Aesthetic Treatment in Korea: How to Choose a Clinic, Book and Plan Your Stay
Most people planning cosmetic treatment in Korea get stuck on three things: which treatment to choose, which clinic they can trust, and how many days to stay in Seoul. This page covers how to pick a treatment by skin concern, what to check before choosing a clinic, and the steps from first inquiry to follow-up after you go home. For details on each treatment, open its guide.
Find a treatment by concern
5 things to check before choosing a Seoul clinic
- Is it registered with Korea's Ministry of Health and Welfare as a medical institution for foreign patients?
- Is the treatment done by a specialist doctor or a general practitioner?
- How interpretation works: in-house staff, an accompanying interpreter, or online
- Are the products and devices genuine? You can ask to see them opened in front of you
- Who to contact if there is a problem after you go home, and which messaging app they use
How booking works
How many days should you stay in Seoul?
| 2 days 1 night to 3 days 2 nights | Treatments with almost no downtime: laser toning, Botox, skin boosters, Ultherapy |
|---|---|
| 4 days 3 nights | Lasers that cause redness or tiny scabs: picosecond for pigmentation, fractional laser, gold microneedling |
| 6 days 5 nights or more | Surgery such as nose and eye procedures: allow time for stitch removal and for flying, see each surgery guide |
FAQ
Can I go to Korea for treatment on my own?
Yes. Booking, interpretation and accompaniment to the clinic can all be arranged, and first-time visitors can follow the process step by step.
Can I still get a tax refund on cosmetic treatments?
The VAT refund for foreigners on cosmetic treatments ended at the end of 2025. The Korean National Assembly is currently discussing whether to reinstate it, and we will post any news here.
How can I pay?
It depends on the clinic, but most accept cards or cash. The clinic explains the treatment details before you pay.
KBEAU|Registered foreign patient facilitator, Ministry of Health and Welfare (Korea) A-2026-01-02-07140
KBEAU


