BTSDB Guide · Visit Korea — treatments, costs, safety checks
Korea receives over two million foreign patients a
year — for plastic surgery and dermatology, but also dental work, comprehensive health checkups,
LASIK, and orthopedics. The draw is a rare combination: top-tier specialists with enormous case volumes,
prices well below the US and often below Southeast Asian "premium" clinics, and a system officially set up
for foreign patients (government registration for clinics that treat them, interpreters, aftercare).
What people come for — and rough budgets
Comprehensive health checkup
Half-day to 2-day programs with imaging and
endoscopy — typically $300–$2,000+ depending on depth. A common "medical layover" for travelers.
Dermatology & skin
Laser, rejuvenation, K-beauty procedures — sessions from
$100–$500; packages common.
Dental
Implants roughly $800–$2,500 per tooth — often less than half of
US pricing, with same-week treatment plans.
Plastic surgery
Wide range by procedure and hospital tier; consultations are
usually free, and reputable clinics quote in writing.
Vision (LASIK/LASEK/SMILE)
Typically $1,000–$2,500 for both eyes,
including thorough pre-exams.
Ranges are indicative, vary by hospital and case, and change over time —
always confirm with a written estimate.
How a typical trip flows
1
Remote consultation & estimate — send your goals (and photos/records where relevant), receive
treatment options and a written quote.
2
Schedule around your trip — many treatments fit a 3–7 day stay; surgery may require longer for
follow-ups.
3
Treatment with interpretation — registered international clinics provide or arrange interpreters
(English, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Arabic and more).
4
Aftercare — in-person follow-ups before departure, then remote check-ins. Keep all records and
receipts for insurance or tax purposes at home.
Safety: verify before you book
Korean clinics serving foreign
patients must be government-registered for foreign-patient care — ask for the registration.
The clinic operates as a
registered Korean business — you can verify its business number like any
other company.
Insist on a written estimate;
beware brokers on social media quoting far below every clinic.
Plan realistic recovery time
before your flight home — reputable clinics will tell you honestly.