Have you ever needed to overcome a language barrier while accessing healthcare in Korea? Many of us have, even those who speak Korean somewhat fluently. Language barriers can be challenging but not impossible to navigate. This blog post offers some tips on how to overcome such language barriers that may help.

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Unfortunately, we learned about blood types that may face difficulties in finding donations in Korea the tragic way. Therefore, researching this information so that international residents interested in moving to Korea understand 1) the potential risks for certain blood types and 2) the importance of donating blood. Let’s talk about this very serious life-and-death issue. Globally, Blood Types Vary The issue of blood type availability is not unique to Korea. Blood type availability in the medical field varies significantly by country due to differences in blood type distribution, donation systems, and healthcare infrastructure. In countries like the United States and most of Europe, blood types O+ and A+ are the most common, making them generally more available for medical use. However, countries such as South Korea and Japan have a higher prevalence of blood types like B+ and AB+, which are relatively rare in Western nations. In fact, the availability of Rh-negative blood types, such as O- and A-, is a challenge in many Asian countries. In such Asian countries, Rh-negative blood is very rare, comprising less than 1% of the population in places like Korea and Japan. To address these shortages, countries implement various strategies such as targeted blood donation campaigns, blood management systems, and international cooperation for rare blood types. The disparities in blood type distribution require tailored approaches to ensure an adequate supply, especially during emergencies and for patients with rare blood types. Let’s talk about how such issue manifest in South Korea so that you know how they may impact you or your loved ones. Blood Types That May Face Difficulties in Finding Donations in Korea In South Korea, much like other Asian countries, negative blood types remain difficult to access. Such negative blood types include: O- (Negative) A- (Negative) B- (Negative) AB- (Negative) Why These Blood Types Struggle in South Korea Low Prevalence of Rh-Negative Blood Types In South Korea, Rh-negative blood types (O-, A-, B-, AB-) are very rare, with an estimated 0.3% of the population being Rh-negative. This makes it more difficult for Rh-negative individuals to find compatible donors. Smaller Donor Pool With a smaller population of Rh-negative individuals, the blood donation system is less likely to have a robust supply of these rare blood types readily available. Nationalities with Higher Proportions of Rh-Negative Blood Types The distribution of Rh-negative blood types varies significantly across different ethnic and national groups. Generally, Rh-negative blood types are more prevalent among people of European descent and less common in other populations. Below is an overview of nationalities and ethnic groups with higher proportions of Rh-negative blood types: Region/Country Estimated Percentage of Rh-Negative Individuals Insights Basque Country (Spain & France) 15-30% The Basque population has one of the highest frequencies of Rh-negative blood types globally. This high prevalence is attributed to their unique genetic heritage. Northern Europe 15-20% Countries include the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Netherlands, and the Scandinavian countries (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland). Northern Europeans exhibit higher Rh-negative rates compared to other European regions. Western Europe 10-15% Countries such as France, Germany, and the Netherlands fall into this category. The prevalence is slightly lower than in Northern Europe but still significant. Central Europe 10-15% Includes countries like Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, and Poland. Rh-negative blood types are relatively common in these populations. Southern Europe 5-10% Countries include Italy, Spain, Greece, and Portugal. The prevalence of Rh-negative blood types decreases as you move towards Southern Europe. Middle East & North Africa 5-7% Rh-negative blood types are present but less common, influenced by genetic diversity and historical migrations in these regions. Latin America 5-10% Due to a mixture of European, Indigenous, and African ancestries, Latin American populations have a variable prevalence of Rh-negative blood types. South Asia 1-3% Countries include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Rh-negative blood types are rare in these populations. East Asia <1% Countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan have extremely low frequencies of Rh-negative blood types. Africa 1-2% Rh-negative blood types are very rare in African populations. Native Americans & Indigenous Peoples <1% Rh-negative blood types are extremely rare among Native American and other indigenous groups. Implications for International Residents Living in South Korea For international residents living in South Korea, the distribution of blood types, particularly Rh-negative blood, has important implications for both healthcare access and emergency preparedness. Since Rh-negative blood is extremely rare in South Korea—comprising less than 1% of the population—international residents, especially those from regions with higher Rh-negative prevalence, need to be aware of the potential challenges in finding compatible blood. Below are the key implications: Difficulty in Finding Rh-Negative Blood Importance of Donating Blood International Cooperation and Importation of Blood Healthcare Awareness and Communication Additional Measures for Pregnant Women Planning is Critical For international residents living in South Korea, especially those from countries with a higher prevalence of Rh-negative blood types, being proactive is essential. Challenges in accessing Rh-negative blood in South Korea can be mitigated by regular blood donation, clear communication with healthcare providers, and emergency preparedness. By staying informed and taking the right steps, foreign residents can ensure they receive the best possible care, even in urgent situations where rare blood types are needed. By understanding the challenges and taking proactive steps, individuals with these rare blood types can mitigate the risks of blood shortages in South Korea. The Korean Medical System Working to Improve Blood Donations The Korean medical system is actively working to improve access to blood donations for uncommon blood types. As of 2024, the medical system particularly wants to improve Rh-negative blood types and started a variety of strategies and initiatives. Here’s a look at the measures being taken based on recent research and initiatives in South Korea: National Blood Donation Campaigns The Korean Red Cross, which oversees blood donation in South Korea, conducts regular nationwide blood drives to encourage more donations. These campaigns specifically highlight the need for donations from individuals with rare blood types, including Rh-negative blood. These campaigns: You can even find a permanent Red Cross Donation Site near AK Plaza in Pyeongtaek. If you don’t speak Korean, you need a certified translator to go with you to donate blood. Special Blood Donation Programs for Rh-Negative Donors To address the scarcity of Rh-negative blood, Korea has implemented special programs to encourage Rh-negative individuals to donate regularly: Development of the Blood Information Management System (BIMS) The Blood Information Management System (BIMS) is an advanced digital system used by the Korean Red Cross and hospitals to track blood supply and demand across the country: Implementation Timeline While specific public records detailing the exact implementation date of BIMS are limited, the system has been gradually developed and enhanced over the past decade. Key milestones in its development include: These phases reflect ongoing efforts by the Korean Red Cross and other medical institutions to modernize blood management practices, leveraging technology to address challenges related to blood type shortages and emergency response. Key Features of BIMS Promoting Rare Blood Type Awareness The Korean medical system is working to raise awareness about rare blood types through: Collaboration with International Blood Networks South Korea has also explored collaborations with international blood banks and medical organizations to ensure a steady supply of rare blood types. This includes the Korean Red Cross regularly visiting US Military Bases for blood drives: If you have a rare blood type for Korea, PLEASE find a way to donate. Blood Storage Technology Improvements The Korean healthcare system has invested in improving blood storage technologies to ensure the long-term viability of rare blood supplies: Targeted Recruitment of Donors from Specific Communities In South Korea, certain foreign communities, particularly expatriates from Western countries, may have a higher proportion of Rh-negative blood types. To address this: Encouraging Repeat Donations and Tracking Donor Data The Korean Red Cross promotes repeat blood donations by developing relationships with donors who have rare blood types. This includes: Conclusion South Korea’s medical system is working comprehensively to improve access to blood donations for uncommon blood types, particularly Rh-negative types, by implementing public awareness campaigns, improving technology and systems for managing blood supplies, and collaborating with international networks. By focusing on education, convenience, and targeted outreach, the Korean healthcare system continues to enhance its ability to meet the demand for rare blood types in both routine and emergency medical situations. South of SeoulFounded in 2015, the South of Seoul team consists of volunteers on three continents working together to support English-speaking people traveling or living in South Korea. South of Seoul volunteers work with organizations and individuals across South Korea to improve equitable access to information across South Korea. Much of South of Seoul’s information focuses on Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Blogs published under the authorship of “South of Seoul” include blogs compiled by multiple volunteers to improve access to standardized information unrelated to individualized personal experiences. www.southofseoul.net

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Are you looking for postpartum care resources in Korea? Our volunteers have put together a list of resources to support English-speaking mothers who have recently given birth in South Korea. Listen to the BlogCast Don’t want to read? Listen to the South of Seoul BlogCast which provides accessible content through the use of AI technology. We don’t have time to read each article but we do our best to make more of our content accessible. If you would like to join our Accessibility Team apply to volunteer with South of Seoul. Please note that the pronunciation of some Korean words may be inaccurate due to AI technology’s limitations. About Postpartum Care Postpartum care is a critical and often challenging period, especially for those navigating motherhood in a foreign country. Understanding and accessing postpartum care resources is essential for a smooth and healthy recovery after childbirth. This blog post is dedicated to guiding you through the various postpartum care resources and services available in Korea. As our team diligently continues their research, we anticipate expanding this list. Should you have any additional suggestions or insights on postpartum care resources in Korea, please feel free to reach out to us at publichealth@southofseoul.net or connect with us on our Facebook page. 2022 SOS Public Health Maternal Health Research In 2022, SOS Public Health conducted a maternal health research study to learn about the English-speaking international community’s access to maternal health resources in Korea. The 2022 SOS Public Health Maternal Health survey (SOS PHMHS) revealed that 65% of respondents attended their first postpartum care visit within the first 3 weeks after giving birth, while the remaining respondents made their first visit 4+ weeks after giving birth. According to the Mayo Clinic, this time frame (first three weeks after giving birth) is the recommended time frame for the first postpartum care visit. Postpartum care is important because it allows individuals to watch for problems that may occur and to help them take care oftheir post-pregnancy body. As such, knowing where to go for postpartum care is just as important. Therefore, our SOS Public Health team has compiled a list of resources to access below. NOTE: Not all of the health centers listed below have English-speaking support. You may still need to utilize translation or interpretation services. The information below simply provides a list recommended by fellow community members who had positive experiences while using the services. Korean Terms to Know Knowing a few key maternal health terms in Korean may help navigating postpartum care a bit less stressful. Below are some terms you may see or hear in your search for postpartum care services. Postpartum Care in Bundang Below currently lists one community-recommended postpartum service located in Bundang. Cha University Bundang Medical Center Cha University Bundang Medical Center is located in Bundang. Their JCI-certified hospital offers postpartum care in multiple languages including English, Russian, Mongolian, and more. Learn more about their postpartcum care services on their website or by calling them. Postpartum Care in Gimhae Below currently lists one community-recommended postpartum service located in Gimhae. Morning Calm Birthing Services Morning Calm Birthing Services is a foreigner-owned registered childbirth service company based in Gimhae. They have full-time, certified doulas and childbirth educators who provide postpartum doula support in the Busan area. We recommend contacting this organization directly to learn more about their services and pricing. Postpartum Care in Pyeongtaek Below lists community-recommended postpartum services located in the Pyeongtaek area. Bestmom Pyeongtaek Anseong Branch Bestmom is located in Godeok-dong, Pyeongtaek. This branch offers postpartum care services in several areas of Pyeongtaek such as Songtan, Anjung, Seojeong-ri and even Anseong. Visit their website or call them to learn more about their services and pricing. Lahene Postpartum Care Center Lahene Postpartum Care Center is located in Hapjeong-dong, Pyeongtaek. They are a center that specializes in postpartum care. They do not have a website listed on their Naver profile, so we recommend calling the center to learn more about their services. Pyeongtaek St. Mary’s Hospital St. Mary’s Hospital is a general hospital located in Pyeongtaek. They offer an array of medical services including maternal health services. Additionally, St. Mary’s hospital has an international clinic available for those who need English language support. We recommend contacting this organization directly to learn more about their services. Yale Queens House Yale Queens House is a birth center that offers postpartum care services. Their website doesn’t have English translation so you may need to use the Google Translate plug in or Papago to access information from their site. Visit their website or call them to learn more about their services and pricing. Postpartum Care in Seoul Below lists community-recommended postpartum services located in the Seoul area. Dr. Sung’s Clinic Dr. Sung’s Clinic is located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. This clinic provide postnatal care. We recommend calling this clinic to learn more about their services and pricing as their website has limited information. Hatvit Women’s Hospital Hatvit (English pronunciation: [haet-bit]) Women’s Hospital is located in Gangbok-gu, Seoul. Google Translate or Papago may be needed to navigate Hatvit Women’s Hospital’s website. This hospital appears to offer postpartum support, but their website doesn’t have a lot of detail on what their postpartum care entails. We recommend calling this clinic to learn more about their services and pricing. Hosan Women’s Hospital Hosan Women’s Hospital is located in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. This clinic boasts that they are a ‘brand for women’ and have premium values from childbirth to diagnoses for women. Hosan has a postnatal care center where postpartum care is offered. We recommend calling the hospital to learn more about their services. Houm OBGYN & Birthing Center Houm OBGYN & Birthing Center is located in Seocho-gu, Seoul. This center provides patient-centered care for women of all ages according to their website. They offer an array of postpartum care support. Visit their website or call to learn more about their services. Yeon & Nature Yeon & Nature is located in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. This clinic offers postpartum care in their Kangaroo Care House. Their website lists information on how to contact their international manager, and they offer online counseling. Naver and Kakao Map Search If you need a location nearer to you, conducting a Naver or Kakao Map search for nearby postpartum care centers may be your best option. Keep in mind, Naver or Kakao Map searches will only provide you with the nearest locations. Such locations may not have international clinics or English speaking doctors and staff. However, resources (listed in the next section) are available to help you navigate language barriers. To search for maternal health clinics, hospitals and centers near you, copy and paste the following into Naver or Kakao Maps: Additional Resources Below are a list of additional resources that may help you in your search for maternal health information and support. National Health Insurances Services (NHIS) For questions on postpartum care health insurance coverage, contact the NHIS directly. The NHIS has an English hotline. The NHIS may even be able to inform you of health centers or hospitals in your area that offer postpartum care services. Language Support Several language support options exist in Korea. Such resources include: Social Support Many folks find that reaching out to others online who have had similar experiences in their childbirth journey helpful. In the 2022 SOS PHMHS respondents reported that they utilized social groups most (84%) to find information on maternal health resources. Here are a few Facebook Groups to join to ask about maternal health or general health in Korea: Financial Support: The Happiness Card With Korea’s low birthrate, the government is actively seeking ways to support families, including providing financial aid. The National Happiness Card (국민행복카드 [goong-min-haeng-bok-cah-deu]) is available to all expectant mothers, regardless of nationality, provided they contribute to the National Health Insurance system. The amount offered on this card may vary from year to year, and can be utilized at hospitals and clinics for pregnancy-related appointments. Learn how to get a Happiness Card in Soul of Soul’s blog post: How To Get The National Happiness Card For Pregnant Women In Korea Additional Reading Check out the following blog posts to learn more about pregnancy and childbirth in Korea: Follow SOS Public Health for More Resources Follow us on Instagram or Facebook to stay updated on SOS Public Health Initiatives. If you have questions about healthcare in Korea, visit the Health and Wellness in Korea Facebook Group, or feel free to message SOS Public Health with any questions or concerns. Research Design & Implementation Team UX/UI Supervisor/Editor Research Team Lisa Peck, MPH, CPHMs. Peck graduated from the University of Utah Asia Campus (UAC) in Incheon with a Master’s in Public Health and her Certification in Public Health (CPH). Ms. Peck also holds a Bachelor’s Degrees in Linguistics and one in International Studies with a Global Health emphasis. Ms. Peck is Korean American and speaks both English and Korean. She has moved between the US and Korea since childhood, finally settling in Korea after graduating from UAC. In 2021 Ms. Peck founded the South of Seoul Public Health Program which focuses on research and initiatives regarding the health and wellness of multinational residents in South Korea. Additionally, Ms. Peck oversees the SOS Public Health Graduate Student Practicum Program which provides mentorship and training for Master’s in Public Health students. The program works with two students a semester with a focus on ethical UX research design, survey development, and initiative implementation. www.southofseoul.net

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Living in Korea and interested in prenatal care experiences and resources? This blog post shares data regarding the lived experiences of English-speaking residents with prenatal care while in South Korea. Additionally, it includes resources for those who need prenatal care support. Listen to the BlogCast Don’t want to read? Listen to the South of Seoul BlogCast which provides accessible content through the use of AI technology. We don’t have time to read each article but we do our best to make more of our content accessible. If you would like to join our Accessibility Team apply to volunteer with South of Seoul. Please note that the pronunciation of some Korean words may be inaccurate due to AI technology’s limitations. About Prenatal Care Prenatal care plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus. Regular prenatal visits allow healthcare providers to monitor the pregnancy and identify any potential problems before they become serious. However, navigating prenatal care in a new country can be challenging. This blog post offers a few prenatal care resources in Korea based on location. This list is not exhaustive. As our SOS Public Health volunteers continue to research, more resources may be added. Additionally, if you have useful information on prenatal care resources to add to this list, feel free to email publichealth@southofseoul.net or message us on our Facebook page. 2022 SOS Public Health Maternal Health Research In 2022, SOS Public Health conducted a maternal health research study to learn about the English-speaking international community’s access to maternal health resources in Korea. The 2022 SOS Public Health Maternal Health survey (SOS PHMHS) revealed that 100% of respondents sought prenatal care at some point during their pregnancy with the majority (70.4%) receiving care in their first trimester. Additionally, respondents reported prenatal care as one of the easiest resources to access in Korea. However, two top challenges that respondents reported regarding their access to maternal health resources included (1) language barrier and (2) cultural differences. Language barriers and cultural differences can be a big challenge in accessing crucial information and resources during pregnancy. As such, our SOS Public Health volunteers took to social media to ask English-speaking mothers in Korea about their preferred prenatal care centers. Below is a list of community-recommended health centers which provide prenatal care support. NOTE: Not all of the health centers listed below have English-speaking support. You may still need to utilize translation or interpretation services. The information below simply provides a list recommended by fellow community members who had positive experiences while using the services. Korean Terms to Know Knowing a few key maternal health terms in Korean may help navigating prenatal care a bit less stressful. Below are some terms you may see or hear in your search for prenatal care services. Prenatal Care in Gimhae Below currently lists one community-recommended prenatal service located in Gimhae. Morning Calm Birthing Services Morning Calm Birthing Services is a foreigner-owned registered childbirth service company based in Gimhae. They have full-time, certified doulas and childbirth educators who provide in-person and online prenatal care services. Prenatal Care in Pyeongtaek Below is a list of community-recommended prenatal services located in the Pyeongtaek area. Pyeongtaek St. Mary’s Hospital St. Mary’s Hospital is a general hospital located in Pyeongtaek. They offer an array of medical services including maternal health services. Additionally, St. Mary’s Hospital has an international clinic available for those who need English language support. Yale Queens House Yale Queens House is a birth center that offers prenatal checkups, prenatal birth defect screenings, and prenatal chromosome testing. Their website doesn’t have English translation so you may need to use the Google Translate plug-in or Papago to access information from their site. Prenatal Care in Seoul Below is a list of community-recommended prenatal services located in the Seoul area. Cha Gangnam Medical Center Cha Gangnam Medical Center is a university hospital located in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. They have an international clinic to aid in English language support. According to their website, Cha Gangnam Medical Center also has English-speaking, doctors, nurses, and coordinators. This hospital is known for its OBGYN and fertility center. Dr. Sung’s Clinic Dr. Sung’s Clinic is located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. This clinic provides prenatal check-ups, 3D ultrasounds, genetic testing, and prenatal classes. Hatvit Women’s Hospital Hatvit (English pronunciation: [haet-bit]) Women’s Hospital is located in Gangbok-gu, Seoul. Google Translate or Papago may be needed to navigate Hatvit Women’s Hospital’s website. This hospital offers an array of obstetric services. Houm OBGYN & Birthing Center Houm OBGYN & Birthing Center is located in Seocho-gu, Seoul. This center provides patient-centered care for women of all ages according to their website. They offers prenatal care services and have a prenatal care schedule break-down listed on their website in English. ITOB ITOB is located in Seocho-gu, Seoul. This clinic offers a comprehensive prenatal check-up. Google Translate or Papago may be needed to navigate their website. Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital is located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. This hospital has an obstetrics and gynecology department which includes prenatal services. They also have an international clinic with English language services. Yeon & Nature Yeon & Nature is located in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. This clinic offers obstetrics and gynecology services which include pre-birth care. Their website lists information on how to contact their international manager, and they offer online counseling. Naver or Kakao Map Search If you need a location nearer to you, conducting a Naver or Kakao Map search for nearby obstetrics and gynecology centers may be your best option. Keep in mind, Naver or Kakao Map searches will only provide you with the nearest locations. Such locations may not have international clinics or English-speaking doctors and staff. However, resources (listed in the next section) are available to help you navigate language barriers. To search for maternal health clinics, hospitals, and centers near you, copy and paste the following into Naver or Kakao Maps: Additional Resources Below is a list of additional resources that may help you in your search for maternal health information and support. National Health Insurance Services (NHIS) For questions on prenatal care health insurance coverage, contact the NHIS directly. The NHIS has an English hotline. The NHIS may even be able to inform you of health centers or hospitals in your area that offer prenatal care services. Language Support Several language support options exist in Korea. Such resources include: Social Support Many folks find that reaching out to others online who have had similar experiences in their prenatal care journey helpful. In the 2022 SOS PHMHS respondents reported that they utilized social groups most (84%) to find information on maternal health resources. Here are a few Facebook Groups to join to ask about maternal health or general health in Korea: Financial Support: The Happiness Card With Korea’s low birthrate, the government is actively seeking ways to support families, including providing financial aid. The National Happiness Card (국민행복카드 [goong-min-haeng-bok-cah-deu]) is available to all expectant mothers, regardless of nationality, provided they contribute to the National Health Insurance system. The amount offered on this card may vary from year to year, and can be utilized at hospitals and clinics for pregnancy-related appointments. Learn how to get a Happiness Card in Soul of Soul’s blog post: How To Get The National Happiness Card For Pregnant Women In Korea Additional Reading Check out the following blog posts to learn more about pregnancy and childbirth in Korea: Follow SOS Public Health for More Resources Follow us on Instagram or Facebook to stay updated on SOS Public Health Initiatives. If you have questions about healthcare in Korea, visit the Health and Wellness in Korea Facebook Group, or feel free to message SOS Public Health with any questions or concerns. Lisa Peck, MPH, CPHMs. Peck graduated from the University of Utah Asia Campus (UAC) in Incheon with a Master’s in Public Health and her Certification in Public Health (CPH). Ms. Peck also holds a Bachelor’s Degrees in Linguistics and one in International Studies with a Global Health emphasis. Ms. Peck is Korean American and speaks both English and Korean. She has moved between the US and Korea since childhood, finally settling in Korea after graduating from UAC. In 2021 Ms. Peck founded the South of Seoul Public Health Program which focuses on research and initiatives regarding the health and wellness of multinational residents in South Korea. Additionally, Ms. Peck oversees the SOS Public Health Graduate Student Practicum Program which provides mentorship and training for Master’s in Public Health students. The program works with two students a semester with a focus on ethical UX research design, survey development, and initiative implementation. www.southofseoul.net

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Are you looking for childbirth resources in Korea? Our volunteers have put together a list of resources to support English-speaking expectant mothers in South Korea. Listen to the BlogCast Don’t want to read? Listen to the South of Seoul BlogCast which provides accessible content through the use of AI technology. We don’t have time to read each article but we do our best to make more of our content accessible. If you would like to join our Accessibility Team apply to volunteer with South of Seoul. Please note that the pronunciation of some Korean words may be inaccurate due to AI technology’s limitations. About Childbirth The experience of childbirth may come with a mixture of feelings such as excitement and anxiety, especially for anyone living in a foreign country. Understanding and accessing childbirth resources is crucial for a comfortable and safe delivery experience. This blog post aims to provide you with various childbirth-related resources and information available in Korea. As our dedicated team continues its research, expect this list to grow, and if you have suggestions, please reach out at publichealth@southofseoul.net or via our Facebook page. The following blog post includes 1) information regarding women’s experiences with childbirth in South Korea and 2) resources for women who plan to give birth in South Korea. 2022 SOS Public Health Maternal Health Research In 2022, SOS Public Health conducted a maternal health research study to learn about the English-speaking international community’s access to maternal health resources in Korea. The 2022 SOS Public Health Maternal Health survey (SOS PHMHS) revealed that respondents utilized various types of medical facilities- with Specialized Maternity Clinics (52.8%) and Private Hospitals (22.2%) being utilized most- for childbirth in Korea as shown in the figure below. Additionally, the 2022 SOS PHMHS surveyed respondents’ preferred childbirth delivery method in Korea. The majority (76.4%) reported a preference for natural childbirth, while a smaller percentage preferred methods such as assisted vaginal delivery (12.5%) and scheduled C-section (8.3%). Two top challenges that respondents reported regarding their access to maternal health resources included (1) language barrier and (2) cultural differences. Language barriers and cultural differences can be a big challenge in accessing crucial information and resources during pregnancy. As such, our SOS Public Health volunteers took to social media to ask English-speaking mothers in Korea about their preferred child birthing centers. Below is a list of community-recommended health centers which provide childbirth support. Taking such information into account, our SOS Public Health team has compiled a list of hospitals and clinics that specialize in childbirth, some of which support specific types of childbirth delivery methods. NOTE: Not all of the health centers listed below have English-speaking support. You may still need to utilize translation or interpretation services. The information below simply provides a list recommended by fellow community members who had positive experiences while using the services. Korean Terms to Know Knowing a few key maternal health terms in Korean may help navigating childbirth in Korea a bit less stressful. Below are some terms you may see or hear in your search for childbirth services. Childbirth Services in Gwangmyeong Below currently lists one community-recommended childbirth service located in Gwangmyeong. GM Cheil Women’s Clinic GM Cheil Women’s Clinic is a birthing center located in Gwangmyeong (northern Gyeonggi-do area). This birthing center specializes in natural birthing. According to their website, they are staffed with an OBGYN, midwife, and hypno-birthing specialist. Additionally, their labor rooms provide a warm, home-like environment. Childbirth Services in Pyeongtaek Below is a list of community-recommended childbirth services located in the Pyeongtaek area. Pyeongtaek St. Mary’s Hospital St. Mary’s Hospital is a general hospital located in Pyeongtaek. They offer an array of medical services including childbirthing services. Additionally, St. Mary’s Hospital has an international clinic available for those who need English language support. This hospital’s website doesn’t specify a type of delivery method that they specialize in. We recommend calling the clinic to learn more about their services. Yale Queens House Yale Queens House is a birth center that offers birthing services. Their website doesn’t have English translation so you may need to use the Google Translate plug-in or Papago to access information from their site. According to their website, this birthing center offers ‘painless delivery’ through the use of an epidural. Epidurals are not required but are recommended at this clinic. This hospital’s website doesn’t specify a type of delivery method that they specialize in. We recommend calling the clinic to learn more about their services. Childbirth Services in Seoul Below is a list of community-recommended childbirth services located in the Seoul area. Cha Gangnam Medical Center Cha Gangnam Medical Center is a university hospital located in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. They have an international clinic to aid in English language support. According to their website, Cha Gangnam Medical Center also has English-speaking, doctors, nurses, and coordinators. This hospital is known for its OBGYN and fertility center. Their website doesn’t specify the type of birthing method they specialize in. We recommend calling the clinic to learn more about their services. Hatvit Women’s Hospital Hatvit (English pronunciation: [haet-bit]) Women’s Hospital is located in Gangbok-gu, Seoul. Google Translate or Papago may be needed to navigate Hatvit Women’s Hospital’s website. This hospital offers an array of obstetric services. According to their website, they offer a natural childbirth delivery method. We recommend calling the hospital to learn more about their services. Hosan Women’s Hospital Hosan Women’s Hospital is located in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. This clinic boasts that they are a ‘brand for women’ and has premium values from childbirth to diagnoses for women. Their website doesn’t specify the type of delivery method they specialize in. However, they do mention ‘painless delivery,’ similar to Yale Queens House. We recommend calling the hospital to learn more about their services. Houm OBGYN & Birthing Center Houm OBGYN & Birthing Center is located in Seocho-gu, Seoul. This center provides patient-centered care for women of all ages according to their website. They follow a “Mother & Baby – Integrated Care System (MB-ICS).” Learn more about MB-ICS on their webpage. Their site doesn’t specify the type of delivery method they specialize in. However, they do mention that the expecting mother has flexibility of choice in their birthing position during labor. We recommend calling the hospital to learn more about their services. ItoB ItoB is located in Seocho-gu, Seoul. This clinic offers child birthing services. Google Translate or Papago may be needed to navigate their website. This specialized maternal health clinic offers 3 delivery methods: (1) Leboyer’s Delivery Method, (2) Natural Birth Method, and (3) C-Section. We recommend calling the clinic to learn more about their services. Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital is located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. This hospital has an obstetrics and gynecology department which includes childbirthing services. They also have an international clinic with English language services. Their website doesn’t specify the type of delivery method they specialize in. We recommend calling the hospital to learn more about their services. Yeon & Nature Yeon & Nature is located in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. This clinic offers obstetrics and gynecology services which include childbirth services. Yeon & Nature offers natural birth delivery methods and boasts ‘your birth, your way” as one of the mottos listed on their webpage. They have English-speaking staff to assist with the expecting mother’s needs. We recommend calling the hospital to learn more about their services. Naver and Kakao Map Search If you need a location nearer to you, conducting a Naver or Kakao Map search for nearby obstetrics and gynecology centers may be your best option. Keep in mind, Naver or Kakao Map searches will only provide you with the nearest locations. Such locations may not have international clinics or English-speaking doctors and staff. However, resources (listed in the next section) are available to help you navigate language barriers. To search for maternal health clinics, hospitals, and centers near you, copy and paste the following into Naver or Kakao Maps: Additional Resources Below are a list of additional resources that may help you in your search for maternal health information and support. National Health Insurance Services (NHIS) For questions on childbirth health insurance coverage, contact the NHIS directly. The NHIS has an English hotline. The NHIS may even be able to inform you of health centers or hospitals in your area that offer childbirth services. Language Support Several language support options exist in Korea. Such resources include: Social Support Many folks find that reaching out to others online who have had similar experiences in their childbirth journey helpful. In the 2022 SOS PHMHS respondents reported that they utilized social groups most (84%) to find information on maternal health resources. Here are a few Facebook Groups to join to ask about maternal health or general health in Korea: Financial Support: The Happiness Card With Korea’s low birthrate, the government is actively seeking ways to support families, including providing financial aid. The National Happiness Card (국민행복카드 [goong-min-haeng-bok-cah-deu]) is available to all expectant mothers, regardless of nationality, provided they contribute to the National Health Insurance system. The amount offered on this card may vary from year to year, and can be utilized at hospitals and clinics for pregnancy-related appointments. Learn how to get a Happiness Card in Soul of Soul’s blog post: How To Get The National Happiness Card For Pregnant Women In Korea Additional Reading Check out the following blog posts to learn more about pregnancy and childbirth in Korea: Follow SOS Public Health for More Resources Follow us on Instagram or Facebook to stay updated on SOS Public Health Initiatives. If you have questions about healthcare in Korea, visit the Health and Wellness in Korea Facebook Group, or feel free to message SOS Public Health with any questions or concerns. Lisa Peck, MPH, CPHMs. Peck graduated from the University of Utah Asia Campus (UAC) in Incheon with a Master’s in Public Health and her Certification in Public Health (CPH). Ms. Peck also holds a Bachelor’s Degrees in Linguistics and one in International Studies with a Global Health emphasis. Ms. Peck is Korean American and speaks both English and Korean. She has moved between the US and Korea since childhood, finally settling in Korea after graduating from UAC. In 2021 Ms. Peck founded the South of Seoul Public Health Program which focuses on research and initiatives regarding the health and wellness of multinational residents in South Korea. Additionally, Ms. Peck oversees the SOS Public Health Graduate Student Practicum Program which provides mentorship and training for Master’s in Public Health students. The program works with two students a semester with a focus on ethical UX research design, survey development, and initiative implementation. www.southofseoul.net

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Would you like to know more about pregnancy and childbirth in South Korea? The following blog post provides a descriptive analysis of the data gathered in the SOS Public Health Maternal Health Survey (2022 SOS PHMHS) The following data may so such things as 1) provide support and information for people considering childbirth in South Korea, 2) support additional research into the lived pregnancy and childbirth experiences of international residents living in South Korea, and 3) contribute to a better understanding of how international residents experience pregnancy and childbirth in South Korea.

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In April of 2022, SOS Public Health launched the Maternal Health Initiative with a baseline survey to understand the experiences and needs of the English-speaking multinational maternal community in South Korea. This initial blog post about such a survey will explore the demographics of respondents in order to understand the diversity within the multinational community. Listen to the BlogCast Don’t want to read? Listen to the South of Seoul BlogCast which provides accessible content through the use of AI technology. We don’t have time to read each article but we do our best to make more of our content accessible. If you would like to join our Accessibility Team apply to volunteer with South of Seoul. Please note that the pronunciation of some Korean words may be inaccurate due to AI technology’s limitations. What is the Maternal Health Survey? In April 2022 SOS Public Health launched the Maternal Health Initiative aimed at the multinational community who experienced pregnancy and childbirth in South Korea. The purpose of the survey was to analyze the experiences of the community when accessing maternal health care information and resources in South Korea. In addition, the goal was to find any challenges or obstacles individuals face when searching for information on pregnancy and childbirth support. The results of this survey will provide a baseline and guidance for the SOS Public Health Maternal Health Initiative. Read more about this initiative here. Thank you to all the participants First of all, thank you to those who participated in the 2022 Maternal Health Survey. Such a survey may provide insight into maternal health needs within the English-speaking multinational community in South Korea. SOS Public Health will share the survey results in the upcoming weeks and months. The image below shows the number of participants based on administrative district in South Korea. Individuals from 15 of the 17 administrative districts in South Korea participated. The majority live in Seoul (28%), Gyeonggi-do (20%), and Incheon (10%). Having respondents from many different administrative districts in South Korea is an important part of the 2022 Maternal Health Survey. South Korea uses an agile form of governance with many public health and wellness programs managed locally within administrative districts. It’s important to understand how maternal health care occurs in all areas of Korea as it may not be the same in Seoul as it is in Jeju. Who participated in the 2022 Maternal Health Survey? The 2022 Maternal Health Survey had a strong turnout with 87 responses from individuals who have been pregnant or who have given birth in South Korea within the last five years. There was diversity in the responses, with respondents coming from 19 countries and living in 15 of the 17 administrative districts in Korea. Eighty-nine percent of respondents currently reside in South Korea, while just over 10% previously lived here. About one-fourth were pregnant at the time of the survey and more than 80% had previously given birth in South Korea. Respondents lived in South Korea for an average of 7 years and were, on average, 34 years old. Nationalities and Race/Ethnicity The 2022 Maternal Health Survey reflected the diversity of the multinational maternal community residing in South Korea. As shown in the chart below, respondents from 19 different countries across five continents participated in the Maternal Health Survey. The largest number of respondents came from the United States of America (55%). This was followed by the United Kingdom (~7%) and South Africa (~6%). This survey was only available in English, therefore a larger number of respondents from English-speaking countries was expected. This means that there are some nationalities that may be underrepresented in this survey due to the language barrier. Furthermore, a variety of races and ethnicities were represented in the survey. About 67% of respondents identified as white, followed by 10% who identified as mixed race. Additionally, respondents included those who identified as black or African American, Hispanic and Asian, such as Filipino, Indian, Vietnamese and Korean. Languages A variety of different languages are spoken according to the 2022 Maternal Health Survey. Because the survey was in English, all respondents speak at least some level of English. Almost 80% of respondents answered that English was one of their fluent languages. However, other fluent languages spoken totaled 18 among respondents. Socioeconomic Status The 2022 Maternal Health Survey showed that respondents held one of 12 different visas. Almost half of the respondents reported holding an F-6 visa (Spouse of Korean National) followed by the A-3 visa (Military affiliated; 11%), and F-3 Visa (family dependents; 10%). The majority of respondents held a Bachelor’s degree (47%) or a Master’s degree (38%). And the majority of household income was between 25,000,000 KRW – 49,999,999 (29%), and 50,000,000 – 99,999,999 KRW (41%) Experiences The demographics of the SOS Maternal Health survey reflected a certain level of diversity within the multinational community in South Korea. Such information may infer how different the experiences related to maternal health care may be due to the many different cultural backgrounds. Using these demographics, SOS Public Health will delve deeper into the experiences reported by survey respondents in accessing maternal health care information and resources. Such research will allow SOS Public Health to compile information on possible resources and information on navigating pregnancy and childbirth in South Korea. Follow SOS Public Health for more resources Follow us on Instagram or Facebook to stay updated on SOS Public Health Initiatives. If you have questions about healthcare in Korea visit the Health and Wellness in Korea Facebook Group or feel free to message SOS Public Health with any questions or concerns. Apply for an SOS Public Health Practicum Opportunity Are you a graduate student looking for practical experience in public health? Apply for a an SOS Public Health Practicum! Click below to learn more about the SOS Public Health Practicum Program. Research Design & Implementation Team Survey UX/UI Supervisor & Editor Research Compliance Supervisor & Editor Primary Researcher & Author Denise Feurer, MSc PHDenise Feurer holds a Master’s of Science in Public Health and a Bachelor’s in Nursing. Ms. Feurer is a public health researcher and advisor living and working in South Korea. Mrs. Feurer founded the Maternal Health Initiative for the South of Seoul Public Health Program in 2021. Her first research project or SOS Public Health launched in 2022. Prior to joining the South of Seoul Public Health Program, Ms. Feurer volunteered for the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine’s (LSHTM) award-winning endeavor, the “Rapid Data Project”, to code and organize worldwide Covid-19 policies for WHO decision makers, student ambassador program representative, and UK Model WHO Academy.

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Want to support improvements in information related to the maternal health of international residents living in South Korea? Take the SOS Public Health Maternal Health Survey. This blog will tell you how.

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South of Seoul Public Health is starting a new initiative: Maternal and Child Health. This initiative aims to research and improve access to maternal healthcare information for the multinational community living in South

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