Treatment

What is Adult ADHD Assessment?

Adult ADHD assessment in Korea is done by psychiatrists (jeongsin geongang uihakgwa). Gangnam has many private psychiatry clinics with short waits, and some doctors consult in English.

Expats and long-stay visitors use them for a first diagnosis or to continue medication started abroad.

How it works

The psychiatrist takes a detailed history of attention, impulsivity and childhood symptoms. Questionnaires such as the adult ADHD rating scales are scored, and many clinics add a computerized attention test (CAT) or a full psychological battery that also screens for depression, anxiety and sleep problems. Diagnosis is clinical; test scores support it rather than decide it.

Common medications in Korea are methylphenidate (Concerta, Medikinet) and atomoxetine. Amphetamine-based medicines such as Adderall and Vyvanse are not available.

Who it suits

Adults with long-standing attention or organization problems
Expats who need to continue ADHD medication in Korea
People who want a structured assessment with written results

Who should skip it or wait

Short-term tourists hoping to get stimulant medication quickly
People with active substance misuse, until that is addressed
Those who need an assessment in a language the clinic cannot provide

Side effects and risks

Reduced appetite, insomnia or palpitations with methylphenidate
Raised heart rate or blood pressure
Misdiagnosis if anxiety, depression or sleep problems are not considered

Aftercare

Take medication in the morning to protect sleep
Monitor weight and blood pressure
Keep a symptom diary for follow-up visits
Do not share or sell medication, which is a serious offence in Korea

Planning around your trip

Methylphenidate is a controlled drug; carry the prescription and a doctor's letter in English and check the rules of every country you fly through.

Mental Health clinics near Apgujeong

DF Psychiatry Clinic (디에프정신건강의학과의원)
Mental Health, 2 min walk from Apgujeongrodeo Station
Gangnam Yeon Psychiatry Clinic (강남연정신건강의학과의원)
Mental Health, 2 min walk from Gangnam-gu Office Station
Ryu Hanwook Psychiatry Clinic (류한욱정신과의원)
Mental Health, 1 min walk from Gangnam-gu Office Station
Bitnal Psychiatry Clinic (빛날정신건강의학과의원)
Mental Health, 1 min walk from Gangnam-gu Office Station
Idam Psychiatry Clinic (이담정신건강의학과의원)
Mental Health, 1 min walk from Gangnam-gu Office Station

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Adult ADHD Assessment questions

Can I get Adderall or Vyvanse in Korea?

No. Amphetamine-based ADHD medicines are not approved in Korea. Psychiatrists prescribe methylphenidate or atomoxetine instead, and do not import amphetamines from abroad.

Can I bring my own ADHD medication into Korea?

Controlled medicines like methylphenidate need advance approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for personal import. Amphetamine products are prohibited, so check before you travel.

Will the psychiatrist speak English?

Some Gangnam psychiatrists consult in English, but questionnaires and tests may be in Korean. Ask the clinic in advance whether English versions are available.

Does a diagnosis in Korea go on a record that affects my visa?

Medical records are confidential under Korean law. A diagnosis does not get shared with immigration unless you choose to submit documents.

How much medicine will they give at once?

Controlled drugs are usually prescribed for 2 to 4 weeks at a time at first, and up to a few months once stable.

Is the CAT test enough to diagnose ADHD?

No. The computerized attention test measures performance on the day. Diagnosis relies on the clinical interview, history and rating scales.

Questions before you visit?

Mental health · 성인 ADHD 검사

Adult ADHD Assessment at Gangnam Psychiatry Clinics

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