea National Health Insurance Service
- Mayo Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic
Last reviewed: May 29, 2026