“Where can I get tested if I’m concerned about STDs and AIDS?”

What is World AIDS Day?

Last December 1st was 'World AIDS Day'. For this reason, campaigns were carried out all over Korea to provide correct information about AIDS and eliminate prejudice and discrimination against those infected. AIDS refers to a state in which the immune system is weakened due to infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It is not transmitted through casual contact, and infection can be prevented through safe sex.

In the early stages of AIDS infection, symptoms similar to a cold may appear, such as headache, fever, sore throat, and skin rash. Therefore, if infection is suspected, it is important to get tested for HIV 4 weeks after the suspected time.

How do I get tested for AIDS?

There are two ways for foreigners to get tested for AIDS in Korea. First, you can get tested through the ‘Foreigner AIDS Prevention Support Center.’

You can get tested in many areas, including Seoul and Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, but since they are not always available, you must call first. In particular, you can get tested for various STDs along with AIDS. You can get tested for free and you don't have to reveal who you are. It's good that you can get the results within 20 minutes of the test.

The second way is to get tested at a public health center nationwide. It’s free and anonymous, but communication is difficult outside of Korean, and it usually takes about a week to get the test results.

What is the Foreigner AIDS Prevention Support Center?

The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention operates the ‘Foreigner AIDS Prevention Support Center’ (www.khap.org). Located in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, the ‘Foreigner AIDS Prevention Support Center’ provides comprehensive AIDS-related services, including AIDS screening and counseling, for foreigners residing in Korea. It also provides various information about AIDS to foreigners and provides various support services to foreigners infected with AIDS or patients.

The ‘Foreigner AIDS Prevention Support Center’ is located in Seoul (1st floor, 209 Dongsomun-ro, Seongbuk-gu) and also has a testing facility in Ansan, Gyeonggi-do (4th floor, 15-1 Wongok-ro, Danwon-gu, Ansan-si), but it is not always open, so you must inquire by phone.

We also conduct inspections in major cities nationwide as needed. For inquiries, call 02-927-4322.

Mary Eve of Papaya Story