Table of contents

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

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

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Have you ever wondered why South Korea has become a global leader in vision correction surgery? With its cutting-edge medical technology, highly skilled surgeons, and affordable prices, Korea stands out as a prime destination for those seeking to enhance their eyesight. The cost of procedures like LASIK and SMILE, typically ranging from $2,064 to $3,440 USD, includes comprehensive care such as consultations, surgery, and post-operative follow-ups. Whether you're comparing options across the globe or exploring the detailed offerings in Korea, understanding these elements can guide you in making an informed decision about your vision correction journey.

Best Clinics in Korea for Vision Correction

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for vision correction:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic	Located at Gangnam Station; advanced technology and highly skilled surgeons; precise, personalized outcomes with exceptional convenience; 1:1 personalized care (same doctor for exam, surgery, and recovery); One-Day System (in-house diagnostics; diagnosis and surgery in a single day); International Patient Team for end-to-end support; convenient access for follow-ups	Patented Miracle Formula for highly precise lens power calculation; ambidextrous surgeons; SMILE LASIK; LASIK/LASEK; presbyopia cataract treatments; intraocular lens insertion; re-calibration surgery; dry eye syndrome treatment; Dream Lens
Bright Eye Clinic	Cutting-edge vision correction and cataract care; world-class technology with a highly experienced team; attracts patients from around the globe; comprehensive eye exams (pre-surgery evaluations and general eye health checkups)	SMILE Pro with VisuMax 800 (lenticule in under 10 seconds); SMILE LASIK (small incision, minimal discomfort, fast recovery); LASIK (reshape cornea for myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism); LASEK (for thin corneas); cataract removal using Lumera 700 microscope; IOL implantation with premium lens options tailored to individual visual needs
BnVIIT Eye Clinic	Over 30 years of experience and 550,000 successful eye surgeries; A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System; comprehensive surgical and non-surgical options; customized treatment plans; decades of high-volume experience that promote consistent results; efficient, cost-conscious planning	A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System; SMILE; all-laser LASIK; all-laser LASEK (PRK); PIOL (Phakic Intraocular Lenses); cataract surgery; Ortho-K Lens (Dream Lens); customizing options

Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic

Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic, located at Gangnam Station, is a comprehensive eye care center known for its advanced technology, highly skilled surgeons, and seamless patient experience. From vision correction to presbyopia and cataract solutions, the clinic delivers precise, personalized outcomes with exceptional convenience—making it a standout choice for cost-conscious patients seeking reliable, high-quality vision correction in Korea. Its dedicated International Patient Team ensures smooth scheduling, clear communication, and consistent standards of care for visitors from abroad.

• 1:1 personalized care for right-first-time outcomes: The same doctor conducts your exam, performs your surgery, and oversees recovery, reducing unnecessary repeat visits, miscommunication, and potential revision costs.
• One-Day System that saves time and money: With an in-house diagnostic system and a patented Miracle Formula for highly precise lens power calculation, both diagnosis and surgery can be completed in a single day—minimizing travel, accommodation, and time-off expenses without compromising accuracy.
• Ambidextrous surgeons for safety, symmetry, and efficiency: Operating with equal precision in both eyes ensures consistent results and reduced contact with the nasal bridge, supporting comfort, safety, and lower risk of complications that could otherwise add to total treatment costs.
• Comprehensive solutions under one roof to match budget and goals: The clinic offers SMILE LASIK, LASIK/LASEK, presbyopia cataract treatments, intraocular lens insertion, re-calibration surgery, dry eye syndrome treatment, and Dream Lens—allowing tailored choices that avoid one-size-fits-all pricing and unnecessary add-ons.
• International Patient Team for predictable, transparent care: End-to-end support helps streamline logistics, documentation, and aftercare, reducing hidden costs and stress for patients traveling to Korea.
• Convenient Gangnam Station location: Easy access cuts down on transit time and related expenses while simplifying follow-up visits.

You can check out their website here: Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic Website

Bright Eye Clinic

Bright Eye Clinic in Gangnam is a destination for cutting-edge vision correction and cataract care, combining world-class technology with seasoned expertise. Attracting patients from around the globe, the clinic delivers exceptional eye care using state-of-the-art equipment and a highly experienced team to ensure high-quality treatment and successful outcomes.

The clinic’s refractive surgery offerings include SMILE Pro with the VisuMax 800, which creates a lenticule in under 10 seconds for precise, minimally invasive correction; SMILE LASIK with a small incision for minimal discomfort and fast recovery; LASIK to reshape the cornea for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism; and LASEK for patients with thin corneas. Cataract services feature removal using the Lumera 700 microscope and IOL implantation with a range of premium lens options tailored to individual visual needs. Comprehensive eye exams—from pre-surgery evaluations for SMILE, LASIK, or cataract procedures to general eye health checkups—help determine suitability and guide patients to the most appropriate treatment.

Find more about this clinic here: Bright Eye Clinic Website

BnVIIT Eye Clinic

BnVIIT Eye Clinic (B&VIIT Eye Center) is a premier ophthalmology clinic in Gangnam, Korea, with over 30 years of experience and 550,000 successful eye surgeries. Renowned for its cutting-edge A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System and a comprehensive suite of surgical and non-surgical options, the clinic tailors care to each patient’s eyes and lifestyle. This breadth of expertise and personalization helps patients choose the most appropriate pathway, supporting excellent outcomes while making vision correction planning more efficient and cost-conscious.

• Why it stands out for cost-conscious vision correction: decades of high-volume experience that promote consistent results; an A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System that personalizes procedure selection and helps reduce the likelihood of unnecessary enhancements; a comprehensive portfolio of options that allows matching the procedure to each patient’s needs; and customized treatment plans that avoid one-size-fits-all approaches.
• SMILE: A minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to create a small lens-shaped piece of tissue within the cornea, which is then removed through a small incision to correct vision.
• All-laser LASIK: A laser-based surgical procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
• All-laser LASEK (PRK): Uses a laser to reshape the surface of the cornea after removing the thin outer layer, ideal for patients with thinner corneas.
• PIOL (Phakic Intraocular Lenses): Implantation of lenses in front of the natural lens, beneficial for patients with high refractive errors not suitable for laser procedures.
• Cataracts: Surgical removal of the cloudy lens of the eye, usually replaced with an artificial intraocular lens to restore clear vision.
• Ortho-K Lens (Dream Lens): Specially designed contact lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, providing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
• Customizing Options: Tailored treatments and procedures to meet the specific visual needs and lifestyle of each patient, ensuring optimal results and satisfaction.

Find more about this clinic here: BnVIIT Eye Clinic Website

Procedure Price	Korean Won (₩)	USD ($)
Low Price	₩3,000,000	$2200
High Price	₩5,000,000	$3600

Exchange rate as of 2025-05-22: 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD

Please note that these prices are approximate guidelines and can vary significantly based on the clinic and your individual circumstances.

Cost of Vision Correction in Korea

Vision correction surgery has become increasingly popular in South Korea due to advanced medical technologies, expert surgeons, and competitive pricing. When considering undergoing such a procedure in Korea, it's essential to understand the costs involved.

In South Korea, the cost of vision correction surgery typically ranges from 3,000,000 KRW to 5,000,000 KRW. This translates to approximately $2,064 to $3,440 USD at the exchange rate of 1 KRW = 0.000688 USD. The variation in cost can depend on factors such as the specific type of procedure, the surgeon's expertise, and the clinic's location and facilities.

It's important to note that securing your procedure in Korea usually requires a 10% upfront deposit. This initial payment helps guarantee your spot and secures the resources necessary for your surgery. By understanding these financial aspects, you can better plan and prepare for your vision correction journey in South Korea.

What Is Usually Included in Cost of Vision Correction in Korea

When considering vision correction procedures such as LASIK or SMILE surgery in Korea, it's essential to understand what is typically included in the overall cost. Korea has gained a reputation as a popular destination for these surgeries due to its advanced technology and skilled medical professionals. Here’s what is usually encompassed in the cost structure:

1. Surgical Procedure: The core component of the cost is the surgery itself, whether it's LASIK or SMILE. This includes the use of the latest technology and expertise of experienced ophthalmic surgeons.

2. Pre-Surgery Consultation and Evaluation: Before proceeding with the surgery, a comprehensive eye examination is conducted to determine the suitability of the patient for the surgery. This evaluation is usually included in the initial cost and encompasses various tests that assess visual acuity, eye health, and other critical factors.

3. Post-Operative Care: Operation costs generally cover follow-up visits to monitor the patient's recovery and address any immediate post-surgery concerns. These visits ensure that the corrective procedure has the desired outcome and that the patient is healing properly.

4. Medications: Post-surgery prescriptions such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drops, and artificial tears are typically included in the overall package to aid recovery and comfort.

5. Pre-operative and Post-operative Testing: In addition to the initial assessment, costs often cover the necessary testing before and after surgery to ensure the patient's vision is corrected to the expected standards.

While the surgery package is comprehensive, international patients should note additional considerations that could affect their total expenditure:

• Travel and Accommodation Expenses: Patients traveling from abroad must budget for travel and lodging, as these are not included in the surgical costs. Korea's hospitality industry offers a range of options to accommodate different needs and budgets.

• Potential Language Barriers: Communication can be a concern for non-Korean-speaking patients, so choosing a clinic with multilingual staff or services can be beneficial. This may incur additional charges if translation services are needed.

• Follow-up Care: Patients should plan for follow-up care once they return home. While immediate post-operative care in Korea is covered, ongoing check-ups with local healthcare providers may not be included and should be arranged independently.

By understanding what is included in the cost of vision correction in Korea, patients can better plan their journey and recovery process, ensuring they receive optimal care and results.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Vision Correction in Korea

The cost of vision correction procedures like LASIK and SMILE surgeries in Korea is influenced by several factors. Firstly, the high volume of procedures performed contributes to cost efficiency, allowing clinics to offer competitive pricing. Additionally, the overall lower cost of living and healthcare expenses in Korea compared to many Western countries makes these procedures more affordable. Furthermore, the Korean government's efforts to promote medical tourism enhance the availability and affordability of such medical services, drawing international patients seeking high-quality yet cost-effective vision correction options.

Comparing the Cost of Vision Correction: Korea vs the Rest of the World

In recent years, Korea has emerged as a prominent destination for vision correction procedures, offering competitive prices compared to many other countries. This article examines the cost of vision correction surgeries such as LASIK, Smile, and iLasik in several countries, contrasting them with the prices found in Korea.

Cost of Procedure in USA

In the USA, LASIK eye surgery can vary significantly in cost based on factors such as market, technology, and the complexity of the individual case. The price ranges from $490 to $4,000 USD, with considerations including pre-surgery consultations and post-surgery follow-ups.

Cost of Procedure in Turkey

Turkey offers competitive pricing for vision correction procedures like LASIK and Femto Lasik, with costs ranging from $1,440 to $2,500 USD. Packages often include consultations, follow-up visits, and sometimes transfers between the airport and clinic. However, potential dangers include the variability in healthcare quality and the importance of ensuring the accreditation of the facility.

Cost of Procedure in Mexico

Although not included in the data, Mexico is another popular destination for affordable LASIK procedures. As with Turkey, potential patients should be cautious of the quality of care and ensure their chosen clinic is properly certified.

Cost of Procedure in Spain

In Spain, LASIK procedures have a more uniform cost, with typical prices around $4,000 USD. This includes none of the additional package features mentioned for other countries.

Cost of Procedure in Australia

In Australia, LASIK eye surgery can range from $1,375 to $2,700 USD, while other procedures like PRK, ReLEx, and ICL have respective ranges of $1,665 to $3,440 USD. Prices generally include post-operative care and enhancement procedures, providing comprehensive coverage.

Cost of Procedure in Canada

Canada provides LASIK at a relatively affordable range from $490 to $2,890 USD. Prices may vary by market, technology used, and prescription strength, making it essential to consider these factors when budgeting for the procedure.

Cost of Procedure in India

India offers LASIK eye surgery at a cost range of $1,500 to $2,500 USD. The package typically includes pre-surgery consultations and post-surgery follow-ups, providing a comprehensive care experience at a comparatively low price.

Cost of Procedure in Thailand

Thailand offers LASIK eye surgery in the $2,000 to $3,000 USD range. As with other medical tourism destinations, patients are advised to research thoroughly to ensure quality and safety standards are met, as healthcare quality can vary.

Cost of Procedure in the UK

Vision correction procedures in the UK, such as laser eye surgery, can vary widely from $3,300 to $8,300 USD. Patients can expect to pay per eye, and the total cost often includes comprehensive care packages.

When considering vision correction surgeries abroad, it's crucial to take into account the total cost, including travel and accommodation, and the potential risks involved. Korean clinics are known for high standards and reasonable pricing, often ranging between $1,000 to $1,500 USD, without needing international travel expenses.<|vq_3073|>

Cost of Coming To Korea for Vision Correction

Travelling to South Korea for vision correction surgery can be an attractive option due to the country's advanced medical technologies and skilled ophthalmologists. However, understanding the travel costs involved is essential to making an informed decision. Here's a breakdown of the primary expenses to consider:

Flights

Airfare is often the most significant travel expense. The cost of flights to Korea can vary widely depending on your departure location, the time of year, and how far in advance you book. For instance, round-trip flights from major U.S. cities can range from $700 to $1,500 or more, while flights from Europe may start at around $600 to $1,200. It's advisable to compare prices across several airlines and consider budget carriers, if available, to find the best deal.

Accommodation

Korea offers a wide range of accommodation options to fit different budgets. Prices can range from $30 per night for budget accommodations such as hostels or guesthouses, to over $200 per night for high-end hotels. Many medical tourists opt for mid-range hotels or serviced apartments which typically cost between $70 and $150 per night. Additionally, some clinics offer package deals that include accommodation as part of their service.

Local Transportation

Getting around in Korea is relatively economical. Seoul and other major cities have efficient and affordable public transportation systems, including buses and subways. A single journey on public transport typically costs under $2. Taxis are also available and are reasonably priced, with a typical ride within Seoul costing between $5 and $20. If staying for an extended period, consider purchasing a transportation card for convenience and additional savings.

Meals and Daily Expenditures

Korean cuisine ranges from inexpensive street food to gourmet dining. You can expect to spend as little as $5 for a simple meal from a food stall, while dining at a mid-range restaurant might cost between $15 and $30 per person. In addition to meals, budget for daily necessities or leisure activities to make your stay more enjoyable, which can vary based on personal preferences.

Medical Visa and Insurance

Citizens of many countries can enter Korea without a visa for a limited period, often up to 90 days. However, if a visa is required, consider the associated costs, which can range from $30 to $90 depending on the type. Travel insurance is another crucial expense, covering unforeseen circumstances and medical emergencies not related to your procedure. Policies can start around $50 for a short visit.

By planning ahead and considering all these factors, you can ensure that your trip for vision correction in Korea is both medically successful and financially manageable.