Gonorrhea Treatment in Seoul

Can you tell me about the common treatments for gonorrhea in Korea? What are the typical costs associated with gonorrhea testing and treatment in South Korea? Where can I find clinics or hospitals that offer gonorrhea testing and treatment in Seoul, South Korea? What is the process for diagnosing gonorrhea in Korea? How long does it take to get gonorrhea test results in South Korea? What are the general guidelines or recommendations for gonorrhea treatment in Korea? What is gonorrhea and what are its symptoms? Are there any free or low-cost options for gonorrhea testing in Korea, especially for foreigners? What are the common antibiotics used to treat gonorrhea in Korea?

services/std-testing-and-treatment/gonorrhea-korea Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, and epididymitis in men. Fortunately, effective diagnosis and treatment are readily available in South Korea.



What is Gonorrhea and What Are Its Symptoms?

Gonorrhea is primarily transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat. Many people with gonorrhea, especially women, do not experience any symptoms, which is why regular testing is crucial for sexually active individuals.

Common Symptoms:

For individuals with a penis:

• Burning pain when peeing.
• White, yellow, or greenish discharge from the penis.
• Pain or swelling in one testicle (less common).

For individuals with a vagina:

• Increased vaginal discharge (often yellow or greenish).
• Painful urination.
• Vaginal bleeding between periods.
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.

Symptoms that can affect anyone (oral, anal, or eye infections):

• Rectal infection: Pain, itching, discharge from the anus, or bleeding. Often asymptomatic.
• Throat infection (pharyngitis): Usually asymptomatic, but can cause a sore throat.
• Eye infection (conjunctivitis): Redness, pain, and discharge, often from touching eyes after touching infected fluid.

If you suspect you have gonorrhea or have had unprotected sex, it's essential to get tested promptly.

The Process for Diagnosing Gonorrhea in Korea

Diagnosing gonorrhea in Korea follows standard international practices to ensure accuracy:

1. Consultation: A doctor (typically a urologist for men, gynecologist for women, or a general practitioner specializing in sexual health) will discuss your sexual history, symptoms, and risk factors. This helps determine the most appropriate tests.
2. Sample Collection: The primary method for diagnosing gonorrhea is through Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs), such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction). These tests are highly sensitive and specific. Samples can be collected from:

• Urine Sample: This is a common and convenient method, especially for urethral infections in men and vaginal/cervical infections in women.
• Swab Samples: If other sites are suspected of infection (e.g., throat, rectum, or cervix), swabs will be taken directly from these areas. For men, urethral secretions can also be collected.
• Lesion Swab: If any sores or discharge are present, a swab may be taken directly from the affected area.

1. Laboratory Analysis: The collected samples are sent to a lab for analysis using NAATs. These tests detect the genetic material of the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria.
2. Results: Results for common STDs like gonorrhea, especially via PCR, can be remarkably fast in Korea. Many clinics in Seoul, particularly in Gangnam, advertise same-day results (within a few hours to 24 hours) for these tests. For more comprehensive panels or less common infections, results might take a few business days (3-5 days).
3. Treatment and Counseling: If you test positive, the clinic will provide the necessary treatment, discuss potential co-infections (like Chlamydia), offer counseling on safe sex practices, and advise on notifying past and current sexual partners.

Common Treatments for Gonorrhea in Korea

The standard treatment for uncomplicated gonorrhea in Korea, consistent with international guidelines, primarily involves antibiotics. Due to increasing antibiotic resistance globally, the recommended regimen often uses a combination of drugs or a single high-dose injection.

The current general guidelines for uncomplicated gonococcal infection in Korea, as of the 2023 Korean Association of Urogenital Tract Infection and Inflammation (KAUTII) guidelines, recommend:

• Ceftriaxone: A single intramuscular (IM) injection of 500 mg. For adults weighing over 100 kg, a 1g dose may be recommended. This is a highly effective antibiotic.
• Co-treatment for Chlamydia: Because gonorrhea and chlamydia often co-occur, doctors may add Doxycycline (100 mg twice daily for 7 days) orally to the treatment regimen, especially if there's a possibility of co-infection or if Chlamydia has not been ruled out.
• Alternative if Ceftriaxone cannot be used: Spectinomycin 2g can be injected intramuscularly.

Important Notes on Treatment:

• Antibiotic Resistance: There has been a global increase in azithromycin resistance, and studies in Korea have also reported increased ceftriaxone resistance. Therefore, following the exact prescribed regimen is crucial.
• Test-of-Cure: Routine test-of-cure (retesting after treatment to confirm eradication) is generally not recommended for uncomplicated gonorrhea unless symptoms persist or recur. However, retesting within three months after treatment may be advised due to a high risk of re-infection, especially if partners are not treated.
• Partner Treatment: It is critical that all sexual partners from the last 60 days (or the last sexual partner if more than 60 days) are also tested and treated to prevent re-infection and further spread.

Typical Costs Associated with Gonorrhea Testing and Treatment in South Korea

The cost of gonorrhea testing and treatment in Korea is generally affordable and can vary depending on the clinic, the specific tests included, and whether you have Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS).

• Testing Cost:
• For a single gonorrhea test (often via urine PCR), costs can range from ₩20,000 to ₩50,000 (approximately USD 15-40), but this is a broad estimate.
• A full STD panel that includes gonorrhea (and other common STDs like HIV, Syphilis, Chlamydia) might range from ₩100,000 to ₩300,000+ (approximately USD 70 - 220+).
• Clinics like Proud Urology in Gangnam state that lab testing fees can typically range from ₩10,000 to ₩200,000.
• Treatment Cost: This will depend on the antibiotics prescribed. An intramuscular injection of ceftriaxone, plus any oral antibiotics, will add to the cost. With NHIS, the cost will be significantly lower. Without insurance, medication costs are typically reasonable.

It is always recommended to inquire about the exact costs, including consultation, testing, and medication, when you book your appointment.

Free or Low-Cost Options for Gonorrhea Testing in Korea, Especially for Foreigners

South Korea offers some options for affordable or free STD testing, particularly for those with limited financial resources or seeking anonymous testing:

• Public Health Centers (보건소 - Bogeonso): Many district public health centers across Korea offer free or very low-cost STD testing, including for gonorrhea. Eligibility often includes residents, but foreigners might also be able to access these services. Guro Public Health Center, for instance, explicitly lists free STD testing for Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and non-gonococcal urethritis for residents (with ID required). English services may vary, so it's good to call ahead.
• Korea Federation for HIV/AIDS Prevention (KHAP): KHAP provides free and anonymous rapid HIV and STI screening services for foreigners at rotating clinic locations. While the primary focus is HIV, they often include other common STIs. Some specific tests, like Chlamydia, might have a small associated fee (e.g., ₩30,000). KHAP is primarily for testing and usually refers for treatment.
• Community Health Clinics/Non-profit Organizations: Some community-based organizations or non-profit clinics may offer free or low-cost testing. Searching online or contacting local expat support groups might provide current information on such initiatives.

When seeking care, it's always advisable to call ahead to confirm services, costs, and availability of English-speaking staff. Prioritizing your sexual health with timely testing and treatment for gonorrhea in Korea is crucial for your well-being and the health of your partners.

What is HPV?

HPV is a group of over 100 viruses that can infect the skin and mucous membranes. It is highly contagious and primarily spreads through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.

There are two main types of HPV infections:

🔹 Low-Risk HPV – Causes genital warts but does not lead to cancer.
🔹 High-Risk HPV – Can lead to cancer of the genitals, anus, or throat if left untreated.



Why is the HPV Vaccine Important?

The HPV vaccine provides long-term protection against cancer-causing HPV strains and prevents the spread of genital warts. The vaccine is most effective before exposure to the virus, making early vaccination ideal for both men and women.

HPV-Related Health Risks in Men

• Genital warts – Caused by HPV types 6 and 11.
• Penile cancer – Linked to high-risk HPV strains.
• Anal cancer – More common in men with weakened immune systems.
• Oropharyngeal cancer – HPV-related throat cancer affecting the tonsils and base of the tongue.

Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) recommend HPV vaccination for:

✔ Adolescents (Ages 9-14) – The best time to receive the vaccine for maximum effectiveness.
✔ Young Adults (Ages 15-26) – Recommended for those who have not yet been vaccinated.
✔ Men & Women Up to Age 45 – Vaccination may still be beneficial, especially for those at risk of HPV exposure.



We offer FDA-approved HPV vaccines, including:

💉 Gardasil 9 – Protects against nine HPV strains, including types 6, 11, 16, and 18, which cause genital warts and HPV-related cancers.
💉 Cervarix – Protects against high-risk strains HPV 16 and 18, which are linked to cervical and anal cancer.

HPV Vaccine Schedule

The HPV vaccine is administered in a series of two or three doses, depending on the patient’s age:

At Proud Urology Clinic, our specialists will assess your health history and recommend the best HPV vaccination plan for you.

Is the HPV Vaccine Safe?

Yes! The HPV vaccine has been extensively studied and proven to be safe and effective. Side effects are generally mild and may include:
✅Soreness at the injection site
✅Mild fever or fatigue
✅Temporary dizziness or nausea



✔ Specialized Urology & Men's Health Experts – We provide trusted medical guidance on HPV prevention and treatment.
✔Confidential & Comfortable Care – Our clinic ensures private consultations and a professional environment.
✔FDA-Approved Vaccines – We use safe, globally recognized HPV vaccines.
✔Convenient Location in Gangnam – Easily accessible for local and international patients.



Protect Yourself from HPV – Get Vaccinated Today