Importing Medication: how it works in South Korea — first-hand
Short answer
Carry prescription medications in their original packaging for personal use only, keeping quantities reasonable to avoid suspicion of distribution. It is highly recommended to carry a prescription, preferably translated into English, especially for controlled substances or psychotropic drugs.
From real experience
Bringing prescription medication, including antidepressants like sertraline, into South Korea may require prior authorization depending on the drug's classification.
While common over-the-counter medications and prescriptions for non-narcotic, non-psychotropic drugs are usually permitted with a valid prescription (preferably in English), certain controlled substances or psychotropic medications might need specific permits from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) or similar authorities. It is crucial to verify the specific requirements for your medication with official Korean government sources or the embassy before travel.
✓ 1 report from chats
When bringing medication to South Korea, non-narcotic and non-psychotropic drugs can generally be carried in hand luggage or checked baggage.
It is recommended to keep medications in their original packaging or blister packs, rather than loose. While prescriptions and translations may be helpful for controlled substances, common over-the-counter medications like aspirin or ibuprofen are usually not problematic in reasonable personal quantities, even without original boxes. Avoid bringing large quantities that might suggest distribution.
✓ 1 report from chats
When traveling to South Korea, it is generally not mandatory to bring prescriptions for common medications.
However, for controlled substances like neuroleptics and normothymics, it is highly recommended to carry a prescription, preferably translated into English. This can help clarify the purpose of the medication to customs officials if questioned.
✓ 1 report from chats
When bringing prescription medication into South Korea, it is generally permitted only for personal use.
If the prescription is for another individual, customs may deny entry. The control of baggage weight and size is determined by the airline. Small quantities of medication in hand luggage are usually allowed, provided they are not liquids.
✓ 1 report from chats
Travelers bringing personal medication (e.g., antidepressants like Escitalopram) to South Korea should carry the original prescription.
While rarely checked for small amounts, having the prescription (ideally with an English translation) is a recommended best practice.