The Korea Federation for AIDS/HIV Prevention is offering free, anonymous HIV testing for foreign nationals in Seoul and Ansan.

The tests are offered in Seoul on the first and third Sundays of each month and in Ansan, Gyeonggi Province, on the second and fourth Sundays.

KHAP has offered the tests since 2006, because many people from overseas avoid testing at hospitals as they are worried about privacy and the potential consequences if it is known they are tested. The centers ask those using the service to fill an anonymous survey, but do not require ID.

Those wanting to be tested must reserve an appointment in advance, which they can do via www.khap.org or by calling the center at (02) 927-4322 for Seoul or (031) 495-0560 for Ansan.

To get to the Seoul center, leave Gireum Station Exit 7, turn left and continue under the bridge. The center is just after the SK gas station.

The Ansan center is on the main road opposite Ansan Station and slightly to the right. It is on the left as you walk away from the center, in the third building after the first side road above the Donenu restaurant.

(paulkerry@heraldcorp.com)