STIs / STDs
When you're worried about getting tested — Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, HIV: Information on anonymous testing.
Reasons why testing is necessary even without symptoms.
Sexually transmitted infections often have no symptoms in more than half of the cases. Chlamydia and gonorrhea, if left untreated, can cause infertility, and syphilis has been increasing recently in Korea, leading to its classification as a Class 3 infectious disease.
- Testing is recommended: before and after starting a relationship with a new partner, after unprotected sexual intercourse, and when your partner tests positive for an infection.
- Diagnosis is confirmed through urine, blood, and secretion tests, and can be performed at urology clinics, gynecology clinics, and public health centers.
- Most cases are cured with antibiotics. The most important thing is to treat both partners (if only one person is treated, the infection can be transmitted back and forth).
Source: 질병관리청 감염병포털 · as of 2026-08-13
HIV - Anonymous testing vs. treatment with identification.
- You can receive free and anonymous testing at public health centers throughout the country (no ID required, no record will be kept).
- HIV is now becoming a chronic disease that can be managed with just one pill a day, and it has been internationally established that if the virus is suppressed through treatment, it does not transmit even through sexual contact (U=U).
- If you have been exposed to high risk within 72 hours, emergency medication (PEP) may be prescribed – please inquire at the infectious disease department or emergency room.
- Delaying testing out of fear is the worst choice. The sooner you know, the better you can manage it.
Source: 질병관리청 감염병포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Frequently asked questions
Does leaving a record of a test result notify insurance companies or employers?
Medical records are legally protected and will not be provided to third parties without your consent. If you are still concerned, please consider using the anonymous testing services (for HIV and syphilis) offered by the public health center.
Do condoms prevent all sexually transmitted infections?
It significantly reduces the risk, but it does not completely prevent infections that are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact (such as herpes and genital warts). Regular checkups and open communication with your partner are also necessary.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 감염병포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
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