Table of contents

• Best Korean Medicine Clinics in Korea
• Cost of Korean Medicine in Korea
• What Is Usually Included in Cost of Korean Medicine in Korea
• Factors Influencing the Cost of Korean Medicine in Korea
• Comparing the Cost of Korean Medicine: Korea vs the Rest of the World
• Cost of Coming To Korea for Korean Medicine

Are you considering traveling to Korea for medical procedures but unsure about the costs involved? Known for its advanced medical technology and competitive pricing, Korea offers a wide range of cosmetic and traditional treatments that attract international patients. From liposuction to acupuncture, the costs can vary widely depending on the complexity and specifics of the procedure. This guide breaks down the typical expenses involved, providing both Korean Won and USD estimates to help you plan your medical journey. Whether it's travel costs, accommodation, or local transportation, knowing what to expect can help ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience in Korea's thriving medical tourism industry.

Best Korean Medicine Clinics in Korea

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Aujud Diet Clinic	Personalized weight management, body contouring	Melting Pill Diet, Cryotherapy, Thermotherapy
Life Health Korean Medicine Clinic - Busan	Comprehensive weight loss programs, targeted plans for special occasions	Diet Acupuncture, Lifting Threads, Advanced Equipment-Assisted Procedures
Young Do Korean Medicine Clinic	Traditional and modern therapeutic practices, comprehensive care	Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Moxibustion, Cupping Therapy, Chuna Manual Therapy, Tui Na Massage

Aujud Diet Clinic

Aujud Diet Clinic in Cheongdam is a premier destination for those seeking effective weight management and body contouring solutions in Korea. Renowned for its personalized approach, the clinic offers a range of treatments tailored to meet individual needs, ensuring optimal results for each client. Aujud Diet Clinic stands out as the best choice for cost-effective Korean medicine due to its innovative procedures and commitment to client satisfaction.

• Melting Pill Diet: A unique medication procedure where clients take Melting Pills twice daily to effectively reduce body fat and suppress unnecessary appetite, promoting a healthier lifestyle.

• Cryotherapy: This advanced thermal therapy uses cooling methods to rapidly burn body fat, enhancing and contouring body lines for a more defined appearance.

• Thermotherapy: Utilizing thermal techniques, this procedure quickly eliminates body fat and waste products, leaving clients feeling lighter and more energized, contributing to overall well-being.

Aujud Diet Clinic's combination of cutting-edge treatments and personalized care makes it a top choice for those seeking cost-effective Korean medicine solutions in Korea.

Find more about this clinic here: Aujud Diet Clinic Website

Life Health Korean Medicine Clinic - Busan

Life Health Korean Medicine Clinic - Busan, located in the bustling district of Seomyeon, stands out as a premier destination for those seeking effective and affordable Korean medicine treatments focused on weight management and overall wellness. By integrating both traditional and modern Korean medicine techniques, the clinic offers a holistic approach to health that is both innovative and rooted in time-honored practices. Here’s why Life Health Korean Medicine Clinic is considered the best choice for cost-effective Korean medicine in Korea:

• Comprehensive Weight Loss Programs: The clinic offers a variety of specialized programs, including "Today, Reduction" Premium Herbal Medicine for immediate weight loss, and targeted solutions for menopausal women, children, adolescents, and men, ensuring personalized care for every demographic.
• Targeted Plans for Special Occasions: With unique offerings like the Wedding Diet and Postpartum Weight Loss programs, the clinic caters to specific life events, helping clients achieve their desired look and health goals safely and effectively.
• Innovative Weight Loss Boosters: Techniques such as Diet Acupuncture and Lifting Threads provide non-surgical options for enhancing weight loss and body contouring, making them accessible and appealing to a wide range of clients.
• Sustainable Maintenance Programs: The "Tomorrow, Maintenance" Yo-Yo Prevention Herbal Medicine focuses on long-term weight management, helping clients maintain their results and prevent rebound weight gain through sustainable lifestyle changes.
• Advanced Equipment-Assisted Procedures: The use of medical devices for fat reduction and skin tightening complements traditional treatments, offering non-invasive options that enhance overall results.

Life Health Korean Medicine Clinic’s dedication to personalized care and its comprehensive range of treatments make it a top choice for those seeking effective and affordable Korean medicine solutions in Korea.

Find more about this clinic here: Life Health Korean Medicine Clinic - Busan Website

Young Do Korean Medicine Clinic

Young Do Korean Medicine Clinic in Apgujeong stands out as the premier destination for cost-effective Korean medicine in Korea, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern therapeutic practices. The clinic excels in providing comprehensive care through its diverse range of treatments, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, moxibustion, cupping therapy, and physical therapy. Traditional acupuncture and its modern counterpart, electroacupuncture, are expertly administered to stimulate energy flow and enhance healing, particularly for chronic pain and muscle issues. The clinic's customized herbal prescriptions and freshly brewed herbal decoctions are tailored to each patient's specific needs, promoting balance and holistic health. Moxibustion techniques, both direct and indirect, are employed to invigorate Qi flow and address cold conditions, while cupping therapy, including fire and dry cupping, effectively alleviates pain and improves circulation. Additionally, the clinic offers Chuna manual therapy and Tui Na massage, which are integral in correcting alignment and enhancing physical function. With personalized care and a holistic approach, Young Do Korean Medicine Clinic ensures that each patient receives the best possible treatment for their individual health needs.

Find more about this clinic here: Young Do Korean Medicine Clinic Website

Cost of Korean Medicine in Korea

Korea has become a renowned destination for a variety of medical procedures, offering advanced techniques and competitive pricing. Here's an overview of the costs for common procedures available in Korea, rendered in both Korean Won (KRW) and US Dollar (USD) for your convenience. Please note that securing your procedure typically requires a 10% upfront deposit.

Cosmetic Procedures

• Arm Liposuction

  • Cost: ₩1,889,000 - ₩3,632,000 (USD 1,300 - USD 2,500)

• Thigh Liposuction

  • Cost: ₩4,941,000 - ₩10,304,000 (USD 3,400 - USD 7,600)

• Face Liposuction

  • Cost: ₩3,198,000 - ₩4,360,000 (USD 2,200 - USD 3,000)

• Face Fat Grafting

  • Cost: ₩516,000 - ₩2,577,000 (USD 750 - USD 3,750)

• Abdominal Liposuction

  • Cost: ₩8,722,000 - ₩20,875,000 (USD 6,000 - USD 15,000)

• Buttocks Implants

  • Cost: ₩10,906,000 - ₩14,244,000 (USD 7,500 - USD 9,800)

• Full Body Liposuction

  • Cost: ₩13,760,000 - ₩15,920,000 (USD 20,000 - USD 23,000)

• Rhinoplasty

  • Cost: ₩3,470,000 - ₩6,192,000 (USD 2,500 - USD 9,000)

• Double Eyelid Surgery

  • Cost: ₩2,752,000 - ₩4,128,000 (USD 4,000 - USD 6,000)

• Hair Transplant

  • Cost: ₩1,032,000 - ₩6,024,000 (USD 1,500 - USD 9,000)

• Breast Augmentation

  • Cost: ₩4,128,000 - ₩6,880,000 (USD 6,000 - USD 10,000)

• Dental Implants

  • Cost: ₩1,376,000 - ₩2,064,000 (USD 2,000 - USD 3,000)

Weight and Other Procedures

• Diet Pills

  • Cost: ₩30,000 - ₩100,000 (USD 21 - USD 69)

• Diet Pills Prescription (1 Month)

  • Cost: ₩220,000 - ₩240,000 (USD 151 - USD 165)

• Diet Acupoint Injection

  • Fixed Cost: ₩40,000 (USD 28)

• Constipation Pills Prescription (10 Days)

  • Fixed Cost: ₩20,000 (USD 14)

• Weight Loss Surgery (Gastric Bypass)

  • Cost: ₩13,760,000 - ₩24,840,000 (USD 10,000 - USD 18,000)

• IVF

  • Cost: ₩4,816,000 - ₩8,256,000 (USD 7,000 - USD 12,000)

• Hip/Joint Replacement

  • Cost: ₩12,384,000 - ₩17,652,000 (USD 18,000 - USD 25,000)

Traditional Korean Medicine

• Initial Consultation and Diagnosis

  • Cost: ₩15,832 - ₩34,920 (USD 23 - USD 50)

• Herbal Medicine

  • Cost: ₩52,976 - ₩166,960 (USD 77 - USD 230)

• Acupuncture Sessions

  • Cost: ₩5,504 - ₩40,736 (USD 8 - USD 61)

• Cupping and Moxibustion

  • Cost: ₩10,320 - ₩26,456 (USD 15 - USD 38)

• Specialized Treatments

  • Cost: ₩264,680 - ₩528,380 (USD 385 - USD 770)

These prices reflect a broad range due to varying complexity, duration, and patient needs for each procedure. Always confirm with the medical provider for detailed and specific costing.

What Is Usually Included in Cost of Korean Medicine in Korea

When considering Korean medicine and medical procedures in Korea, understanding the typical costs involved is crucial. Here is an overview of the common cost considerations associated with various procedures:

Cosmetic Procedures

Cosmetic procedures like Arm Liposuction, Thigh Liposuction, Face Liposuction, Face Fat Grafting, Abdominal Liposuction, Buttocks Implants, and Full Body Liposuction generally include:

• Travel Costs to Korea: This covers the expenses of traveling to the country, including flights which can vary greatly depending on the point of departure and season.
• Accommodation Expenses: Staying in Korea for the required duration often necessitates booking a hotel or other lodging, potentially increasing total costs based on the length of stay and level of accommodation desired.
• Local Transportation: Whether it's taxis, rental cars, or public transit, getting around locally entails additional costs.
• Dining Expenses: Meals and other dining requirements are part of the stay and should be factored into the overall budget.

For procedures like Rhinoplasty, Breast Augmentation, Hair Transplant, and Dental Implants, travel and accommodation are consistently listed as primary cost considerations.

Medical Treatments

Medical treatments such as Diet Pills Prescriptions, Constipation Pills Prescriptions, and Diet Acupoint Injections emphasize:

• Prescription Costs and Sessions: For diet-related prescriptions, this includes the cost of the pills and related healthcare provider consultations. Acupoint injections are priced per session.
• Customized Plans: Diet plans specifically tailored to the patient's constitution are often included in the pricing for diet pill prescriptions.

Procedures such as Initial Consultations and Diagnosis and treatment plans like Herbal Medicine provide:

• Personalized Treatment Plan Development: Initial consultations aim to tailor subsequent treatment approaches, which may be complex and require professional expertise.
• Month's Supply of Herbs: For herbal medicine treatments, the cost often includes a month's supply of prescribed herbs, contributing to the comprehensive health approach.

Traditional Treatments

Traditional treatments such as Acupuncture Sessions, Cupping and Moxibustion, and Specialized Treatments typically incorporate:

• Session Duration and Number of Sessions: Costs depend on how many sessions are recommended, which can be determined based on an individual’s medical condition and treatment goals.
• Combination Treatments: Cupping and moxibustion may be combined with acupuncture, potentially influencing pricing depending on the complexity and integration of treatments.

Surgical and Specialized Procedures

Surgical interventions like IVF, Hip/Joint Replacement, and Weight Loss Surgery (Gastric Bypass) entail:

• Travel and Accommodation Costs: Similar to cosmetic procedures, these are notable costs for international patients.
• Additional Medical Expenses: Specific procedures may require medications (as in IVF) or rehabilitation (as in hip/joint replacements and weight loss surgery) which are critical to post-operative success.

These cost elements illustrate the range of expenses associated with Korean medical services, from preliminary consultations to post-operative care, demonstrating the multifaceted nature of medical tourism in Korea.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Korean Medicine in Korea

The cost of medical procedures and treatments in Korea is influenced by several critical factors. For surgical procedures like liposuction, rhinoplasty, and breast augmentation, the cost is primarily affected by the surgeon's experience, the location of the clinic, and the techniques used during surgery. Non-surgical procedures, like diet pill prescriptions and diet acupoint injections, depend on factors such as patient's specific needs, the type of treatment prescribed, and the number of sessions required. Herbal medicine and acupuncture also see cost variation based on the clinic's location and the practitioner's expertise and reputation. For more specialized treatments, such as IVF or weight loss surgery, additional factors like the clinic's success rates and hospital facilities play a significant role. These diverse factors contribute to the varied costs associated with traditional and modern medical practices in Korea.

Comparing the Cost of Korean Medicine: Korea vs the Rest of the World

Korea has become a hub for medical tourism, offering a wide range of procedures at competitive prices. But how do these costs compare with those in other countries around the world? We will explore the cost differences of several popular procedures.

Cost of Arm Liposuction

Though we aren't comparing Korean prices here, arm liposuction in nearby regions like Turkey can range from $1,000 to $3,500 USD.

Cost of Thigh Liposuction

Thigh liposuction can cost effectively, but one should consider Turkey's prices ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 USD.

Cost of Face Liposuction

Face liposuction is comparable in other medical tourism spots, with Turkey offering similar procedures ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 USD.

Cost of Diet Pills

In Korea, 1 month’s supply carries additional costs for customized diet plans. In USD, this ranges from about $150 to $165, reasonable for a personalized approach.

Cost of Buttocks Implants

This procedure in countries like Mexico ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 USD. Factors such as surgical expertise and follow-up care also play a significant role in cost.

Cost of Gastric Bypass

The cost of gastric bypass surgery in Mexico ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 USD. Patients should be aware of potential risks like infection and complications associated with surgery abroad.

Cost of Rhinoplasty

• Turkey: The cost ranges from $2,500 to $5,000 USD. Considerations include necessary travel and the possibility of needing follow-up surgery.
• Mexico: Rhinoplasty costs vary from $3,000 to $6,000 USD, with similar travel and accommodation costs as Turkey. It's important to verify the credentials of the medical professionals.
• Thailand: Here, you could expect to pay between $3,000 and $5,500 USD.

Cost of Breast Augmentation

• Turkey: Costs range from $3,500 to $6,000 USD. As with other surgeries, risks include inadequate post-operative care.
• Mexico: The price varies from $3,000 to $7,000 USD. Consultation about potential post-surgery risks is crucial.
• Thailand: Similar costs are from $3,500 to $5,000 USD.

Cost of Hair Transplant

• Turkey: Known for hair transplant procedures, costs range from $1,000 to $4,000 USD. Consider the clinic's experience and post-operative care.
• Mexico: Hair transplants could cost between $2,000 and $6,000 USD but require attention to the clinic's standards.

Cost of Dental Implants

• Turkey: Costs can vary from $700 to $1,200 USD. Check for ISO-certified clinics to minimize risks.
• Mexico: Typically, prices range from $800 to $1,500 USD.

Cost of IVF

• Turkey: Due to medical advancements, costs range from $2,000 to $4,000 USD. Ensure the clinic's accreditation.
• Mexico: Offers IVF procedures between $3,500 and $7,000 USD.

Cost of Hip/Joint Replacement

• Turkey: This procedure ranges between $8,000 and $12,000 USD. Verify the surgeon's experience.
• Mexico: Costs range from $9,000 to $15,000 USD.

Cost of Weight Loss Surgery (Gastric Bypass)

• Turkey: Costs vary from $4,000 to $8,000 USD. Investigate the post-operative support offered.
• Mexico: You might expect costs between $5,000 and $8,500 USD, with similar safety concerns as other locations.

Cost of Coming To Korea for Korean Medicine

Traveling to Korea for Korean Medicine involves various expenses beyond just the treatment itself. Here, we provide a breakdown of the potential costs related to travel, accommodation, and other considerations for individuals seeking medical care in Korea.

Airfare

The cost of airfare is one of the primary expenses for international travelers. Prices can vary significantly depending on the country of departure, the season, and how far in advance tickets are booked. On average, a round-trip ticket can range from $600 to $1,500. It's advisable to book flights several months in advance to secure better deals and consider flying during off-peak seasons to reduce costs.

Accommodation

Once in Korea, patients will need a place to stay. The options range from budget hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury accommodations. For a comfortable stay near medical facilities, a 3-star or 4-star hotel could cost about $70 to $150 per night. Long-term stays might benefit from serviced apartments or Airbnb rentals, which may offer discounts for extended bookings.

Transportation

Transportation within Korea is relatively affordable and efficient. The country boasts an extensive public transportation system, including subways, buses, and taxis. A public transportation card, T-money, can be used for convenience, with rides costing roughly $1 to $2. Taxis start at around $3, providing an economical option for short distances.

Meals

The cost of meals varies greatly depending on preferences. Street food and local eateries provide budget-friendly options, with meals costing around $5 to $10. Dining at mid-range restaurants might increase the cost to approximately $15 to $30 per meal. Additionally, many accommodations come with the option for in-house dining or breakfast, which can further manage expenses.

Insurance

Purchasing travel insurance is highly recommended for international medical travelers. It ensures coverage for unexpected events such as flight cancellations, lost luggage, or emergency medical situations. The cost for travel insurance typically ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the coverage level and duration of stay.

Miscellaneous Costs

Miscellaneous costs can include things such as currency exchange fees, SIM cards for local communication, and personal expenses like shopping or sightseeing. Estimating an additional $100 to $300 for these expenses is reasonable, especially if planning to partake in local attractions during the visit.

While these costs can add up, the overall expense of traveling to Korea for Korean Medicine can still be more economical compared to similar treatments in other countries. Careful planning and budgeting can help maximize the experience without unexpected financial burdens.