Table of contents

• What Are Diet Pills?
• Best Clinics in Korea for Diet Pills
• Diet Pills in Korea
• Cost of Diet Pills in Korea
• Alternatives to Diet Pills
• Conclusion

Are you aware of the rising trend in Korea, where diet pills have become a sought-after solution for quick weight loss? In a nation renowned for its beauty standards, this phenomenon has led to an in-depth exploration of diet pills, their effectiveness, safety, and alternatives, as detailed in our latest article.

What Are Diet Pills?

Diet pills, also known as weight-loss pills or anti-obesity medications, include prescription drugs and selected over-the-counter diet supplements designed to support weight management. They work through mechanisms such as appetite regulation, reduced fat absorption, improved insulin signaling, delayed gastric emptying, or modest increases in energy expenditure.

Who Are Diet Pills For?

Diet pills are typically considered for adults who:

• Have a BMI ≥30, or

• Have a BMI ≥27 with obesity-related conditions (e.g., type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia), and

• Have not achieved adequate results with nutrition and physical activity alone.

Medication choice should reflect medical history, cardiometabolic risk, and patient preferences. GLP-1/dual-incretin injectables (e.g., semaglutide, tirzepatide) are now widely used globally due to superior average weight-loss outcomes versus older options, while safety monitoring and access vary by country. 

Types of Diet Pills

There are several categories of diet therapies, each acting differently to reduce body fat and support weight management:

1. Appetite Regulators / Centrally Acting Agents

• Phentermine (short-term use): Sympathomimetic that suppresses appetite; in Korea, phentermine and related agents are treated as restricted ingredients because of abuse and safety concerns, so prescribing is controlled and monitored. 

• Naltrexone/Bupropion (brand often “Contrave”): Targets reward pathways and appetite; produces ~5–10% weight loss when paired with diet and exercise. 

• Important update: Lorcaserin (Belviq) was withdrawn from the market in 2020 due to a cancer-risk signal and is no longer recommended. 

2. Fat-Absorption Inhibitors

• Orlistat (Xenical/alli): Inhibits gastrointestinal lipases and reduces fat absorption by ~25–30%. Expect gastrointestinal side effects if meals are high in fat; take with a multivitamin at a different time. Evidence supports modest weight loss when combined with lifestyle change. 

3. Incretin-Based Injectables (Weekly)

• Semaglutide (Wegovy): GLP-1 receptor agonist; approved for chronic weight management in many countries and approved in South Korea in 2023, with local launch announced/underway from October 2024. Typical weight loss averages ~15% in clinical programs. Supply and pricing have evolved with periodic shortages and recent local price cuts.   

• Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound): Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist; Korea expanded approval to include obesity in 2024, with local launch/pricing updates in 2025. Trials report ~20% mean weight loss at 72 weeks. 

4. Thermogenic “Fat Burners” (Stimulant-Containing)

Caffeine-based products may slightly increase energy expenditure, but effects are generally modest and can cause jitteriness or insomnia. Non-prescription stimulants should be used with caution and medical guidance, especially in those with cardiovascular risk. (Avoid ephedrine/ephedra products; they carry safety concerns and are tightly restricted in many jurisdictions.)

5. Herbal & Over-the-Counter Options

• Green tea / tea extract (EGCG-rich): Small but measurable effects on fat oxidation and body composition have been reported, especially when combined with exercise; however, concentrated green tea extract capsules (high EGCG doses) have been linked to rare liver injury. Choosing brewed green tea (2–4 cups/day) or food-based catechins is generally safer than high-dose pills. 

Procedure and Administration

• Prescription medicines come with dose-escalation schedules (e.g., weekly titration for GLP-1/GIP agents) and monitoring plans to maximize efficacy and reduce side effects.

• OTC options/diet supplements vary widely in quality and dose; discuss any tea extract, caffeine, or multi-ingredient products with a clinician to avoid interactions.

• Typical regimens are taken with meals (e.g., orlistat) or weekly (e.g., semaglutide/tirzepatide). Ongoing follow-up ensures healthy weight loss and helps manage gastrointestinal or neuropsychiatric side effects.

Efficacy and Safety

Medications work best alongside nutrition, sleep, stress management, and activity. Common effects include gastrointestinal symptoms (orlistat: oily stools; GLP-1s: nausea), and rare risks require individualized counseling. In Korea, misuse of aesthetic “slimming” drugs is actively monitored by regulators—GLP-1 class obesity treatments are priority surveillance targets—so expect clinics to require proper indications and follow-up. 

Best Clinics in Korea for Diet Pills

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for diet pills:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
365mc Hospital	Korea’s premier institution for obesity and body contouring, 18 clinics, over 3,000 surgical liposuctions and 5 million safe treatments, Korean Health Ministry Seal, team of 22 main doctors, state-of-the-art facilities, seven-week post-op program, Recovery Center, comprehensive dietary guidance	AI-enhanced M.A.I.L. System, non-invasive LAMS procedure, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, digital meal diaries, tailored follow-up and education
365mc Hospital - Sinsa	Leading clinic in Seoul for obesity management, focus on patient safety and innovative technology, specialized in abdomen, arm, thigh, love handles, and face liposuction, highly trained professionals, personalized care	Minimally invasive LAMS (Liposuction Assisted Morphological Surgery), specialized area-targeted liposuction
Three Wishes Clinic - Myeongdong	High patient satisfaction, popular with locals and internationals, focus on safety and professionalism, modern aesthetic medicine, one-minute walk from Myeongdong Station	Petite enhancements (Botox, fillers, fat dissolving injections), thread lifting, vaginal rejuvenation, Shurink ultrasound lifting, CO2 laser resurfacing, laser hair removal, acne treatments, semi-permanent makeup

365mc Hospital

365mc Hospital stands as Korea’s premier institution dedicated exclusively to the treatment of obesity and body contouring. With more than two decades of expertise, 365mc has become a trusted name throughout Asia, performing over 3,000 successful surgical liposuctions and five million safe treatments across their network of 18 clinics. The hospital’s commitment to safety and precision surpasses national standards and has been recognized with the Korean Health Ministry Seal. Leveraging a team of 22 main doctors, 365mc delivers top-notch surgical care in a setting that rivals the advanced facilities of major medical schools, ensuring optimal results whether patients seek traditional or advanced liposuction.

Innovation and personalized care are the hallmarks of 365mc’s approach. The hospital has pioneered advanced liposuction technologies—including the AI-enhanced M.A.I.L. System developed in partnership with Microsoft—to maximize safety and sculpting accuracy. Patients receive one-on-one intensive care post-surgery at a dedicated Recovery Center and embark on a structured seven-week follow-up program featuring treatments such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy and guided dietary counseling. Beyond surgical solutions, 365mc offers the cutting-edge LAMS procedure for those seeking non-invasive fat reduction with minimal downtime. Comprehensive, individualized dietary guidance—supported by digital meal diaries and ongoing educational programs—ensures sustainable long-term results. By blending technological progress with compassionate, tailored care, 365mc Hospital has redefined excellence in obesity management and body contouring for its diverse clientele.

You can check out their website here: 365mc Hospital Website

365mc Hospital - Sinsa

365mc Hospital - Sinsa Branch is a leading clinic in Seoul specializing in advanced procedures for obesity management and body contouring. With a focus on both effective results and patient safety, the Sinsa clinic offers a range of innovative treatments utilizing the latest medical technology. Their expert team is renowned for performing specialized liposuction procedures, including abdomen, arm, thigh, love handles, and face liposuction. These procedures are designed to target stubborn fat in specific areas, resulting in smoother and more balanced body profiles.

Aside from traditional liposuction, the clinic is also known for minimally invasive techniques like LAMS (Liposuction Assisted Morphological Surgery). This method provides precise body contouring with shorter recovery times. Every procedure at 365mc Sinsa is performed by highly trained medical professionals, ensuring personalized care and optimal outcomes for each client. Through a commitment to excellence and responsible treatment, 365mc Hospital has established itself as a top destination for those seeking safe and effective obesity solutions in South Korea.

You can check out their website here: 365mc Hospital - Sinsa Website

Three Wishes Clinic - Myeongdong

Three Wishes Clinic, located just a minute’s walk from Myeongdong Station exit 9 in Seoul, stands at the forefront of modern aesthetic medicine. Renowned for its high patient satisfaction and reputable service, the clinic is a popular choice for both locals and international visitors seeking personalized beauty and wellness solutions. Patient reviews consistently highlight the clinic’s commitment to safety, professionalism, and the use of advanced techniques.

The clinic offers an extensive range of treatments for facial and body aesthetics, including petite enhancements such as Botox, fillers, fat dissolving injections, and thread lifting for non-surgical contouring and rejuvenation. In addition, specialized procedures like vaginal rejuvenation, cutting-edge skin therapies including Shurink ultrasound lifting, CO2 laser resurfacing, laser hair removal, and acne treatments are available. With the addition of semi-permanent makeup services, Three Wishes Clinic provides comprehensive care, ensuring clients achieve natural and lasting results in a trusted, expert-led environment.

You can check out their website here: Three Wishes Clinic - Myeongdong Website

Diet Pills in Korea

In South Korea, interest in weight management is high, but treatment is structured and medicalized:

Initial Consultation

You’ll typically meet an internal-medicine, endocrinology, family-medicine, or obesity-medicine physician. The visit covers medical history, medications, sleep, diet, labs (e.g., lipids, A1c), and goal-setting.

Prescription and Regulations

Korea emphasizes prescription-based therapies to enhance safety. GLP-1/dual-incretin injectables (semaglutide, tirzepatide) are now available locally; phentermine and similar sympathomimetics are tightly controlled; and clinicians will screen for contraindications (e.g., pregnancy, certain endocrine or psychiatric conditions). 

Follow-Up Visits

Expect dose titration, side-effect management (e.g., anti-nausea strategies for GLP-1s), and periodic labs. Visits are typically every 4–8 weeks initially.

Diet and Lifestyle Counseling

Most clinics provide or refer to dietitians/exercise programs. Emphasis is on sustainable calorie balance, protein adequacy, resistance training, and cardio to preserve lean mass and maximize body fat reduction.

Safety and Side Effects

Providers review pancreatitis history, gallbladder disease risk, thyroid issues, and mental health. Report severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of liver issues promptly—especially if taking concentrated diet supplements like high-dose green tea extract.

Integration with Traditional Methods

Some clinics integrate Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM)—such as acupuncture and herbal formulations—as adjuncts. Evidence quality varies, so these are typically additive to (not replacements for) evidence-based pharmacotherapy.

Costs and Insurance

For aesthetic/obesity indications, most medicines (including GLP-1s) are not covered by NHIS, so patients pay out-of-pocket. Pricing can change quickly due to supply and competition (see ranges below). 

Cost of Diet Pills in Korea

Costs vary by medication, dose, clinic, and recent pricing updates:

• • Wegovy (semaglutide): After 2025 price cuts, starter doses have been reported around ₩220,000 per month, with higher doses historically ranging ~₩400,000–₩600,000+; actual retail depends on pharmacy/clinic. Expect separate consultation fees. 

  • Mounjaro/tirzepatide (obesity indication): Early local reports suggest supply prices for low doses around ₩278,000; retail to patients varies by markup and dose. 

• • Naltrexone/Bupropion (Contrave): List prices can be high but may be reduced via programs; confirm local availability and clinic pricing. 

  • Orlistat: Generally less expensive than GLP-1s; exact KRW pricing varies by brand and pharmacy.

• Clinic fees: Typical initial consult ₩50,000–₩150,000, with lower follow-ups (varies by clinic). 

Traveling to Korea solely to buy medication is not recommended. Import rules are strict, and many prescription obesity drugs require local evaluation. Always verify personal import/visa and medication rules before travel. (General import restrictions and narcotics rules are strictly enforced.) 

Flight & Stay (if combining with broader care)

Typical flight and lodging costs fluctuate by season and origin; if you plan broader medical care, budget for additional consults, labs, and follow-ups.

Alternatives to Diet Pills

Medication is only one tool. Evidence-based non-drug approaches can deliver meaningful, sustainable results and often improve response to medication:

1. Dietary Modifications

Adopt a protein-forward, fiber-rich pattern emphasizing minimally processed foods. This supports satiety and preserves lean mass while reducing body fat.

Examples:

• Optimize protein (≈1.2–1.6 g/kg/day if feasible).

• Choose whole grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, nuts/seeds; limit ultra-processed snacks and sugar-sweetened beverages.

• Consider swapping sugary drinks for green tea to add catechins without excess calories.

2. Regular Physical Activity

Combine resistance training (2–3×/week) with moderate-to-vigorous cardio (150–300 min/week). Exercise improves cardiometabolic health and helps maintain weight loss; pairing training with catechin-rich beverages (like green tea) has shown small additional body-composition benefits in some studies. 

3. Behavioral Therapy

Use structured goal-setting, food/activity tracking, sleep hygiene, and stress reduction. Cognitive-behavioral strategies help maintain habits long-term.

Note on “natural” products: Some diet supplements (e.g., concentrated tea extract) can interact with medications or stress the liver at high doses. Favor food-first strategies and discuss supplements with your clinician. 

Conclusion

Diet pills in Korea are part of a medical, stepwise approach to weight management—with increased use of GLP-1 and dual-incretin therapies for durable reductions in body fat, and tighter monitoring of misuse. Older agents (e.g., orlistat, naltrexone/bupropion, short-term phentermine) still play targeted roles based on patient profile and access, while green tea and other lifestyle habits remain foundational.

If you’re considering treatment, start with a medical evaluation, align on realistic goals, and layer medication onto nutrition, activity, sleep, and behavioral support. Be cautious with over-the-counter diet supplements (including concentrated green tea extract) and verify local regulations, costs, and follow-up availability before you begin.