Do I have to join National Health Insurance, and why is it so expensive?

Yes, for most long-term residents. If you work for an employer covered by NHI, you join through work; otherwise NHIS enrolls you automatically after 6 months in Korea. It feels expensive because, for most statuses, if your regional premium (based on income and property) comes out below the average premium, you pay the average. What to do 1. Employed? Your premium is based on your wage, and you and your employer each pay half. 2. Not employed? No application is needed. Some statuses, for example D-2 students and marriage migrants, are covered from entry; NHIS can tell you if yours is. 3. Pay each bill by its due date. Unpaid premiums can stop your benefits, and immigration may limit your stay extension until you pay. 4. Lost your job? Ask NHIS soon about voluntary continuation, which lets eligible former employees keep employee-subscriber status for a limited time. There's an application deadline. 5. Covered by foreign law, foreign insurance or an employer contract? Ask NHIS about applying to be excluded. Good to know • Check the current average premium with NHIS. Some students get a premium reduction. Official sources • NHIS, Guidance for foreigners: https://www.nhis.or.kr/english/wbheaa02900m01.do • NHIS FAQ, base premium for foreigners (Korean): https://www.nhis.or.kr/nhis/minwon/wbhaba03600m01.do?mode=view&articleNo=11003152 This is general information, not legal advice. Your case may differ, so ask NHIS (1577-1000, English 033-811-2000) if unsure. Checked by the Verihood team on October 3, 2026. Rules and fees change, so confirm with the official source before you act.