iving in Daejeon as a foreigner is comfortable in many ways — but when it comes to visiting a hospital, language can still be a concern.
Thankfully, several hospitals in Daejeon are increasingly welcoming to foreign patients, with English-speaking staff or international centers.
Here are some of the best options if you’re looking for English-friendly medical care in Daejeon.
1. Chungnam National University Hospital (CNUH)
- Location: 282 Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon
- Website: https://www.cnuh.co.kr/eng/index.do
- Departments: General medicine, surgery, internal medicine, ENT, etc.
- Language Support: Some English-speaking staff, interpreter service upon request
- Notes: As a national university hospital, CNUH is well-equipped and has a solid reputation for quality care. Contact in advance to request English support.
2. Daejeon St. Mary’s Hospital (Catholic University of Korea)
- Location: 64 Daeheung-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon
- Website: https://www.cmc.or.kr/en.main.main.sp
- Departments: Pediatrics, internal medicine, dermatology, OB/GYN, surgery
- Language Support: Limited English, but helpful staff
- Notes: Known for friendly service and organized patient flow. Some departments may have English-speaking doctors.
3. Eulji University Hospital
- Location: 95 Dunsanseo-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon
- Website: https://www.emc.ac.kr/eng/index.jsp
- Departments: Full range including neurology, orthopedics, cardiology
- Language Support: Limited English support, depending on department
- Notes: One of the larger hospitals in the city. Recommended for long-term residents. Bringing a Korean-speaking friend is helpful for first-time visits.
4. Daejeon Sun Hospital
- Location: 29 Hanbat-daero 570beon-gil, Seo-gu, Daejeon
- Website: https://en.sunmedical.kr/
- Departments: Orthopedics, internal medicine, general surgery
- Language Support: Some English in international clinic (call to confirm)
- Notes: Relatively smaller but well-staffed. Good for outpatient visits and basic diagnostics.
Tips for Visiting a Hospital in Daejeon
- Call ahead: Ask if an English-speaking doctor or translator is available, especially for your department.
- Bring your ARC and insurance: Korean National Health Insurance greatly reduces costs. Some hospitals also accept private/travel insurance.
- Online reservations: These are not always English-enabled. If you’re unsure, visit in person or call first.
- Interpreter services: Not guaranteed, but some hospitals can arrange them if requested in advance.
When one of my friend first visited a hospital in Daejeon, He was nervous about communication. But most staff were kind and willing to help, and with a little patience (and maybe Papago in hand), things worked out.
