Gonorrhea in Korea – Symptoms, Testing, and Treatment Options

What Is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can infect the genitals, rectum, throat, and eyes, making it one of the most versatile and potentially serious STIs.

Common Symptoms

Gonorrhea can present differently in men and women. Some people experience no symptoms at all.

In men:

• Burning during urination
• White, yellow, or green penile discharge
• Pain or swelling in one testicle

In women:

• Increased vaginal discharge
• Painful urination
• Pelvic pain or bleeding between periods

In both sexes:

• Rectal pain or discharge (if infected anally)
• Sore throat (if infected orally)

Testing for Gonorrhea in Korea

Testing is simple and available at most urology, gynecology, and general STD clinics in Korea. Clinics in Gangnam, Itaewon, and other major areas offer confidential services for both locals and foreigners.

How it's tested:

• Urine sample
• Swab of the affected area (genitals, throat, or rectum)
• Results typically available within 24–48 hours

Gonorrhea Treatment in Korea

Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics. Due to growing antibiotic resistance, dual therapy is often used.

Standard treatment includes:

• Ceftriaxone (injection)
• Azithromycin (oral dose, in some cases)

You should avoid sexual contact for at least 7 days after treatment, and any recent partners should also be tested and treated.

Why It’s Important to Treat Gonorrhea Early

If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to:

• Infertility
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
• Epididymitis in men
• Increased risk of HIV transmission
• Joint and organ infections (in rare, advanced cases)

Where to Go for Care

Clinics like Trueman Urology Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, offer fast, discreet gonorrhea testing and same-day treatment. English-speaking staff, walk-in options, and private consultations make it a top choice for international patients.

Protect your health and your partners—get tested and treated early. Gonorrhea is common, but with the right care, it's 100% curable.

What Is HPV?

HPV is a viral infection spread through skin-to-skin contact, most often during sexual activity. There are over 100 types of HPV. Some types cause harmless warts, while others are linked to cervical, anal, penile, and throat cancers.

Common Symptoms

Most people don’t know they have HPV. But when symptoms appear, they may include:

• Small, flesh-colored bumps or clusters in the genital area
• Itching or irritation
• In women: abnormal Pap smear results

Remember: No visible symptoms doesn't mean you're virus-free. Regular testing is key.

HPV Testing in Gangnam

Many Gangnam clinics offer:

• Visual exam for genital warts
• Pap smear and HPV DNA testing (for women)
• Anal Pap testing (if needed)

For men, diagnosis is typically made through visual inspection or biopsy if warts are present.

HPV Treatment Options

There is no cure for the HPV virus itself, but visible symptoms like genital warts can be treated effectively. Treatment options include:

• Cryotherapy (freezing)
• Topical creams
• Laser or electrosurgical removal

High-risk strains (the ones linked to cancer) are monitored through regular check-ups and Pap tests.

Prevention: The HPV Vaccine

In Korea, the HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) is available at most Gangnam clinics. It’s recommended for:

• Girls and boys aged 11–26
• Adults up to 45 (case-by-case basis)
• Anyone seeking to reduce cancer and wart risk

Where to Go in Gangnam

Foreigner-friendly clinics in Gangnam, such as urology and dermatology centers, offer:

• Discreet testing
• English-speaking staff
• Same-day treatment plans

If you're concerned about HPV or genital warts, don’t wait. Early detection and care can prevent long-term complications.