You guys seen the news? COVID-19 is spreading again in some parts of Asia. Reports say Korea might see another surge too, so authorities are advising everyone to be extra careful.
Some of you might’ve already heard, but I’m going to walk you through what’s happening—and how it affects us living in Korea as foreigners. Let’s break it down.
Table of contents :
- COVID-19 Surge in Neighboring Asian Countries
- Current COVID-19 Situation in South Korea
- Public Health Measures and Everyday Life
- Free COVID-19 Vaccinations for High-Risk Foreigners
- How to Get Vaccinated
- New Variants to Know
- What If You Get COVID in Korea?
- Must-Have Apps for Foreign Residents
- Healthcare and Insurance Access
- Mental Health & Long COVID Support
- If You're Traveling In or Out of Korea: What to Know
- Government Announcements to Watch
- What to Expect This Summer in Korea
- FAQ: What Foreigners Are Asking
COVID-19 Surge in Neighboring Asian Countries
Taiwan 🇹🇼
From May 11 to 17, Taiwan reported over 19,000 COVID-19-related medical visits—an 88% spike from the previous week. Health officials expect a peak by mid to late June.
Singapore 🇸🇬
Singapore’s Ministry of Health reported 14,200 cases in the week of April 27–May 3, up 28% from the week before. Variants like LF.7 and NB.1.8.1 are behind the rise.
Hong Kong 🇭🇰
Wastewater surveillance indicates rising viral loads, and severe case numbers have hit a one-year high.
Thailand 🇹🇭
Thailand recorded over 33,000 cases in just one week (May 11–17), following the Songkran holiday.
China 🇨🇳
China’s hospital test positivity rate has more than doubled in five weeks. Most new severe cases are elderly, and NB.1.8.1 is the dominant variant.
Current COVID-19 Situation in South Korea
As of May 2025, South Korea’s COVID-19 situation is stable. Weekly hospitalizations remain low, around 100 cases nationwide, with a majority of severe cases found in the elderly population. According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), 59.3% of hospitalized patients are aged 65 or older.
However, the test positivity rate is slowly rising—jumping from 2.8% to 8.6% in recent weeks—indicating a potential upward trend. Authorities are not in crisis mode but are advising high-risk groups to get vaccinated and for everyone to remain vigilant during the summer months.
Public Health Measures and Everyday Life
Mask guidance: Masks are strongly recommended indoors and in public transport.
Disinfection: Hand sanitizer is widely available in public buildings.
QR codes: Check-in systems may return for high-risk venues.
Schools and workplaces: Most remain open, but contingency plans exist for remote operations.
Free COVID-19 Vaccinations for High-Risk Foreigners
South Korea is offering free COVID-19 booster shots until June 30, 2025, for:
Adults aged 65+
People with chronic conditions
Pregnant women
Frontline and medical workers
✅ Yes, foreign residents are eligible — no Korean citizenship or health insurance required. Bring your Alien Registration Card (ARC) and a Korean phone number to register.
How to Get Vaccinated
Check eligibility at KDCA (Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency) or call 1339.
Locate a nearby clinic and book an appointment via the KDCA or call 1339.
Bring your ARC, vaccine history (if any), and wear a mask.
New Variants to Know
JN.1: High transmission, mild-to-moderate symptoms.
LF.7: Spread rapidly in Southeast Asia.
NB.1.8.1: Currently dominant in China, linked to increased severity.
Experts are closely watching NB.1.8.1’s ability to evade immunity. Updated mRNA vaccines are being used in the 2025 spring campaign.
What If You Get COVID in Korea?
Test with a self-kit at home (available at pharmacies).
Call 1339 or your local district health center if positive.
Home isolate for at least 5 days. Avoid contact with others.
Monitor symptoms and visit a clinic if you worsen.
Must-Have Apps for Foreign Residents
COOV: Show vaccine certificates.
HiKorea: Visa, immigration, and public notices.
Emergency Ready: Alerts in English.
KakaoTalk: Join local COVID-19 channels for updates.
Healthcare and Insurance Access
Emergency treatment is free for COVID-19, regardless of insurance.
Long-term care is easier with National Health Insurance (NHIS).
Foreigners on student or work visas may qualify for group coverage.
Mental Health & Long COVID Support
Symptoms: fatigue, brain fog, anxiety.
Help lines: 1577-0199 (Mental Health Center, English available).
Free counseling at Seoul Global Center.
Join activities like yoga or group walks for recovery.
If You're Traveling In or Out of Korea: What to Know
Outbound Travelers: Check entry requirements for your destination. Some Asian countries may require vaccine proof or pre-departure tests.
Inbound to Korea: As of May 2025, there’s no quarantine requirement. However, depending on your country of departure and your symptoms, you may need to fill out a health declaration or register with Korea’s Q-Code system. All travelers must also complete an e-Arrival Card within 72 hours before entry.
Layover Tips: Ensure masks and sanitizers are packed. Some airports in Asia reintroduced mask mandates.
Flight Cancellations: Check airline COVID-19 policies and refund conditions in case of outbreak-related delays.
Government Announcements to Watch
KDCA Weekly Updates: Variants and vaccine campaign progress.
Ministry of Health and Welfare: Emergency readiness updates.
MOJ/HiKorea: Visa and re-entry policy changes for foreigners.
Local Governments: Check your local gu office or city hall site for region-specific safety rules.
What to Expect This Summer in Korea
Tourist Areas May Be Crowded: With relaxed entry measures, expect crowds in places like Jeju, Busan, and Seoul’s palace districts. Mask-wearing in tight spaces is still advised.
Festival Resumptions: Many summer festivals are scheduled to return. Keep an eye on local updates, as events may be postponed with short notice if outbreaks worsen.
Heat + COVID Precautions: Managing heatstroke while staying masked is a concern. Stay hydrated, avoid midday outdoor activity, and use cooling masks if needed.
Local Safety Campaigns: Some districts offer free masks or sanitizers during community events. Follow your district's social media or website.
FAQ: What Foreigners Are Asking
Q: Do I really get vaccinated for free as a foreigner?
A: Yes, if you're a long-term resident in a high-risk group (e.g., aged 65+, immunocompromised, or living in a high-risk facility). You'll need a valid Alien Registration Card (ARC) and a Korean mobile number. Short-term visitors and tourists are not eligible.
Q: I don’t have NHIS—can I still get treated?
A: Yes. Designated clinics will provide care without insurance.
Q: How do I stay informed in English?
A: Use apps like HiKorea, Emergency Ready, and follow your embassy’s alerts.
Q: Where can I get a self-test?
A: Most pharmacies carry approved kits with English instructions.
Q: What’s the isolation rule now?
A: Home isolation is recommended for 5 days. Monitor your symptoms.
Q: Can tourists access free care?
A: Only emergency treatment is guaranteed. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Q: Do children need to be vaccinated?
A: Not mandatory, but boosters are offered for children 12+ in high-risk groups.
Q: What if I lost my ARC during isolation?
A: Contact your local immigration office. Temporary certificates can be issued.
Final Thoughts: Stay Prepared, Not Panicked
Korea is not in crisis now—but with Asia’s COVID-19 cases climbing fast, the situation could shift. By acting early, getting vaccinated, and following health guidance, you can protect yourself and your community.
It’s also important to avoid pandemic fatigue. Just because the emergency phase has passed doesn’t mean the virus has disappeared. Use what you’ve learned over the past years to build smarter, more sustainable habits—carry a mask, wash your hands, check reliable sources, and communicate with your local community.
