Food Sensitivity & Allergy Testing in Seoul, Korea — VEI Clinic Apgujeong (English-Friendly)

Quick intro

VEI Clinic Apgujeong offers English-friendly food sensitivity and allergy testing for travelers and Seoul residents who want clarity on possible food-related reactions. We’re on the 3rd floor of Beneheim City (162 Apgujeong-ro), a short walk from Apgujeong Station Exit 5.

What we offer (doctor-guided)

We help you choose the right test depending on your symptoms, history, and goals:

  • True food allergy testing
  • Blood (specific IgE) panels for common foods
  • Skin-prick testing via partner centers (by referral)
  • Oral food challenge referral when appropriate
  • Food intolerance / non-IgE tests
  • Lactose intolerance breath test
  • Fructose malabsorption breath test
  • Celiac disease screening (tTG IgA ± total IgA)
  • Histamine intolerance guidance (clinical review ± DAO enzyme)
  • “Food sensitivity” panels
  • We explain limitations of IgG “sensitivity” panels (not diagnostic, may simply show exposure). If requested, we can arrange reputable labs but always interpret in context.
Important: Many “food sensitivity” tests marketed online (especially IgG-only) are not validated for diagnosing intolerance or allergy. We’ll help you avoid unnecessary tests and focus on evidence-based options.

When testing may be useful (examples)

  • Immediate-type reactions: hives, swelling, wheeze within minutes–hours of eating
  • Delayed digestive complaints: bloating, diarrhea, pain after dairy or certain carbs
  • Celiac screening: before gluten elimination, especially with family history
  • Multiple unexplained symptoms with suspected food triggers (case-by-case)
  • Travelers/expats trying to identify new-onset reactions abroad

Who might not be a candidate (today)

  • Severe allergic reaction now (anaphylaxis) → call 119 / go to ER immediately
  • Acute infection or unstable health — defer elective testing until stable
  • Already on strict elimination diets — some tests require re-exposure for accuracy (we’ll advise)

How to prepare (simple checklist)

  • Bring a symptom diary with foods & timing of reactions
  • List all medications & supplements, including antihistamines/steroids (these can affect skin tests)
  • Don’t start/stop major elimination diets right before testing without guidance
  • Fast: usually not required for blood IgE, but breath tests may require overnight fasting (we’ll give instructions)
  • Celiac test: must be on gluten-containing diet for accurate results

Visit flow (what to expect)

  1. Brief consult → symptom review, exposures, family history
  2. Test selection → IgE panel, breath test, celiac screen, or referral
  3. Collection → on-site blood draw or take-home breath kit (timed samples)
  4. Results review → clear English explanation + practical plan
  5. Next steps → elimination/reintroduction strategy, epinephrine training (if true allergy), dietitian referral

Turnaround time

  • Blood IgE/celiac tests: 2–5 business days
  • Breath tests: 3–7 business days
  • Skin-prick tests: same-day interpretation at partner center

Pricing & insurance notes

  • Fees vary by panel size, number of allergens, and test type
  • Most visitors pay upfront; many insurers reimburse with documentation
  • Request an itemized English receipt (diagnosis codes added when applicable)

Safety note (what this service is not for)

If you’re experiencing anaphylaxis (throat tightness, trouble breathing, severe swelling), call 119 or go to an ER. Testing at VEI Clinic is not an emergency service.

Hours & location

  • Mon/Thu/Fri: 10:00–19:00
  • Tue: 10:00–20:00
  • Sat: 10:00–16:00
  • Lunch: 13:00–14:00 (except Sat)
  • Closed: Wed & Sun
  • Address: 3F, VEI Clinic, 162 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Beneheim City, near Apgujeong Station Exit 5)
  • Phone: 02-542-8275 / 010-5700-7597

What to bring

  • Passport/ID, Korean phone number (if any)
  • Medication & supplement list, prior allergy test results
  • Payment method (card/cash); insurer details if you’ll file a claim

Why choose VEI Clinic Apgujeong

  • English-friendly internal-medicine team experienced with expats and travelers
  • Evidence-based approach to allergy/intolerance testing (avoiding false positives)
  • Clear, practical guidance on elimination diets and next steps
  • Flexible collection (blood draw or take-home breath kits) with private rooms

Book now (quick script)

“Hello, I’d like to book food allergy/intolerance testing (blood IgE ± breath test ± celiac screen). Could you share today/tomorrow availability, turnaround time, and a quote? I’ll need an English receipt. Thank you!”