Medicines, insurance and health when travelling to Japan and South Korea: what official sources say

Before a couples' trip to East Asia, health is what people prepare least and what can cause the most trouble. This traveller-education guide summarises what the UK government's health advice (FCDO) says for Japan and South Korea, consulted on 7 November 2026. It does not replace advice from a doctor or the destination country's embassy, and it contains nothing explicit.

Japan: common medicines that can be illegal

Japan's anti-stimulant drug law makes carrying or using some everyday medicines illegal. The FCDO cites Vicks-type inhalers, certain allergy and sinus medicines, cold and flu remedies containing pseudoephedrine, and some over-the-counter painkillers containing codeine. Foreign nationals have been detained and deported for these offences, and ignorance of the law is no defence. Before you leave, check each medicine with the Japanese embassy in your country. Quantity limits and import permits are not covered on the FCDO page, so do not assume anything: ask.

South Korea: personal quantities and prescriptions

The FCDO says small amounts of medication for personal use are allowed if carried in your hand luggage. It recommends carrying an English-language prescription for both prescription and non-prescription medicines, and checking the website of Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety before travelling.

Insurance and costs

In both countries care is high quality but expensive. In Japan you should expect to pay the full cost, and facilities may check your insurance, which could delay treatment. In Korea, staff may not speak English. Take insurance that covers local treatment and unexpected medical evacuation, and if you are referred to a facility, contact your insurer quickly.

Emergencies

In Japan, 119 for an ambulance (and 110 for police). In South Korea, 119 for an ambulance. In both cases, keep your accommodation's address written in the local language.

Vaccines and sexual health

The FCDO recommends checking vaccine advice at least eight weeks before travel. Its Japan and Korea health pages do not cover sexual health; for that, talk to your doctor or a sexual health service before travelling and check the TravelHealthPro resources. Travelling couples should also carry their own medical and insurance contact details.

Sources

• GOV.UK, Foreign Travel Advice Japan: Health and Getting help.
• GOV.UK, Foreign Travel Advice South Korea: Health.