Women's health · Prevention

HPV Vaccine in Seoul: Gardasil 9 for Adult Women and Korea's Program

The HPV vaccine protects against infection with the human papillomavirus types that cause most cervical cancers and genital warts; it is most effective before any exposure, but it can still benefit many adult women. At Hommage Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, OB/GYN specialist Dr. Park Yuna reviews your age, vaccine history and screening results, then advises on the vaccine and number of doses.

Dr. Park Yuna
Medically reviewed by
, OB/GYN specialist
Last reviewed
Hommage Clinic, a women's health and skin clinic in Gangnam, Seoul

Quick answer

The HPV vaccine prevents infection with the human papillomavirus types behind most cervical cancers and genital warts. At Hommage Women's Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, OB/GYN specialist Dr. Park Yuna offers Gardasil 9, approved in Korea for women aged 9–45. Adults starting at 15 or older usually receive three doses over six months. A Swedish study of 1.7 million women found an 88% lower cervical cancer risk when vaccination began before age 17.

Key takeaways

  • The vaccine works best before any exposure, but many adult women still benefit.
  • Gardasil 9 covers nine HPV types, including 52 and 58, which are relatively common in East Asian women.
  • Korea's free program uses the 4-valent vaccine for girls 12–17, low-income women 18–26 and boys aged 12.
  • Vaccinated women still need regular Pap smears or HPV tests.

Infographic

HPV vaccine in numbers

9

HPV types in Gardasil 9

Types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58.

~90%

Cervical cancers covered

Types in Gardasil 9; about 70% for 16 and 18 alone.

9–45

Approved age in Korea

For women receiving Gardasil 9.

3

Doses from age 15

At 0, 2 and 6 months; two doses if started at 14 or younger.

88%

Lower cancer risk

When vaccinated before 17 (Lei et al., NEJM 2020).

15 min

Rest after each dose

A short wait in case of dizziness or fainting.

Figures from the page text, WHO and published research (see references). Your own schedule is confirmed by Dr. Park.
✚ Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul

HPV vaccine at a glance

Key fact Details
What it is A vaccine against the HPV types behind most cervical cancers and genital warts
Vaccines in Korea Gardasil (4-valent) and Gardasil 9 (9-valent); Cervarix supply is being withdrawn
Age in Korea Gardasil 9 is approved for women aged 9–45
Number of doses 2 doses if started at age 14 or younger; 3 doses (0, 2, 6 months) from age 15
National program Free 4-valent vaccine for girls 12–17, low-income women 18–26 and boys aged 12
Common side effects Sore arm, swelling, headache or mild fever for a day or two
Reviewed by Dr. Park Yuna, OB/GYN specialist

The HPV vaccine may suit you if you

  • Are a woman aged 45 or younger and have not completed an HPV vaccine series
  • Are starting a new relationship or have had few previous partners
  • Have had an abnormal Pap smear or a positive HPV test, and want protection against other types
  • Started a series with Cervarix or Gardasil and did not finish it

Wait, or talk to us first, if you

  • Are pregnant: vaccination is postponed until after the birth
  • Had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or to yeast
  • Are unwell with a fever today (a mild cold is not a reason to delay)
  • Have a weakened immune system, which usually means three doses are needed

What is the HPV vaccine and how does it work?

The HPV vaccine teaches your immune system to recognize the human papillomavirus before you meet it. It contains virus-like particles made from a single HPV protein, with no live virus or DNA, so it cannot cause infection.

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection: most sexually active people catch at least one type during their lives, usually without symptoms. The body clears most infections within one to two years. When a high-risk type such as HPV 16 or 18 persists, it can slowly change cervical cells and, over many years, lead to cervical cancer. HPV also causes some cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus and throat, and low-risk types 6 and 11 cause most genital warts . The vaccine prevents new infections; it does not treat an infection you already have.

Gardasil vs Gardasil 9: which HPV vaccine is right for you?

Two HPV vaccines from MSD are currently available in Korea, and they differ in how many HPV types they cover.

  • Gardasil (4-valent): protects against types 16 and 18, which cause about 70% of cervical cancers, and types 6 and 11, which cause most genital warts. This is the vaccine used in Korea's National Immunization Program.
  • Gardasil 9 (9-valent): adds types 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58, covering the types behind roughly 90% of cervical cancers. Types 52 and 58 are relatively common in East Asian women. In Korea, Gardasil 9 is approved for ages 9–26 in both sexes and was extended in 2020 to women aged 27–45.
  • Cervarix (2-valent): its maker notified Korean regulators in January 2026 that supply would stop, with supply through July 2026. Clinics may use remaining stock until it expires. If you started with Cervarix, your series can usually be completed with Gardasil 9.

For most adult women paying for vaccination themselves, Gardasil 9 offers the broadest protection. Dr. Park will confirm which vaccine suits your history.

Is the HPV vaccine free in Korea? The national program

The HPV vaccine is free under Korea's National Immunization Program for specific groups, using the 4-valent vaccine:

  • Girls aged 12–17 (in 2026, those born 2008–2014).
  • Low-income women aged 18–26 who receive basic livelihood support or are in the near-poor group (in 2026, born 1999–2007).
  • Boys aged 12 , added from 6 May 2026 (in 2026, those born in 2014).

Free vaccination is given at designated clinics and some public health centers. Eligibility for foreign residents depends on registration status, so check with your local public health center (보건소). Gardasil 9 is not part of the national program, and the government is reviewing a possible switch to the 9-valent vaccine. Women outside these groups, including all women aged 27–45, pay for vaccination themselves.

Should I get the HPV vaccine after 26?

Many women aged 27–45 can still benefit, but the benefit is usually smaller than in teenagers, because many adults have already met some HPV types. The decision is individual, and international guidance recommends talking it through with your doctor.

Vaccination is more likely to help if you have had few partners, are starting a new relationship, or have tested negative for high-risk HPV. Even if you have had HPV, the vaccine can protect you against the types you have not yet caught. Some studies suggest that vaccination after treatment for cervical precancer may lower the chance of it coming back. An HPV test is not required before vaccination, but your result can help the discussion.

HPV vaccine schedule: how many doses do you need?

The number of doses depends on your age at the first dose.

  • First dose at age 14 or younger: two doses, about 6 months apart.
  • First dose at age 15 or older: three doses, at 0, 2 and 6 months.
  • Weakened immune system: three doses at any age.

If you miss a dose, you do not need to restart; simply continue the series. Each injection goes into the upper arm and takes a few minutes. You are asked to stay seated for about 15 minutes afterward, because fainting can occur after any injection, especially in younger people. Vaccination does not replace screening: continue your Pap smears and follow the cervical cancer screening schedule for your age.

HPV vaccine side effects and safety

HPV vaccines have been given to many millions of people worldwide, and the World Health Organization regards them as very safe. Most side effects are mild and short-lived:

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection was given (the most common).
  • Headache, tiredness, mild fever, nausea or muscle aches for a day or two.
  • Dizziness or fainting shortly after the injection.

Severe allergic reactions are very rare, which is why you wait at the clinic after each dose. Large studies have not found a link between HPV vaccination and infertility or autoimmune disease. The vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy; if you receive a dose before knowing you are pregnant, no harm has been found, and the remaining doses are simply postponed. It can be given while breastfeeding.

Seek emergency care for swelling of the face or throat or difficulty breathing after vaccination, and contact the clinic if fever or arm pain lasts more than a few days.

HPV vaccination at Hommage Clinic

At Hommage Clinic, a short walk from Sinnonhyeon Station in Gangnam, Dr. Park Yuna, a female OB/GYN specialist, reviews your vaccine records, age and screening history before vaccination, and can combine it with a Pap smear, HPV test or well-woman exam in the same visit. Please mention the vaccine and bring any previous vaccine records when you book an appointment. Our other gynecology services are listed here.

Outside the national program, HPV vaccination is not covered by National Health Insurance, so the cost depends on the vaccine and number of doses. We explain costs in writing before your first dose.

Mechanism

How does the HPV vaccine prevent cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer develops slowly. A high-risk HPV type infects the cervix, most infections clear on their own, but a persistent infection can change cervical cells over years into precancer and, if untreated, cancer. The World Health Organization notes that more than 95% of cervical cancers are caused by sexually transmitted HPV.

The vaccine contains virus-like particles: empty protein shells that look like HPV to the immune system but contain no viral DNA. Your body makes antibodies against them, and those antibodies block the real virus from establishing infection. That is why the vaccine prevents new infections but cannot clear one you already have, and why it works best before any exposure.

How the HPV vaccine works, Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul Three steps. 1: the vaccine contains virus-like particles, empty protein shells with no viral DNA. 2: the immune system makes antibodies. 3: if real HPV arrives later, antibodies block it before it can infect cervical cells. HOW THE HPV VACCINE WORKS 1. Vaccine 2. Antibodies 3. Protection Empty protein shell no virus DNA Immune system learns the shape Real HPV blocked before infection HOMMAGE WOMEN'S CLINIC · GANGNAM, SEOUL
1. Vaccine Virus-like particles made from one HPV protein. No live virus, so it cannot cause infection.
2. Antibodies Over the dose series your immune system builds antibodies against each covered type.
3. Protection Antibodies stop new infection with covered types. Existing infections are not treated.
Original illustration by Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul. Simplified diagram, not to scale.
HPV vaccine vial and syringe for Gardasil 9 vaccination at Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul Hommage · Gangnam Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul

The vaccine contains no live virus and cannot cause HPV infection. Illustrative photo.

Schedule

Gardasil 9 dose schedule for adult women

In Korea, Gardasil 9 is given according to its approved label: two doses for those who start at 14 or younger, and three doses for those who start at 15 or older. In 2022 the World Health Organization also endorsed one- or two-dose schedules for girls and young women up to age 20 in public programs, and two doses six months apart for women over 21; immunocompromised people should receive at least two and, where possible, three doses. Dr. Park follows the Korean label and explains how any doses you received abroad fit in.

HPV vaccine schedule: Gardasil 9 two-dose and three-dose timeline, Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul Two timelines. Started at age 15 or older: doses at month 0, month 2 and month 6. Started at age 14 or younger: doses at month 0 and month 6. A missed dose does not mean restarting. GARDASIL 9 SCHEDULE Age 15+ 3 doses Age 9–14 2 doses 1 2 3 1 2 Month 0 Month 2 Month 6 Month 0 Month 6 Missed a dose? Continue the series; no restart. HOMMAGE WOMEN'S CLINIC · GANGNAM, SEOUL
Started at 15 or older Three doses at 0, 2 and 6 months. This applies to most adult women.
Started at 14 or younger Two doses about 6 months apart.
Weakened immune system Three doses at any age.
Delayed dose Continue where you left off; earlier doses still count.
Original illustration by Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul. Schedule based on the Korean product label; your plan is confirmed at your visit.
Laboratory microscope for cervical screening alongside the HPV vaccine, Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul Hommage · Gangnam Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul

Screening samples are checked in the lab, even after vaccination. Illustrative photo.

Prevention

HPV vaccine vs Pap smear: why you need both

The vaccine and screening do different jobs. The vaccine stops new infections with the types it covers. Screening, either aPap smearor anHPV test, finds cell changes from infections that happened before vaccination or from types the vaccine does not cover. Precancer found early can be treated before it becomes cancer, often after acolposcopy.

HPV vaccine vs Pap smear: where each fits in preventing cervical cancer, Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul A path from HPV exposure to persistent infection, to precancer, to cancer, which usually takes many years. The vaccine acts at the first step by preventing infection. Screening acts at the precancer step by finding changes early so they can be treated. VACCINE + SCREENING HPV exposure Persistent infection Precancer Cancer Vaccine blocks Screening finds Usually takes many years from infection to cancer HOMMAGE WOMEN'S CLINIC · GANGNAM, SEOUL
Original illustration by Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul. Simplified path; most HPV infections clear without causing disease.
Evidence

Does the HPV vaccine prevent cervical cancer? What the research says

Unlike many treatments on this site, the HPV vaccine is backed by large, high-quality evidence. Early trials showed it prevents infection and precancer; now population studies show fewer actual cancers. The clearest example is a Swedish national registry study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2020, which followed almost 1.7 million women and girls aged 10 to 30 for 11 years.

1.7M

Women and girls followed

Aged 10–30, over 11 years, in Sweden's national registers.

Lei et al., N Engl J Med, 2020
88%

Lower cancer risk

In those vaccinated before age 17, compared with unvaccinated women.

Lei et al., N Engl J Med, 2020
~50%

Lower risk at 17–30

Benefit was smaller, but still substantial, when vaccination started later.

Karolinska Institutet summary, 2020
>95%

Cervical cancers caused by HPV

Why preventing HPV infection prevents most cervical cancer.

World Health Organization, 2022
Limitations. The Swedish study used the 4-valent vaccine and observed women rather than randomly assigning them, so some of the difference may reflect other factors, although the researchers adjusted for age, education and other variables. The smaller benefit at 17–30 reflects earlier exposure to HPV, which is also why the benefit for women aged 27–45 is usually smaller still. No vaccine covers every cancer-causing HPV type, so screening remains essential.
✚ Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
On the day

Before and after your HPV vaccine dose

There is no special preparation. Eat normally, wear a top that lets you uncover your upper arm easily, and bring any vaccine records. Tell the team if you have fainted after injections before, are or might be pregnant, or have had a severe allergic reaction, including to yeast. You stay seated for about 15 minutes after the injection.

Normal after a dose

  • Sore, red or swollen arm for a day or two
  • Headache, tiredness or mild fever
  • Brief dizziness soon after the injection
  • Carry on with normal activity, including exercise

Seek care if

  • Face or throat swelling, or difficulty breathing: emergency care
  • Fever or arm pain lasting more than a few days
  • A rash spreading beyond the arm
  • You learn you are pregnant: pause the series and tell us
✚ Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
HPV vaccine injection in the upper arm, Gardasil 9 at Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul Hommage · Gangnam Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul

Each dose is a quick injection into the upper arm. Illustrative photo.

Passport and vaccination record for international patients getting the HPV vaccine at Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul Hommage · Seoul Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul

Bring your passport and any vaccine records from home. Illustrative photo.

Visitors and expats

HPV vaccine in Seoul for international patients

Many foreign residents and visitors start or finish their HPV vaccine series in Seoul. Hommage Women's Clinic is in Gangnam, a short walk from Sinnonhyeon Station (Line 9 and Shinbundang Line). Because the adult schedule runs over six months, it helps to plan where each dose will happen.

  • Contact the clinic by WhatsApp, KakaoTalk or the contact form so the vaccine is ready on your date, and ask for language support if needed.
  • Bring your passport or residence card and records of any HPV doses received abroad, including the brand.
  • A single visit is enough for one dose: the check, injection and 15-minute rest are short.
  • If you will finish the series at home, ask for a written record of the vaccine name and dose dates, and note when your next doses are due.
  • Combine the visit with aPap smear,HPV testorSTD testingif you are due.
Planning

Where to get the HPV vaccine in Seoul, and what affects cost

Any licensed clinic that stocks the vaccine can give it, but a gynecology clinic can also review your screening history and fit vaccination around Pap smears or HPV results. Useful questions when choosing:

  • Which vaccine is in stock? Gardasil 9 or the 4-valent Gardasil; ask before you travel to the clinic.
  • Am I eligible for the free program? Girls 12–17, low-income women 18–26 and boys aged 12 use designated clinics or public health centers.
  • Will they check my screening history? Vaccination is a good moment to catch up on a Pap smear or HPV test.
  • Do I get a written record? Essential if you will finish the series elsewhere.
  • Is the full cost explained up front? For all doses, not just the first.
✚ Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul

What affects the cost?

Outside the national program, cost depends on the vaccine (Gardasil 9 or 4-valent Gardasil) and the number of doses you need, which is set by your age at the first dose. Combining vaccination with screening tests adds the cost of those tests. HPV vaccination is not covered by National Health Insurance for adults outside the program, and the clinic explains costs in writing before your first dose.

Planning HPV vaccine dose dates on a calendar, Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul Hommage · Gangnam Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul

Put your second and third dose dates in your calendar before you leave. Illustrative photo.

Your visit

What to expect at your vaccine appointment

01

Book ahead

Mention the HPV vaccine when you book so it can be prepared, and bring any previous vaccine records.

02

Quick check

Dr. Park reviews your age, previous doses, pregnancy status, allergies and screening history, and answers your questions.

03

Vaccination

A single injection in the upper arm, followed by about 15 minutes of rest at the clinic.

04

Next doses

You leave with the dates for your remaining doses. Keep your vaccine record, especially if you will finish the series abroad.

Dr. Park Yuna, OB/GYN specialist and medical director of Hommage Clinic in Seoul
Your doctor

Dr. Park Yuna

Medical Director · OB/GYN Specialist

Dr. Park reviews your age, any previous doses and your screening results before vaccinating, so you get the right vaccine and the right number of doses. She also checks that your cervical screening is up to date, since the vaccine does not replace it.

OB/GYN specialist (Korea) and representative director of Hommage Clinic. Leads women's health care, labiaplasty and other cosmetic gynecology procedures.

Read Dr. Park Yuna's profile →

HPV vaccine: frequently asked questions

  • How many doses of Gardasil 9 do I need?

    If you start at age 14 or younger, two doses about 6 months apart are usually enough. If you start at 15 or older, you need three doses at 0, 2 and 6 months. People with a weakened immune system need three doses at any age. If a dose is delayed, you continue the series without restarting.

  • Can I get the HPV vaccine if I'm over 26?

    Yes. In Korea, Gardasil 9 is approved for women up to age 45. The benefit for women aged 27–45 is usually smaller than for younger people, because many adults have already been exposed to some HPV types, so the decision is made individually with your doctor based on your history and plans.

  • Can I get the HPV vaccine if I already have HPV?

    Yes. The vaccine will not clear an existing infection or treat abnormal cells, but it can protect you against other HPV types you have not been exposed to. If you have had an abnormal result, continue your follow-up, such as colposcopy, as advised.

  • Do I still need Pap smears after the HPV vaccine?

    Yes. The vaccine does not cover every HPV type that can cause cervical cancer, and it does not protect against infections acquired before vaccination. Vaccinated women should continue regular cervical screening according to the schedule for their age.

  • Is the HPV vaccine free in Korea?

    It is free for girls aged 12–17, low-income women aged 18–26 and, since May 2026, boys aged 12, using the 4-valent vaccine at designated clinics and public health centers. Gardasil 9 is not included in the national program, and other adults pay for vaccination themselves.

  • Can I get the HPV vaccine while pregnant or breastfeeding?

    The HPV vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy, so vaccination is postponed until after the birth. If you were vaccinated before learning you were pregnant, studies have not found harm, and the remaining doses are given later. You can be vaccinated while breastfeeding.

  • Can foreigners get the HPV vaccine in Seoul?

    Yes. Foreign residents and visitors can be vaccinated at Hommage Clinic in Gangnam; walk-ins are welcome, or book ahead so the vaccine is ready. Bring your passport or residence card and any vaccine records from home. If you are visiting short-term, plan where you will get your remaining doses. Please contact us before your visit to arrange language support.

  • How effective is the HPV vaccine against cervical cancer?

    Very effective when given early. A Swedish study of about 1.7 million women and girls published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2020 found an 88% lower risk of invasive cervical cancer in those vaccinated before age 17, and roughly half the risk in those vaccinated at 17–30.

  • Is one dose of HPV vaccine enough?

    In 2022 the World Health Organization endorsed one- or two-dose schedules for girls and young women up to age 20 in public programs. In Korea, Gardasil 9 is given according to its approved label: two doses if started at 14 or younger and three doses from age 15. Dr. Park follows the Korean label.

  • Can I finish my HPV vaccine series in another country?

    Usually yes. Bring a written record of the vaccine name and dose dates so a doctor abroad can continue the series. If the same brand is not available, ask the local doctor how to complete it; you do not need to restart.

  • Does the HPV vaccine protect against genital warts?

    Yes. Both Gardasil and Gardasil 9 include HPV types 6 and 11, which cause most genital warts. The vaccine does not treat warts you already have; see genital warts treatment for that.

  • Does the HPV vaccine affect fertility?

    No. Large studies have not found a link between HPV vaccination and infertility. The vaccine can be given before you plan a pregnancy; if you become pregnant during the series, the remaining doses are simply postponed until after the birth.

  • Can I get the HPV vaccine at the same visit as a Pap smear?

    Yes. Many women combine vaccination with a Pap smear or HPV test at Hommage Women's Clinic. Screening results do not need to be back before vaccination.

References

Sources used for this page, reviewed by Dr. Park Yuna, OB/GYN specialist. Read our editorial and medical review policy.

  1. Lei J, Ploner A, Elfström M, et al. HPV vaccination and the risk of invasive cervical cancer. N Engl J Med. 2020. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1917338. Karolinska Institutet summary
  2. World Health Organization. WHO updates recommendations on HPV vaccination schedule. 20 December 2022. WHO
  3. Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. National Immunization Program: HPV vaccination for adolescents and eligible young women (program details as described on this page).
  4. Gardasil 9 Korean product approval (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety), including the 2020 extension to women aged 27–45 (as described on this page).

This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. Illustrations are original works of Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul; photos marked illustrative are not of patients.

Related cervical health services

HPV Testing

The HPV DNA test explained, and what positive or negative results mean.

Cervical Cancer Screening

Screening schedules by age and how Korea's national program works.

Pap Smear

How the Pap test is done, how to prepare and how results are reported.

Genital Warts Treatment

Diagnosis and treatment of genital warts caused by low-risk HPV types.

Colposcopy

The follow-up exam after an abnormal Pap smear or positive HPV test.

Premarital Health Check

Health checks before marriage or pregnancy, including infection and vaccine review.

Plan your HPV vaccination

Book an appointment with Dr. Park Yuna in Gangnam to review your vaccine history and start or complete your HPV vaccine series.

Hommage Clinic · 4F, Building A, 509 Gangnam-daero, Seoul (near Sinnonhyeon Station) · Mon & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Tue–Thu 10:00–19:00 · Sat 10:00–15:00