Finding an Exterminator in Korea: Complete Guide for Foreigners

Living in Korea can be an exciting experience, but like anywhere in the world, dealing with pests such as cockroaches, bedbugs, ants, termites, or even mosquitoes is sometimes unavoidable.

For newcomers, finding an exterminator in Korea can be challenging due to language barriers and lack of local knowledge.

This guide will help you understand how to find reliable pest control services, the average costs, search terms in Korean you can use on Naver (네이버), and even apps that make the process easier.

Average Prices for Pest Control in Korea

The cost of exterminator services in Korea depends on the type of pest and the size of your home or office:

• Cockroach / Ant extermination: ₩80,000 - ₩150,000 (one-time visit)

• Bedbug treatment: ₩200,000 - ₩500,000 (often requires multiple visits)

• Termite removal: ₩300,000 - ₩600,000 (depending on infestation size)

• Mosquito / general disinfection service: ₩100,000 - ₩200,000

• Monthly/quarterly maintenance plans: ₩70,000 - ₩120,000 per visit

Tip: Prices are usually higher in Seoul compared to smaller cities, and some companies add an extra fee for late-night or weekend services.

How to Search for Exterminators in Korean

Since most pest control businesses in Korea advertise mainly in Korean, using the right keywords on Naver (네이버), the country’s main search engine, is key. Here are the most useful search terms:

• Exterminator / Pest Control: 해충 방역 (hae-chung bang-yeok)

• Cockroach extermination: 바퀴벌레 퇴치 (bakwi-beolle toe-chi)

• Bedbug extermination: 빈대 퇴치 (bindae toe-chi)

• Mosquito control: 모기 방역 (mogi bang-yeok)

• Termite control: 흰개미 방역 (huin-gae-mi bang-yeok)

Example search on Naver: 서울 해충 방역 업체 (Seoul pest control company)

Apps and Online Platforms You Can Use

If searching on Naver feels overwhelming, you can also use apps and online platforms popular in Korea:

1. KakaoTalk (카카오톡) – Many pest control companies operate through KakaoTalk channels. Just search for "해충 방역" in the KakaoTalk Channel search.

2. 당근마켓 (Danggeun Market / Karrot App) – Korea’s neighborhood marketplace app. Many local exterminators advertise here, and you can see reviews from neighbors.

3. Naver 예약 (Naver Booking) – Some pest control services allow direct reservations via Naver’s booking platform.

4. Ohouse (오늘의집) – While mainly for interior services, some pest control businesses advertise here.

Pro Tip: Always check customer reviews (후기, hu-gi) before booking to ensure reliability.

What to Expect During a Visit

• Initial inspection: The exterminator will check problem areas.

• Treatment: Spraying, fumigation, or specialized traps depending on pest type.

• Follow-up: Some pests (bedbugs, termites) require 2–3 visits.

• Guarantee: Many companies offer a 1-3 month guarantee (보증, bo-jeung).

Finding an exterminator in Korea doesn’t have to be stressful, even if you’re a foreigner. By knowing the right Korean search terms, using local apps like Naver or Danggeun Market, and understanding the average prices, you can quickly book reliable pest control services.

Whether you’re dealing with cockroaches, bedbugs, termites, or mosquitoes, professional help is widely available across Korea. With the right information, you can keep your home safe, clean, and pest-free.