Chemotherapy uses powerful medicines to destroy cancer cells or stop them dividing. Modern supportive care has transformed tolerability, and Korea's National Cancer Center and major university hospitals deliver internationally standardised chemotherapy protocols.
Chemotherapy refers to the use of cytotoxic (cell-killing) drugs to treat cancer by targeting rapidly dividing cells. It can be used with curative intent, to shrink tumours before surgery (neoadjuvant), to reduce recurrence after surgery (adjuvant), or palliatively to control cancer and improve quality of life. Modern oncology uses chemotherapy in combination with targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and radiation — tailoring treatment to each patient's cancer type, stage, and molecular profile.
In Korea, chemotherapy is delivered at the National Cancer Center (NCC) in Goyang and at major university hospital cancer centres nationwide, including dedicated paediatric oncology units at children's hospitals. Chemotherapy is administered by specialist oncology nurses under consultant oncologist supervision, in accordance with internationally standardised protocols aligned with NCCN, ESMO, and NICE guidelines. Clinical pharmacists review protocols for every patient. The multidisciplinary team approach — including oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, palliative care specialists, and nurses — ensures comprehensive care.
Side effects vary significantly by drug and regimen. Common effects include nausea and vomiting (now much better controlled with modern antiemetics), fatigue, hair loss (alopecia — often temporary), bone marrow suppression (reducing blood cell counts and infection risk), peripheral neuropathy, and mucositis. Modern supportive care — including highly effective antiemetics (ondansetron, dexamethasone, aprepitant), growth factors to boost white cell counts, and nutritional support — has transformed the tolerability of chemotherapy. Korea's major cancer centres have dedicated palliative care and supportive oncology teams to help patients through treatment.
Key Points
- Korea's National Cancer Center and university hospitals deliver internationally standardised chemotherapy protocols
- Modern antiemetics make nausea much more manageable than in the past
- Bone marrow suppression — report fever immediately during chemotherapy
- Hair loss from chemotherapy is usually temporary
- Multidisciplinary team care at major cancer centres ensures comprehensive support
- Paediatric oncology chemotherapy available at dedicated children's hospitals
When to See a Doctor
- Fever above 37.5°C during chemotherapy — possible neutropenic sepsis, call immediately
- Severe vomiting preventing oral fluid intake
- Unusual bleeding, bruising, or petechiae (small red dots)
- Severe mouth ulcers, diarrhoea, or constipation
- New or worsening symptoms between cycles
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: March 1, 2025