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STD Testing in Busan

Most OB/GYN clinics in Busan can test for sexually transmitted infections using a vaginal swab, a urine sample or a blood draw. This guide explains which tests to ask for, when to get tested and what to expect on cost and insurance.

What STD testing covers

"STD testing" is not a single test. Clinics usually combine several methods depending on your symptoms and history:

• Swab or urine PCR tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomonas, Mycoplasma genitalium and ureaplasma. Many clinics offer a multi-pathogen PCR panel from a single swab.
• Blood tests for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C, and sometimes herpes antibodies.
• HPV testing , often done alongside a Pap smear.
• Visual exam for sores, warts or unusual discharge.

When to get tested

• You have a new partner, more than one partner, or a partner who has tested positive.
• You notice unusual discharge, burning when urinating, bleeding after sex, sores or bumps.
• Before stopping condoms with a new partner, or before an IUD insertion.
• After a possible exposure. Some infections take time to show up: swab tests are most reliable about 1 to 2 weeks after exposure, while blood tests for HIV and syphilis may need several weeks. A doctor may suggest testing now and again later.

What the visit involves

You fill in a short questionnaire, speak with the doctor and then have a pelvic exam with a swab, or give a urine sample. A nurse may draw blood. Swabs take only a minute or two. Some rapid tests give results the same day; PCR panels and blood tests usually take a few days, and clinics often deliver results by phone, text or a follow-up visit.

Cost and insurance

Tests ordered because you have symptoms are often partly covered under National Health Insurance (NHI). Screening without symptoms, and large multi-pathogen PCR panels, are frequently self-pay. Prices vary between clinics, so ask for a quote for the specific tests before the swab is taken. See the STD test cost guide for what drives the price.

Free HIV testing at public health centers

Busan's district public health centers (보건소) offer free HIV testing, and anonymous testing is available, according to a November 2025 Busan Metropolitan City announcement. Call your district center first to check hours and whether results are given in person.

Tips for foreigners

• Bring your ARC or passport. If you have NHI, the clinic applies it automatically.
• Call ahead to ask whether walk-ins are accepted and whether a doctor speaks English. The 1330 travel hotline can help interpret.
• Write down your symptoms, dates of possible exposure and any medications.
• Partners should be tested and treated too, or the infection can come back.

More advice for visitors and residents is on the international patients page.

Related

• Women's STD Panel
• Same-Day STD Test
• Chlamydia Test
• HIV Test
• HPV Testing
• STD Test Cost Korea
• International Patients

Elsewhere in Korea

• STD testing in Gangnam, Seoul
• STI & STD testing in Daegu

When to get help sooner

See a doctor promptly if you have fever with pelvic or lower abdominal pain, pain during sex, or a painful sore. Go to an emergency room for severe abdominal pain, fainting, or heavy bleeding. If you had a high-risk HIV exposure in the last 72 hours, go to a hospital emergency room right away to ask about post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

Busan clinics for STD testing

These clinics are listed in our directory with STD testing or extended hours. Services and hours change, so call ahead to confirm before you visit.

STD testing FAQ