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HPV Vaccine Cost in Korea

Some young people in Korea get the HPV vaccine free under the national immunization program. Most adults pay out of pocket, and the 9-valent vaccine (Gardasil 9) is self-pay for everyone. Here is what to expect.

Who gets it free

According to 2026 national immunization program guidance published by local public health centers, the free HPV vaccine (the 4-valent Gardasil) is offered to:

  • Girls aged 12 to 17
  • Boys aged 12
  • Low-income women aged 18 to 26 (basic livelihood recipients or near-poor households)

The free program uses the 4-valent vaccine; the 9-valent vaccine is not included. Exact birth-year cutoffs change each year, so check with a designated clinic or your district public health center (보건소).

What adults pay for Gardasil 9

A June 2026 Money Today report citing the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRA) put the nationwide average price of Gardasil 9 at about 219,000 won per dose , with clinics charging roughly 160,000 to 300,000 won per dose . With three doses, a full course comes to roughly 480,000 to 900,000 won. Prices change, so confirm with the clinic. The 4-valent vaccine is also available as self-pay for people outside the free program; ask clinics for current prices.

How many doses

Per the national program guidance: two doses 6 to 12 months apart if you start at age 12 to 14, and three doses (at 0, 2 and 6 months) if you start at 15 or older. Your doctor will confirm the schedule.

What drives the price

  • Vaccine type (4-valent vs 9-valent)
  • Number of doses needed
  • Clinic pricing; HPV vaccines for adults are non-covered (비급여), so prices vary
  • Consultation fees, if charged

Some local governments run their own free Gardasil 9 programs; ask your district health center whether Busan or your district has one.

Tips for foreigners

  • Bring your ARC or passport and any vaccination records from home.
  • If you started a series abroad, you can usually continue it here.
  • Compare prices by calling clinics or checking HIRA's non-covered fee data. See international patients .

Related

When to get help sooner

The vaccine prevents infection but doesn't treat it. See a gynecologist promptly for bleeding after sex, new genital growths, or an abnormal Pap result.

HPV vaccine cost FAQ

  • Is the HPV vaccine covered by NHI for adults?

    No. Outside the free national program, HPV vaccines are self-pay.

  • Can foreign children get the free vaccine?

    Children in the eligible age group who are registered residents can generally use the national program. Ask a designated clinic or the public health center.

  • Is Gardasil 9 worth the extra cost?

    It covers more HPV types than the 4-valent vaccine. Discuss with your doctor; both protect against the types that cause most cervical cancers and genital warts.

  • Can I get vaccinated after 26?

    Yes, many clinics vaccinate adults beyond 26 on request, though the benefit is generally smaller. Discuss it with a doctor.