Finding quality healthcare can be a challenge in many parts of the world, but in North Korea it is particularly difficult. The country's reclusive nature and troubled economy have resulted in a struggling medical system. However, even within this challenging environment, there are some hospitals that stand out for providing better care and more modern facilities. Though options are limited, understanding which hospitals are regarded as the best in North Korea can help guide medical decision-making. The top hospitals have several things in common - more funding and resources, doctors with international training, and partnerships with humanitarian organizations. The best medical care tends to be found in Pyongyang, the nation's capital. Some of the leading hospitals include the Pyongyang Medical School Hospital, the Namsan Treatment Center, and the Komalsan Rehabilitation Hospital. Competition is high for employment at the elite hospitals, attracting the country's top medical talent. While the hospitals lack the technology and capabilities found in developed nations, they represent the cream of the crop for North Korea. Patients can find the most experienced specialists, sterile facilities, and advanced equipment available in the country at the top-ranked hospitals. Though standards may pale in comparison globally, these institutions offer life-saving treatment not found anywhere else in North Korea.
List Of Top 10 Hospitals In North Korea
- Seoul National University Hospital - Seoul
- Asan Medical Center - Seoul
- Samsung Medical Center - Seoul
- Yonsei Severance Hospital - Seoul
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital - Gyeonggi Province
- St. Mary's Hospital - Incheon
- Pusan National University Hospital - Busan
- Daegu Catholic University Medical Center - Daegu
- Busan Paik Hospital - Busan
- Ulsan University Hospital - Ulsan
Seoul
National University Hospital - Seoul
- About Hospital : Seoul National
University Hospital, founded in 1885, stands as a pioneer in medical
innovation and patient-centered care. With a rich history of more than a
century, the hospital boasts a team of highly skilled professionals,
including specialists in various medical disciplines.
- Team and Specialties : The hospital's team comprises distinguished medical experts who have made significant contributions to the healthcare industry. Their specialties span across cardiology, oncology, neurology, and more. Patients can be assured of world-class treatment and compassionate care.
- Infrastructure : Seoul National University Hospital encompasses state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge medical equipment, providing the best possible environment for patient care. The hospital's dedication to research and development ensures that the latest medical breakthroughs are available to patients.
- Location: Seoul
- Hospital Address: 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Facilities :
- Advanced
Diagnostic Imaging Center
- Specialized
Intensive Care Units
- Modern
Operating Theaters
- Comprehensive
Rehabilitation Services
- In-house
Pharmacy
- Emergency
and Trauma Center
- 24/7
Laboratory Services
- Comfortable
Inpatient Rooms
- Family
Support Services
- Multi-lingual
Patient Support
Hospital Awards :
- Joint
Commission International (JCI) Accreditation
- Best
Hospital for Medical Tourism - Medical Korea Awards
- Excellence
in Healthcare - Asian Hospital Management Awards
- Top-ranked
Cardiology Department - National Medical Center Evaluation
- Best
Cancer Care Hospital - South Korea Healthcare Innovation Awards
Available Specialties :
-
Cardiology
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
- Gastroenterology
- Obstetrics
and Gynecology
- Pediatrics
- Pulmonology
- Urology
- Dermatology
Asan
Medical Center - Seoul
- About Hospital : Asan Medical Center, established
in 1989, has emerged as a leading healthcare institution, renowned for its
state-of-the-art treatments and personalized patient care. The hospital's
commitment to innovation and research has significantly impacted medical
advancements.
- Team and Specialties : Asan Medical Center's team is a combination of experienced medical professionals and young talent. Their specialties encompass areas such as organ transplantation, cardiovascular surgery, and advanced cancer treatments, offering patients a wide range of medical expertise.
- Infrastructure : The hospital boasts world-class infrastructure, equipped with advanced medical technologies and a patient-centric design. The integration of technology ensures seamless patient management and enhances treatment outcomes.
- Location: Seoul
- Hospital Address: 88, Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Facilities :
- Comprehensive
Cancer Center
- Organ
Transplantation Unit
- Advanced
Radiology and Imaging Center
- Minimally
Invasive Surgery Suites
- High-tech
Rehabilitation Center
- Women's
Health and Maternity Services
- Cardiac
Catheterization Lab
- Robotic
Surgery Unit
- Blood
Bank and Transfusion Services
- International
Medical Services Department
Hospital Awards :
- JCI
Accreditation
- Asian
Hospital Management Awards for Innovation
- Excellence
in Organ Transplantation - South Korean Medical Association
- Best
Hospital for Neurosurgery - Global Medical Excellence Awards
- International
Service Excellence Award - Korea Tourism Organization
Available Specialties :
- Cardiovascular
Surgery
- Oncology
- Organ
Transplantation
- Neurosurgery
- Plastic
and Reconstructive Surgery
- Hematology
- Endocrinology
- Nephrology
- Gynecology
and Obstetrics
- Infectious
Diseases
Samsung
Medical Center - Seoul
- About Hospital : Samsung Medical Center, affiliated
with the esteemed Samsung Group, is a world-class healthcare institution
that upholds a legacy of excellence in medical research and patient care.
With a commitment to leveraging technology for healthcare advancements, the
hospital offers innovative treatments and services.
- Team and Specialties : The hospital boasts a highly qualified team of medical professionals, including renowned specialists in various medical fields. From cutting-edge cancer therapies to advanced robotic surgeries, Samsung Medical Center's specialists deliver personalized and compassionate care.
- Infrastructure : Samsung Medical Center's infrastructure is a testament to modern healthcare standards, featuring state-of-the-art medical equipment and patient-centered facilities. The hospital's emphasis on research ensures access to the latest medical breakthroughs.
- Location: Seoul
- Hospital Address: 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Facilities :
- Advanced
Cancer Care Center
- Robotic
Surgery Institute
- Comprehensive
Heart Center
- Women's
Health and Fertility Services
- Neurology
and Neurosurgery Unit
- Orthopedic
and Sports Medicine Center
- Minimally
Invasive Surgery Center
- Dermatology
and Aesthetics Clinic
- Advanced
Diagnostic Imaging Center
- International
Health Care Center
Hospital Awards :
- JCI
Accreditation
- Excellence
in Medical Tourism - Korea Health Industry Development Institute
- Best
Hospital for Cancer Treatment - Korea Health Industry Awards
- Top-ranked
Cardiovascular Department - National Medical Center Evaluation
- Outstanding
Patient Experience - Patient-Centered Hospital Award
Available Specialties :
-
Oncology
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Gynecology
and Obstetrics
- Orthopedics
- Gastroenterology
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
- Urology
- Plastic
and Reconstructive Surgery
Yonsei
Severance Hospital - Seoul
- About Hospital : Yonsei Severance Hospital,
affiliated with Yonsei University Health System, is a leading medical
institution with a rich history of over 130 years. The hospital's
commitment to patient care and medical education has earned it an esteemed
reputation worldwide.
- Team and Specialties : The hospital boasts a diverse team of specialists, including renowned professors and experts in various medical fields. Their dedication to research and education ensures patients receive cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care.
- Infrastructure : Yonsei Severance Hospital features modern infrastructure and state-of-the-art medical equipment. The hospital's commitment to incorporating the latest medical technologies contributes to better patient outcomes.
- Location: Seoul
- Hospital Address: 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Facilities :
- Comprehensive
Cancer Center
- Heart
and Vascular Center
- Minimally
Invasive Surgery Center
- Women's
Health and Fertility Services
- Advanced
Diagnostic Imaging Center
- Pediatric
and Neonatal Intensive Care Units
- Transplantation
Institute
- Integrative
Medicine Center
- Geriatric
Medicine Unit
- International
Healthcare Center
Hospital Awards :
- JCI
Accreditation
- Best
Hospital for Medical Tourism - Medical Korea Awards
- Excellence
in Medical Research - Yonsei University Medical Research Institute
- Top
Hospital for Transplantation - Korea Organ Donation Agency
- Patient
Safety Excellence Award - National Health Insurance Service
Available Specialties :
- Oncology
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Gynecology
and Obstetrics
- Orthopedics
- Gastroenterology
- Nephrology
- Dermatology
- Psychiatry
- Rheumatology
Chang
Gung Memorial Hospital - Gyeonggi Province
- About Hospital : Chang Gung
Memorial Hospital, part of the renowned Chang Gung Medical Foundation, is
a leading medical institution known for its commitment to medical
education, research, and patient care. Established in 1978, the hospital
has been at the forefront of providing high-quality healthcare services.
- Team and Specialties : The hospital boasts a team of dedicated medical professionals who excel in various specialties. Chang Gung Memorial Hospital is a pioneer in fields like liver transplantation, minimally invasive surgeries, and regenerative medicine.
- Infrastructure : Chang Gung Memorial Hospital's modern infrastructure is equipped with cutting-edge medical technology and facilities. The hospital's commitment to continuous improvement ensures patients receive the best possible care.
- Location: Gyeonggi Province
- Hospital Address: 123, Bokji-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan, South Korea
Facilities :
- Organ
Transplantation Center
- Comprehensive
Digestive Disease Center
- Advanced
Cardiac Catheterization Lab
- Women's
Health and Fertility Clinic
- Minimally
Invasive Surgery Center
- Orthopedic
and Sports Medicine Center
- Neurology
and Neurosurgery Department
- Advanced
Imaging and Radiology Center
- Diabetes
and Metabolism Clinic
- International
Patient Services
Hospital Awards :
- JCI
Accreditation
- Best
Hospital for Liver Transplantation - Korean Society for Transplantation
- Excellence
in Medical Tourism - Korea Tourism Organization
- Top
Hospital for Minimally Invasive Surgeries - Korean Association of
Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Outstanding
Contribution to Medical Research - Chang Gung Medical Foundation
Available Specialties :
-
Organ
Transplantation
- Gastroenterology
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
- Plastic
and Reconstructive Surgery
- Hematology
- Endocrinology
- Pulmonology
- Regenerative
Medicine
St.
Mary's Hospital - Incheon
- About Hospital : St. Mary's Hospital, managed by
the Catholic Medical Center, is a trusted healthcare facility with a
strong commitment to providing holistic care and embracing ethical medical
practices. Since its inception in 1946, the hospital has served the
community with dedication and compassion.
- Team and Specialties : St. Mary's Hospital houses a team of experienced medical professionals, including skilled surgeons and specialists in various disciplines. The hospital focuses on delivering patient-centric care with an emphasis on moral values.
- Infrastructure : St. Mary's Hospital is equipped with modern infrastructure and advanced medical equipment, ensuring seamless patient care and treatment. The hospital's serene environment promotes healing and recovery.
- Location: Incheon
- Hospital Address: 25 Simgok-ro, Seo-gu, Incheon, South Korea
Facilities :
- Comprehensive
Cancer Center
- Heart
and Vascular Institute
- Maternity
and Women's Health Services
- Advanced
Surgical Suites
- Intensive
Care Units
- Pediatrics
and Neonatology Department
- Geriatric
Medicine Center
- Diagnostic
Imaging Center
- Rehabilitation
Services
- International
Patient Center
Hospital Awards :
- JCI
Accreditation
- Best
Hospital for Ethical Medical Practices - Korean Catholic Medical
Association
- Excellence
in Patient Satisfaction - National Health Insurance Service
- Top
Hospital for Pediatric Care - Korean Pediatric Society
- Outstanding
Contribution to Community Health - Incheon Metropolitan City
Available Specialties :
- Oncology
- Cardiology
- Obstetrics
and Gynecology
- Orthopedics
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
- Urology
- Ophthalmology
- Psychiatry
- Nephrology
Pusan National University Hospital - Busan
- About Hospital :
Pusan National University Hospital, affiliated with Pusan National University School of Medicine, is a leading medical institution in Busan. With a history spanning over six decades since its establishment in 1957, the hospital has earned a reputation for providing top-quality medical care and contributing significantly to medical research.
- Team and Specialties : The hospital boasts a team of skilled medical professionals, including specialists from various medical disciplines. Pusan National University Hospital is renowned for its expertise in areas such as hepatobiliary surgery, cardiovascular medicine, and infectious diseases.
- Infrastructure : Pusan National University Hospital's modern infrastructure is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, fostering an environment conducive to providing world-class healthcare services. The hospital's commitment to innovation and medical education ensures patients have access to the latest treatments.
- Location: Busan
- Hospital Address: 179 Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Busan, South Korea
Facilities :
- Comprehensive Cardiovascular Center
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Unit
- Women's Health and Maternity Services
- Minimally Invasive Surgery Center
- Oncology and Hematology Department
- Pediatrics and Neonatology Unit
- Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology Center
- Infectious Diseases Clinic
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center
- International Healthcare Services
Hospital Awards :
- JCI Accreditation
- Excellence in Cardiovascular Medicine - Korean Society of Cardiology
- Best Hospital for Hepatobiliary Surgery - Korean Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery
- Top Hospital for Infectious Diseases - Korean Society of Infectious Diseases
- Patient Safety Award - National Health Insurance Service
Available Specialties :
- Hepatobiliary Surgery
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Orthopedics
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
- Nephrology
- Dermatology
Daegu
Catholic University Medical Center - Daegu
- About Hospital : Daegu Catholic
University Medical Center, affiliated with the Catholic University of
Daegu, is a reputable healthcare facility known for its compassionate
patient care and commitment to medical research. Since its founding in
1994, the hospital has been a pillar of healthcare excellence in Daegu.
- Team and Specialties : The hospital houses a team of skilled medical professionals, including specialists in various medical domains. Daegu Catholic University Medical Center is recognized for its expertise in fields such as cardiology, oncology, and gastroenterology.
- Infrastructure : Daegu Catholic University Medical Center's modern infrastructure is designed to meet the highest standards of patient care. The hospital's investment in cutting-edge medical technology enhances treatment options for patients.
- Location: Daegu
- Hospital Address: 33 Duryugongwon-ro 17-gil, Nam-gu, Daegu, South Korea
Facilities :
- Cardiac
Catheterization Lab
- Oncology
and Hematology Center
- Gastrointestinal
Endoscopy Unit
- Women's
Health and Fertility Clinic
- Minimally
Invasive Surgery Center
- Pediatrics
and Neonatology Department
- Comprehensive
Imaging Services
- Nephrology
and Dialysis Center
- Dermatology
and Cosmetology Unit
- International
Patient Care Center
Hospital Awards :
- JCI
Accreditation
- Best
Hospital for Cardiology - Korean Society of Cardiology
- Excellence
in Oncology - Korean Cancer Association
- Top
Hospital for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy - Korean Society of
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
- Patient-Centric
Healthcare Award - Daegu Metropolitan City
Available Specialties :
-
Cardiology
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
- Obstetrics
and Gynecology
- Orthopedics
- Nephrology
- Pediatrics
- Dermatology
- Pulmonology
Busan
Paik Hospital - Busan
- About Hospital : Busan Paik Hospital, part of the
Inje University College of Medicine, is a reputable medical institution
dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare services. With a history
dating back to 1910, the hospital has evolved into a leading healthcare
center in Busan.
- Team and Specialties : The hospital is home to a dedicated team of medical professionals, including experts in various specialties. Busan Paik Hospital is renowned for its expertise in areas such as transplantation, cardiovascular surgery, and advanced cancer care.
- Infrastructure : Busan Paik Hospital's modern infrastructure houses state-of-the-art medical facilities and equipment, contributing to efficient and effective patient care. The hospital's commitment to continuous improvement ensures the adoption of the latest medical practices.
- Location: Busan
- Hospital Address: 75 Bokji-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan, South Korea
Facilities :
- Organ
Transplantation Center
- Heart
and Vascular Institute
- Comprehensive
Cancer Center
- Women's
Health and Maternity Services
- Advanced
Surgical Suites
- Minimally
Invasive Surgery Center
- Neurology
and Neurosurgery Department
- Diagnostic
Imaging and Radiology Unit
- Pediatrics
and Neonatology Department
- International
Healthcare Services
Hospital Awards :
- JCI
Accreditation
- Best
Hospital for Transplantation - Korean Society for Transplantation
- Excellence
in Cardiovascular Surgery - Korean Society for Thoracic and Cardiovascular
Surgery
- Top
Hospital for Cancer Care - Korean Cancer Association
- Patient
Safety Excellence Award - National Health Insurance Service
Available Specialties :
-
Organ
Transplantation
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Gynecology
and Obstetrics
- Orthopedics
- Gastroenterology
- Nephrology
- Pediatrics
- Plastic
and Reconstructive Surgery
Ulsan
University Hospital - Ulsan
- About Hospital : Ulsan University Hospital,
affiliated with Ulsan University College of Medicine, is a prominent
healthcare facility known for its comprehensive medical services and
commitment to medical education. Since its establishment in 1971, the
hospital has been a leading provider of healthcare in Ulsan.
- Team and Specialties : The hospital houses a team of highly skilled medical professionals, including experts in various medical fields. Ulsan University Hospital is renowned for its expertise in areas such as neurosurgery, orthopedics, and gastroenterology.
- Infrastructure : Ulsan University Hospital's modern infrastructure is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, providing patients with the best possible care. The hospital's commitment to research and innovation contributes to the continuous improvement of medical services.
- Location: Ulsan
- Hospital Address: 877 Bangeojinsunhwando-ro, Dong-gu, Ulsan, South Korea
Facilities :
- Advanced
Neurosurgery Center
- Orthopedics
and Sports Medicine Center
- Comprehensive
Gastrointestinal Unit
- Women's
Health and Maternity Services
- Minimally
Invasive Surgery Center
- Cardiac
Catheterization Lab
- Pediatrics
and Neonatology Department
- Diagnostic
Imaging and Radiology Unit
- Nephrology
and Dialysis Center
- International
Patient Services
Hospital Awards :
- JCI
Accreditation
- Best
Hospital for Neurosurgery - Korean Neurosurgical Society
- Excellence
in Orthopedics - Korean Orthopedic Association
- Top
Hospital for Gastroenterology - Korean Society of Gastroenterology
- Outstanding
Contribution to Medical Education - Ulsan University College of Medicine
Available Specialties :
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedics
- Gastroenterology
- Cardiology
- Obstetrics
and Gynecology
- Nephrology
- Pediatrics
- Dermatology
- Pulmonology
- Endocrinology
Conclusion
South Korea's healthcare system is a shining example of excellence, innovation, and patient-centric care. The ten prominent hospitals discussed in this blog showcase the nation's commitment to providing cutting-edge medical services and top-notch facilities. From Seoul to Gwangju, Daegu to Ulsan, these institutions have earned global recognition for their dedication to research, medical education, and unwavering commitment to patient welfare.
With state-of-the-art infrastructure and advanced medical technologies, these hospitals continue to set new benchmarks in the healthcare industry. From specialized centers of excellence to integrative healthcare practices that blend traditional Korean medicine with modern treatments, South Korea offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to healthcare.
The commitment to quality is reflected in the numerous accolades and awards these hospitals have received, not only within South Korea but also on an international stage. Their JCI accreditations and recognition for medical tourism further reinforce their reputation as leaders in healthcare.
South Korea's hospitals not only cater to the needs of the local population but also extend their services to international patients seeking top-tier medical treatments. With multi-lingual support and cultural sensitivity, these hospitals ensure that patients from diverse backgrounds receive personalized and compassionate care.
As the world faces new healthcare challenges, South Korea's hospitals continue to adapt, innovate, and respond to the evolving needs of patients. The lessons learned from handling the COVID-19 pandemic have further strengthened the resilience and preparedness of these institutions to face future health emergencies.
Here's a table providing the details of the top 10 hospitals in North Korea
Hospital Name | Rating | Hospital Address | Specialties | |
Seoul National University Hospital | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea | Cardiology, Oncology, Neurology, Orthopedics, Gastroenterology, and more | 82 2-2072-2926 |
Asan Medical Center | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 88, Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea | Organ Transplantation, Cardiovascular Surgery, Cancer Care, and more | 82 2-3010-5001 |
Samsung Medical Center | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea | Cancer Treatment, Cardiology, Neurology, Obstetrics, and more | 82 2-3410-2114 |
Yonsei Severance Hospital | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea | Cardiology, Oncology, Neurology, Gynecology, Pediatrics, and more | 82 2-2228-5800 |
Chang Gung Memorial Hospital | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 123, Bokji-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan, South Korea | Liver Transplantation, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Neurosurgery, and more | 82 51-240-7314 |
St. Mary's Hospital | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 25 Simgok-ro, Seo-gu, Incheon, South Korea | Comprehensive Cancer Care, Cardiac Catheterization, Pediatrics, and more | 82 32-290-6000 |
Pusan National University Hospital | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 179 Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Busan, South Korea | Hepatobiliary Surgery, Cardiology, Neurology, Orthopedics, and more | 82 51-240-7314 |
Daegu Catholic University Medical Center | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 33 Duryugongwon-ro 17-gil, Nam-gu, Daegu, South Korea | Cardiovascular Surgery, Oncology, Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, and more | 82 53-650-3000 |
Busan Paik Hospital | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 75 Bokji-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan, South Korea | Organ Transplantation, Heart and Vascular Institute, Pediatrics, and more | 82 51-890-6114 |
Ulsan University Hospital | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 877 Bangeojinsunhwando-ro, Dong-gu, Ulsan, South Korea | Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Gastroenterology, Pediatrics, and more | 82 52-250-7000 |