119 Emergency Medical Interpretation Service for Foreigners
Foreign residents and travelers in Korea can access the free 119 interpretation service during emergencies.
This includes fire, rescue, and medical emergencies, with real-time interpreters available in multiple languages.
1. What the 119 Interpretation Service Provides
The service is offered by the National Fire Agency (소방청) and includes:
Medical emergency assistance
Ambulance dispatch
Fire emergency response
Rescue operations
Real-time interpreter connection
2. Supported Languages
119 provides interpretation in major foreign languages, including:
English
Chinese
Vietnamese
Japanese
Thai
Mongolian
And more depending on availability
The interpretation service is available 24/7, free of charge.
3. When Should You Call 119?
Severe injury or sudden illness
Chest pain, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness
Fire, smoke, explosions
Car accidents or large injuries
Life-threatening situations of any kind
4. How to Use the Interpretation Service
Dial 119
Say: “Interpretation please” or “통역해주세요”
You will be connected to a triage operator
An interpreter joins the call instantly
You explain what happened through the interpreter
Tip: Speak slowly and clearly so the interpreter can assist accurately.
Please note that the amount will be recalculated based on the exchange rate at the time
of reservation, not at the time the items are added to the cart.
or instant confirmation items, your reservation will be confirmed immediately once the
payment is completed.
For items requiring confirmation within 30 minutes, we will check the availability and
then send you a quotation. Please check the quotation sent via the reservation status
page or email, and proceed with payment after confirmation.