Physiotherapy Licensure Guide for UK Graduates ( South Korea )
Thinking about studying physiotherapy in the UK and working in South Korea later on? This guide explains what you’ll need after graduation to become a fully licensed physiotherapist in South Korea.
Regulatory Authority:
In South Korea, physiotherapists (physical therapists) are licensed by the government under the Ministry of Health and Welfare. The key step is passing the national physical therapy licensing examination, administered by the Korea Health Personnel Licensing Examination Institute (KHPLEI). The Korean Physical Therapy Association (KPTA) is the professional body, but licensure is granted by the national exam authority and the Ministry.
Recognition of UK Credentials:
A UK physiotherapy degree on its own is not a license to practice in Korea, but it fulfills the educational requirement provided it’s deemed equivalent to a Korean PT bachelor’s degree. International graduates must have their foreign degree evaluated and approved by the Ministry of Health and Welfare as equivalent to the domestic qualification. Generally, a UK BSc in Physiotherapy (or pre-reg MSc) is considered comparable to a Korean bachelor’s in physical therapy, but the Ministry will verify elements like program length and content. Only after this recognition can the graduate register for the national exam.
Exams or Additional Training:
Yes – passing the Korean licensing exam is mandatory. The exam consists of a comprehensive written test on subjects like anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, therapeutic techniques, etc., and a practical skills examination to assess hands-on competencies. There is a high pass rate (reported >80% first-time pass) , but international candidates should prepare thoroughly. In practice, UK graduates typically meet academic requirements and proceed directly to the exam. After passing the exam, the individual is granted a full Korean PT license (no further supervised practice requirement).
Language Requirements:
Korean language proficiency is crucial. While some medical professionals in Korea speak English, effective patient care requires Korean. The licensing exam is conducted in Korean, so being fluent is effectively required. There is no official Korean language test as part of licensure, but foreign applicants should be proficient to pass the exam and practice safely. Many hospitals will expect at least TOPIK Level 5 or 6 (advanced) or similar fluency for employment. Korean authorities do not mandate a separate language certificate for the exam, but the need to communicate with patients and colleagues in Korean is essential.