Dialysis replaces the function of failed kidneys — filtering waste products and excess fluid from the blood. Korea offers comprehensive haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis services.
Dialysis is a life-sustaining treatment for end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) — the final stage of chronic kidney disease where the kidneys can no longer adequately filter the blood. It replaces two critical kidney functions: removing waste products and toxins (particularly urea, creatinine, and potassium) and eliminating excess fluid. Without dialysis or kidney transplantation, ESKD is fatal within weeks to months.
The two main modalities are haemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD). Haemodialysis uses a machine (dialyser) to filter blood through an artificial membrane — typically performed three times per week for 4-hour sessions at a dialysis centre. In Korea, dialysis is provided at hospital-based and free-standing dialysis centres nationwide, with National Health Insurance (NHIS) covering a substantial share of the cost — Korea has designated ESKD as a 'rare and intractable disease' category, which significantly reduces the co-payment burden for dialysis patients. Peritoneal dialysis uses the patient's own peritoneal membrane (lining of the abdomen) to filter blood using dialysis fluid infused through a permanent catheter — it can be done at home, offering more flexibility and independence.
Diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease caused by diabetes) and hypertensive nephropathy are the leading causes of ESKD in Korea, reflecting the high prevalence of these conditions, particularly in an ageing population. Kidney transplantation — from living or deceased donors — offers the best long-term outcomes for eligible patients and is performed at major transplant centres nationwide. Korea's Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) has invested in expanding dialysis capacity, recognising ESKD as a growing public health challenge.
Key Points
- Haemodialysis: 3 sessions/week at a dialysis centre — most common modality in Korea
- Peritoneal dialysis: done at home — more independence for suitable patients
- NHIS-subsidised dialysis: substantially reduced co-payments for ESKD as a designated rare/intractable disease
- Kidney transplantation offers best long-term outcomes for eligible patients
- Strict diet and fluid restrictions essential between dialysis sessions
- Early nephrology referral in CKD prevents or delays need for dialysis
When to See a Doctor
- Reduced urine output, severe fatigue, swollen legs, and confusion may indicate kidney failure
- All patients with CKD stage 4+ should be under nephrology care
- Any dialysis patient with signs of infection at access site, fever, or missed sessions
- Discussion of pre-emptive kidney transplantation in suitable candidates
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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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: March 1, 2025