Birth Control › Emergency Contraception
Emergency Contraception in Busan
Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, a condom break or missed pills. In Korea the pills require a doctor's prescription, so act quickly: visit an OB/GYN, get the prescription, and fill it at a pharmacy the same day.
Your options
- Levonorgestrel pill : labeled for use within 72 hours. It works best the sooner it's taken, ideally within 24 hours.
- Ulipristal acetate pill : labeled for use within 120 hours (5 days), and more effective than levonorgestrel later in that window.
- Copper IUD : inserted within 5 days, it is the most effective emergency method and continues as long-term contraception. See Copper IUD .
Emergency pills mainly work by delaying ovulation. They do not end an existing pregnancy.
Prescription rules in Korea
Korea classifies emergency contraceptive pills as prescription-only medicines. Proposals to allow pharmacy sales without a prescription have been debated for over a decade, but as of 2026 the prescription requirement remains. Avoid buying pills online, as they may be counterfeit.
What the visit involves
- A short consultation: when the unprotected sex happened, your last period, other medications and body weight. These can affect which pill is best.
- Usually no pelvic exam is needed.
- The doctor explains which pill to take and when to restart regular contraception. Ulipristal can interact with hormonal birth control, so follow the doctor's timing.
Cost and insurance
Emergency contraception is not covered by National Health Insurance (NHI). The medicine is self-pay, and you also pay a consultation fee, which is lower if you're NHI-enrolled. Ulipristal products generally cost more than levonorgestrel. See our emergency contraception cost guide .
Tips for foreigners
- Say eung-geup pi-im-yak (응급피임약) when you call or arrive.
- Bring your ARC or passport.
- On weekends, use clinics with Saturday hours below. Sunday options are limited, so hospital ERs may help.
- Phone interpretation: 1330. See our international patients guide .
Related
Elsewhere in Korea
When to get help sooner
Take a pregnancy test if your period is over a week late. Go to an ER for severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding or fainting. After sexual assault, call 112 or the Women's Emergency Hotline 1366. Hospitals can provide emergency contraception, STI care and support.
OB/GYN clinics in Busan for emergency contraception
Any OB/GYN can prescribe emergency contraception, usually without an appointment. Many below open Saturdays or evenings. Call to confirm hours.
| Clinic | Area | Phone | Listed features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jamo Women's Hospital (Gwangan Jamo Hospital) | Gwangan-dong (Gwangalli) | 051-760-0600 | Female doctor, Delivers, Sat, IUD |
| Roaen OB/GYN Clinic | Seomyeon (Bujeon-dong) | 051-804-3000 | Sat, Evenings, STD tests |
| Centum Eroom Women's Clinic | Centum City (U-dong) | 051-758-8275 | Sat, Fertility |
| Eve & Adam Women's Clinic | Centum City (U-dong) | 051-743-7585 | Sat, Evenings, STD tests |
| Ms For You Women's Clinic | Jwa-dong (Jangsan) | 051-636-7975 | Sat, Evenings |
| Dongnae Bom OB/GYN Clinic | Oncheon-dong | 051-711-2060 | Sat, Evenings |
| Seoul Samsung OB/GYN Clinic | Yeonsan-dong | 051-714-3500 | Sat |
| Jini OB/GYN Clinic | Jangjeon-dong (Pusan Natl Univ) | 051-582-8275 | Sat, Evenings |
| Mari Women's Clinic | Daeyeon-dong (Kyungsung-Pukyong Univ) | 051-626-1009 | Sat, STD tests |
| She's Bon OB/GYN Clinic | Suyeong / Millak area | Not listed | Sat, STD tests |
| Rose Women's Clinic | Nampo-dong | 051-245-7911 | Sat, Evenings |
Emergency contraception: FAQ
Do I need a prescription for emergency contraception in Korea?
Yes. Emergency contraceptive pills are prescription-only in Korea. See a doctor first, then go to a pharmacy.
How soon do I need to act?
As soon as possible. Levonorgestrel is labeled for up to 72 hours and ulipristal for up to 120 hours. A copper IUD works up to 5 days.
Where can I go on a Sunday?
Few clinics open on Sundays. A hospital emergency room can assess you, but costs are higher. If you're within the ulipristal window, a Monday clinic visit may still be an option.
Is it safe to use more than once?
Yes, it's safe, but it's less effective than regular contraception. Ask the doctor about an ongoing method.
Does NHI cover it?
No. The pills are self-pay.