Clinical trials in South Korea
Explore clinical trials recruiting at leading hospitals across South Korea.
Clinical research in South Korea
South Korea is one of Asia's most active clinical research hubs, and Seoul is regularly ranked among the top cities in the world for the number of trials it hosts. Studies recruit at world-class institutions including Seoul National University Hospital, Asan Medical Center, Samsung Medical Center and Severance Hospital, as well as centres in Busan and other cities.
Clinical trials in South Korea are regulated by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, which authorises studies of new medicines, and every trial must be approved by an institutional review board before it begins. Korea's regulatory timelines are among the fastest in the region, which is one reason global sponsors run so many studies there.
Participants in Korean trials receive study-related care at no cost, benefit from advanced hospital infrastructure and close monitoring, and are protected by strict informed consent requirements. Research strengths include oncology, gastroenterology, cardiology, metabolic disease and early phase studies.
How trials are run in South Korea
Regulator
The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) authorises clinical trials of medicines.
Ethics oversight
Institutional review boards at each hospital approve and monitor every study.
Research strengths
Oncology, gastroenterology, cardiology, metabolic disease and early phase research.
Find a clinical trial in South Korea
Search studies by condition and location on our trial search platform. Searching and enquiring is free for patients.
Clinical trial questions in South Korea
No. Study-related treatment, tests and visits are provided at no cost to participants, and many studies reimburse travel or provide allowances approved by the institutional review board.
The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) authorises trials of new medicines, and every study must be approved and monitored by an institutional review board at the participating hospital.
Seoul hosts a large share of studies at institutions such as Seoul National University Hospital, Asan Medical Center, Samsung Medical Center and Severance Hospital, with further sites in Busan and other cities.
Search recruiting studies by condition on Clinrol and submit an enquiry. A study coordinator will pre-screen you against the eligibility criteria and take you through informed consent before you decide.
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The information on this page has been compiled from various sources and is provided for general informational purposes only. It may not be complete, current or applicable to your circumstances. It is not medical, legal or other professional advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional guidance. Consider your individual circumstances and risks, review the relevant official sources, and speak with your doctor or another appropriately qualified professional before making health-related decisions.