An ECG (Electrocardiogram) is a quick, painless test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It is used to detect arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other cardiac conditions.
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) measures and records the electrical signals generated by the heart with each beat. Small electrode patches (leads) are attached to the skin on the chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes detect electrical impulses and transmit them to an ECG machine, which produces a graph showing the pattern of the heart's electrical activity. The entire procedure takes about 10 minutes and is completely painless.
ECG is an essential diagnostic tool for evaluating cardiac symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting. It can identify arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), evidence of a previous or ongoing heart attack, left or right ventricular hypertrophy, and electrolyte imbalances. A standard resting ECG captures a snapshot in time; for intermittent symptoms, a Holter monitor — a portable ECG worn for 24–48 hours — may be recommended.
In Korea, ECG is available at all hospitals, community health centres, and most private clinics. It is commonly performed as part of routine pre-operative assessment, workplace health checks, and cardiovascular risk screening. No special preparation is required, though patients should avoid applying moisturising creams or lotions to the chest and limbs on the day of the test, as this can affect electrode adhesion.
Key Points
- Records the heart's electrical activity via electrodes on skin — painless, takes ~10 minutes
- Detects arrhythmias, evidence of heart attack, chamber hypertrophy
- No special preparation required — avoid applying body lotion before the test
- Holter monitor is a wearable ECG for 24–48 hour cardiac rhythm monitoring
- Standard test available at community health centres, hospitals, and private clinics in Korea
- A normal ECG does not rule out all heart conditions — further tests may be needed
Causes & Risk Factors
- Chest pain or pressure — to rule out cardiac origin
- Palpitations, irregular heartbeat, or racing heart
- Shortness of breath or dizziness without obvious cause
- Fainting episodes (syncope)
- Pre-operative cardiac assessment before surgery
- Routine screening in patients with hypertension, diabetes, or family history of heart disease
When to See a Doctor
- If you experience chest pain, especially radiating to the arm, jaw, or back — this requires urgent evaluation
- If you have new-onset palpitations, irregular heartbeat, or episodes of racing heart
- If you faint or feel pre-syncopal (about to faint) without clear cause
- If you have unexplained shortness of breath or exercise intolerance
- As part of a cardiovascular risk assessment if you have multiple risk factors
- Before starting a new exercise programme, especially for adults over 40
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.
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Last reviewed: May 29, 2026