Korea operates a comprehensive national immunisation programme through the KDCA, providing subsidised or free childhood vaccines and a range of options for adults and travellers.
Korea's national immunisation programme, coordinated by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), provides subsidised or free vaccines to children resident in Korea and follows an internationally recognised schedule broadly aligned with WHO-recommended practices.
Childhood vaccines commonly provided through the national programme include BCG (tuberculosis), Hepatitis B, DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b), IPV (inactivated polio), pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, rotavirus, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), varicella (chickenpox), Hepatitis A, and HPV vaccine for adolescents. Vaccinations are typically administered at pediatric clinics and public health centers, with records tracked through the national immunisation registry.
Adults moving to Korea should ensure routine vaccines (MMR, tetanus booster) are up to date, and annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all residents, particularly children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions. Travellers should check destination-specific requirements separately. Most hospitals, pediatric clinics, and many pharmacies-adjacent clinics across Korea offer vaccination services, and NHIS typically subsidises nationally recommended vaccines.
Key Points
- KDCA coordinates Korea's national immunisation programme
- Broadly aligned with WHO-recommended vaccination schedules
- Subsidised or free vaccines for children through the national programme
- HPV vaccine offered to adolescents — helps prevent cervical cancer
- Annual flu vaccine recommended for all residents, especially vulnerable groups
- Adults should confirm they are up to date with MMR and tetanus boosters
When to See a Doctor
- Register your newborn's vaccination schedule with a pediatric clinic promptly after birth
- If you have recently moved to Korea and are unsure about your vaccination status
- Before international travel — check destination-specific vaccine requirements separately
- If you have a chronic condition (diabetes, heart disease) — flu and pneumococcal vaccines are especially recommended
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
Related Specialties
Related Treatments
Find a Doctor in Korea
This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions
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
Last reviewed: July 8, 2026