S. Korea to Require Negative COVID-19 Result for Arrivals from the Philippines

The negative COVID-19 PCR test result must have been issued by a designated hospital within 48 hours before the departure flight.

Highlights

Starting July 20, all Filipinos and foreigners in the Philippines (including transfer passengers) who will travel to or transit in South Korea must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result.
The document must have been obtained from a designated hospital within 48 hours before the flight.
South Korea’s health authorities announced on July 10 that a negative COVID-19 test result will be required for arrivals from high-risk countries.
If you’ll travel to Korea soon, you can stay connected by booking this prepaid SIM card for pick-up in Incheon airport.

Explore more: South Korea’s Enhanced Travel Requirements Amid COVID-19

Negative COVID-19 Test Result Required for Travelers from the Philippines

Beginning Monday, July 20, all foreigners who will travel to Korea from the Philippines — including transfer passengers — must present a negative COVID-19 PCR Test Result, the Korean Embassy in Manila announced July 16. The requirement was made due to the “many cases in which COVID-19 has been confirmed from those who entered Korea…from the Philippines.”

Travelers will still have to undergo the mandatory quarantine (whether at home or in a government-designated facility) and submit to testing within 3 days from their arrival in Korea. (Read: What’s Quarantine in Korea Like?)

Last week, Korean health authorities announced that they will require a negative COVID-19 result from arrivals from high-risk countries. They did not disclose the list for diplomatic reasons but noted that they will revise the list weekly depending on the health situation in the identified countries.

Designated Hospitals for COVID-19 Swab Testing

If you’ll travel to Korea from the Philippines soon, you may proceed to any of the following hospitals for testing (note that your result must come out negative and must have been issued within 48 hours before the flight):

St Luke’s Medical Center – Taguig
St Luke’s Medical Center – Quezon City
Makati Medical Center
Manila Doctors Hospital
The Medical City – Pasig City
The Medical City – Clark
Lung Center of the Philippines
Baguio Medical Center
PRI Medical Center

Korea travel ideas

If you have plans to visit Korea in the future (or if you’re currently in Korea doing quarantine!), consider booking the following to make your stay worthwhile: