Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions globally and is increasingly common in Korea, driven by high rates of diabetes and hypertension — its two leading causes. Early detection and management can dramatically slow its progression.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the gradual loss of kidney function over months to years. The kidneys filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood — when this function declines, waste accumulates, leading to complications including anaemia, bone disease, cardiovascular disease, and eventually kidney failure. CKD is classified into five stages based on eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate), with stage 5 representing kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplantation.
In Korea, diabetes mellitus and hypertension are the leading causes of CKD, reflecting the high prevalence of both conditions in an ageing population. Korea's community health centre network plays a critical role in CKD prevention — by helping patients achieve good blood pressure control and blood sugar management, kidney damage can be slowed or even halted in the early stages. The RAAS-blocking medications (ACE inhibitors and ARBs) are proven to protect the kidneys in diabetic and hypertensive patients and are widely prescribed.
Korea's renal care system — led by nephrology departments at major hospitals and including multiple private nephrology clinics — provides comprehensive CKD management, haemodialysis at multiple centres nationwide, peritoneal dialysis support, and a renal transplant programme. Korea's dialysis infrastructure is among the most advanced in Asia, and NHIS provides substantial coverage for dialysis treatment. Regular monitoring (eGFR, urine ACR, blood pressure, HbA1c) is the key to early detection and proactive management.
Key Points
- 5 stages based on eGFR — early stages often have no symptoms
- Korea's leading causes: diabetes and hypertension
- Early treatment can significantly slow or halt progression
- Major hospitals provide haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and renal transplant services
- Annual kidney function screening (eGFR + urine ACR) for diabetic and hypertensive patients
- Medications (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, SGLT2 inhibitors) proven to protect kidneys
Causes & Risk Factors
- Diabetes mellitus (diabetic nephropathy) — most common cause globally and in Korea
- Hypertension (hypertensive nephropathy)
- Glomerulonephritis (immune-mediated kidney inflammation)
- Polycystic kidney disease (genetic)
- Recurrent kidney infections
- Long-term NSAID use (ibuprofen, diclofenac) damaging kidney tissue
When to See a Doctor
- Annual kidney function test if you have diabetes or hypertension
- If you notice swelling of the ankles or legs, persistent fatigue, or foamy urine
- If blood tests show elevated creatinine or low eGFR
- Before starting long-term NSAID use — discuss kidney risks with your doctor
- If you have a family history of kidney disease or polycystic kidney 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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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.
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Last reviewed: May 29, 2026