Table of contents

• What Is Male Menopause Treatment?
• Best Clinics in Korea for Male Menopause Treatment
• Male Menopause Treatment in Korea
• Cost of Male Menopause Treatment in Korea
• Alternatives to Male Menopause Treatment
• Conclusion

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This article introduces what male menopause (andropause) treatment involves—how clinicians assess age-related hormonal changes, common symptoms, and evidence-based options—then looks specifically at how care is delivered in Korea, including where to seek evaluation, typical diagnostic pathways, and what to expect from clinics and specialists. We also outline the cost of male menopause treatment in Korea, from consultation and lab fees to medication and follow-up, with notes on insurance considerations. Finally, we review alternatives to formal treatment—such as lifestyle modification, mental health support, and non-hormonal strategies—highlighting their evidence, benefits, and limitations so readers can make informed decisions.

What Is Male Menopause Treatment?

Male menopause—more accurately called late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) or “andropause”—describes a gradual, age-related decline in testosterone and other androgenic hormones that can lead to sexual, physical, and psychological symptoms. Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, restore healthy hormone balance, and reduce long-term risks such as osteoporosis and metabolic disease. In Korea, LOH care is commonly provided through urology, endocrinology, and men’s health clinics, often with streamlined same-day testing and follow-up programs.

Who it is for

• Men—typically in their 40s to 70s—who have persistent symptoms compatible with androgen deficiency and confirmed low testosterone on repeat morning testing.
• Common symptoms include reduced libido or erectile difficulties, fatigue, depressed mood or irritability, decreased muscle mass and strength, increased body fat (especially abdominal), reduced shaving frequency, hot flashes or night sweats, decreased bone density or fractures, and anemia.
• Younger men can also have hypogonadism due to pituitary/testicular disorders, obesity, medications (e.g., opioids, glucocorticoids), sleep apnea, or systemic illness.
• In Korea, the term “남성 갱년기” (male climacteric) is often used; clinicians typically follow international criteria requiring both symptoms and consistently low morning total testosterone, confirmed on two separate days.

How LOH is diagnosed (prior to treatment)

• Symptom assessment using validated tools such as the Aging Males’ Symptoms (AMS) scale or ADAM questionnaire.
• Laboratory confirmation: two early-morning total testosterone tests (often with sex hormone–binding globulin to calculate free/bioavailable testosterone when needed).
• Additional tests to identify causes and guide safe care: LH/FSH, prolactin (to screen for pituitary issues), complete blood count/hematocrit, PSA and digital rectal exam (age/risk dependent), fasting glucose or HbA1c, fasting lipids, liver and kidney function, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and vitamin D. Bone mineral density testing is considered for osteoporosis risk.
• Differential diagnosis to rule out or address contributors such as depression, thyroid disease, uncontrolled diabetes, obesity, chronic stress, poor sleep, alcohol overuse, and obstructive sleep apnea.

Treatment options available in Korea

1. Lifestyle and comorbidity management (foundation of care)

• Structured exercise (especially resistance training), weight management, higher-protein Mediterranean-style nutrition, sleep optimization, and reduction of alcohol/tobacco can meaningfully improve symptoms and testosterone.
• Identification and treatment of sleep apnea, diabetes, dyslipidemia, thyroid disease, and depression often enhances outcomes and may be prioritized before or alongside hormone therapy.

2. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)

• Intramuscular injections
  • Short-acting testosterone enanthate or cypionate: typically weekly to biweekly dosing; allows fine dose adjustments.
  • Long-acting testosterone undecanoate: loading dose, then maintenance roughly every 10–14 weeks. Widely used in Korea for its convenience and stable levels.
• Transdermal preparations
  • Daily gels (various brands/forms): steady physiologic levels; require careful skin application and precautions to avoid transfer to others.
  • Patches: used less commonly; can cause local skin irritation.
• Oral testosterone undecanoate
  • Food-dependent absorption; availability varies by market and clinic. In Korea, use may be limited.
• Subcutaneous pellets
  • Minor procedure to implant pellets under local anesthesia with effects lasting 3–6 months; less commonly offered than injections and gels but available in select centers.

3. Fertility-preserving alternatives (for men planning children)

• Exogenous TRT can suppress sperm production. In men desiring fertility, alternatives that stimulate the body’s own testosterone include:
  • hCG injections to stimulate testicular testosterone production.
  • Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) such as clomiphene or enclomiphene to increase endogenous gonadotropins.
  • Aromatase inhibitors (in select cases) to optimize testosterone-to-estradiol balance.
• Semen analysis and reproductive endocrinology/urology collaboration are often part of the plan.

4. Symptom-targeted adjuncts

• Erectile dysfunction: PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil) can be combined with TRT if indicated.
• Bone health: vitamin D, calcium, and—in certain cases—bisphosphonates.
• Mood and cognition: psychotherapy, sleep therapy, and treatment of concurrent depression or anxiety.

How the treatment process works

• Initial visit (often same-day in Korea):
  • Detailed history and examination; symptom questionnaires.
  • Early-morning blood tests; PSA/DRE when age-appropriate; discussion of fertility goals.
  • Review of benefits, risks, and alternatives; shared decision-making.
• Starting therapy:
  • If criteria are met, TRT or a fertility-preserving regimen is initiated. Injection therapy is administered in-clinic; gels/patches require patient education on application and safety.
  • Lifestyle and comorbidity management begin concurrently.
• Monitoring and dose adjustment:
  • Clinical review and labs at 6–12 weeks to assess symptom response, serum testosterone (timed appropriately to the preparation), and safety labs.
  • Ongoing follow-up typically at 3, 6, and 12 months in the first year, then every 6–12 months:
    • Hematocrit/hemoglobin (erythrocytosis risk), PSA/DRE per age and risk, liver profile, lipids, and metabolic markers.
    • Dose adjustments target mid-normal testosterone levels while minimizing side effects.

Expected timelines for improvement

• Libido and mood: often within 3–6 weeks; sexual function may continue to improve over several months.
• Muscle strength and body composition: typically noticeable by 3–6 months with resistance training.
• Bone mineral density: improvements generally require 6–12 months or longer.
• Energy and vitality: variable; many patients report gradual gains over the first 3 months.

Risks and side effects to discuss

• Erythrocytosis (elevated hematocrit), acne or oily skin, hair loss, breast tenderness or gynecomastia, fluid retention, mood changes, and potential worsening of sleep apnea.
• Prostate-related effects: monitoring is essential; TRT is contraindicated in known or suspected prostate or male breast cancer.
• Infertility and testicular atrophy with exogenous TRT; alternatives should be used if fertility is a goal.
• Cardiovascular risk: data are mixed; careful risk assessment and shared decision-making are recommended, particularly in men with recent cardiovascular events.

Who should avoid or delay TRT

• Known or suspected prostate or male breast cancer, significantly elevated PSA without evaluation, severe untreated lower urinary tract symptoms due to BPH.
• Hematocrit above the upper limit (often >50–54%) until corrected.
• Uncontrolled heart failure, recent myocardial infarction or stroke, active thrombophilia, or severe untreated obstructive sleep apnea.
• Men trying to conceive in the near term (consider fertility-preserving therapies instead).

Access, care pathways, and practical notes in Korea

• Clinical settings: urology, endocrinology, and dedicated men’s health clinics commonly manage LOH with coordinated testing and follow-up.
• Insurance and documentation: National Health Insurance coverage may require strict criteria (symptoms plus consistently low morning testosterone within the lab’s defined range, and appropriate documentation). Some services and formulations may be self-pay depending on individual circumstances and clinic policy.
• Typical out-of-pocket costs (approximate, can vary widely by city, clinic, and insurance status):
  • Initial evaluation and labs: 100,000–300,000 KRW.
  • Long-acting testosterone undecanoate injection (per dose): ~200,000–350,000 KRW when self-pay.
  • Monthly transdermal gel: ~70,000–150,000 KRW.
  • Follow-up visits and labs: 50,000–150,000 KRW per visit.
• Many clinics offer bilingual services in major cities and can coordinate ongoing monitoring; telemedicine follow-up may be available for lab reviews and dose adjustments when regulations permit.

Choosing among treatment types

• Preference for dosing frequency and convenience (e.g., quarterly injections versus daily gels).
• Skin sensitivity, risk of transference (gels), or needle aversion.
• Desire for future fertility (favor hCG/SERMs over exogenous TRT).
• Comorbidities, travel schedules, and monitoring requirements.
• Shared decision-making with a clinician who can tailor therapy to symptoms, lab targets, and safety profile.

Best Clinics in Korea for Male Menopause Treatment

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for male menopause treatment:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Yezak Urology	- Yezak Urology Clinic in Apgujeong is one of the largest urology centers in Seoul, a men’s health hub offering specialized surgical and non-surgical care delivered by a multi-specialist team with advanced safety systems. - With 20+ years of expertise specializing in male enhancement and equipped with the latest and most advanced technology, Yezak is led by a renowned urology specialist—the developer of the 5-Point Fixed Permanent Penile Lengthening Surgery, an innovative and proven technique for safe, lasting results—bringing the same rigor and precision to comprehensive male health, including dedicated Male Menopause (Andropause) care. - Comprehensive andropause program: evaluation and treatment of age-related hormonal changes, fatigue, mood changes, and sexual symptoms, with care plans that include lifestyle optimization, targeted medications, and monitored testosterone therapy when indicated. - Multi-specialist team: coordinated care that links hormone management with sexual function, urinary health, and overall wellbeing. - Integrated services: seamless access to erectile dysfunction and prostate care so coexisting issues such as ED, BPH, or prostatitis are addressed alongside andropause therapy. - Advanced technology and safety: latest-generation equipment and robust safety systems support precise diagnostics, therapy monitoring, and patient protection. - Depth of experience: a high-volume center with 20+ years focused on men’s health, providing consistent protocols and outcomes-focused follow-up, including comprehensive general health checkups. - Proven leadership in male enhancement: guided by the developer of the 5-Point Fixed Permanent Penile Lengthening Surgery, reflecting a culture of innovation and meticulous technique that translates into careful, evidence-based andropause care.	5-Point Fixed Permanent Penile Lengthening Surgery

Yezak Urology

Yezak Urology Clinic in Apgujeong is one of the largest urology centers in Seoul, a men’s health hub offering specialized surgical and non-surgical care delivered by a multi-specialist team with advanced safety systems. With 20+ years of expertise specializing in male enhancement and equipped with the latest and most advanced technology, Yezak is led by a renowned urology specialist—the developer of the 5-Point Fixed Permanent Penile Lengthening Surgery, an innovative and proven technique for safe, lasting results—bringing the same rigor and precision to comprehensive male health, including dedicated Male Menopause (Andropause) care.

• Comprehensive andropause program: evaluation and treatment of age-related hormonal changes, fatigue, mood changes, and sexual symptoms, with care plans that include lifestyle optimization, targeted medications, and monitored testosterone therapy when indicated.
• Multi-specialist team: coordinated care that links hormone management with sexual function, urinary health, and overall wellbeing.
• Integrated services: seamless access to erectile dysfunction and prostate care so coexisting issues such as ED, BPH, or prostatitis are addressed alongside andropause therapy.
• Advanced technology and safety: latest-generation equipment and robust safety systems support precise diagnostics, therapy monitoring, and patient protection.
• Depth of experience: a high-volume center with 20+ years focused on men’s health, providing consistent protocols and outcomes-focused follow-up, including comprehensive general health checkups.
• Proven leadership in male enhancement: guided by the developer of the 5-Point Fixed Permanent Penile Lengthening Surgery, reflecting a culture of innovation and meticulous technique that translates into careful, evidence-based andropause care.

You can check out their website here: Yezak Urology Website

Male Menopause Treatment in Korea

Getting evaluated and treated for “male menopause” (more accurately, age-related testosterone deficiency or late-onset hypogonadism) in Korea is a structured, efficient experience that blends thorough diagnostics with clear follow-up. Here’s what a typical journey looks like, from first contact to ongoing care.

What “male menopause” means in practice

• In Korea, doctors generally use clinical guidelines similar to international standards: symptoms suggestive of androgen deficiency plus repeatedly low morning testosterone on blood tests.
• Common symptoms discussed include low energy, decreased libido, erectile changes, depressed mood or irritability, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, reduced motivation, sleep changes, and difficulty concentrating.
• The goal of care is to confirm whether low testosterone is actually the cause, rule out other conditions, and personalize treatment that balances benefits and risks.

Why patients choose Korea

• Streamlined access: Large academic hospitals and specialized men’s health/urology/endocrinology clinics can perform most tests in a single visit.
• English-friendly services: “International Healthcare Centers” at major hospitals provide coordinators, interpreters, and consolidated scheduling.
• Evidence-based care: Clinics follow Korean and international guidelines, with careful monitoring for safety (prostate health, blood counts, cardiovascular status).
• Predictable logistics: Same-day labs, rapid results reporting via hospital apps, and clearly defined monitoring schedules.

Before your visit: planning and booking

• Appointment setup: International clinics accept online requests; you’ll typically be asked for a brief symptom history and any prior lab results.
• What to bring: Medication list, past lab reports, records of prostate evaluations, sleep study reports if you have sleep apnea, and fertility history if relevant.
• Fasting and timing: You’ll often be scheduled for an early-morning, fasting blood draw (testosterone is highest in the morning). Expect that most clinicians will want two separate morning measurements.
• Insurance and payment: Residents with National Health Insurance may receive partial coverage when criteria are met. Medical tourists pay out-of-pocket; cards are widely accepted. Coordinators can provide estimates.

Your first day at the clinic

• Check-in: You’ll register (passport or ID), sign consent forms in Korean/English, and receive a queue number. International centers fast-track foreigners and provide interpretation.
• Consultation (30–60 minutes): A urologist or endocrinologist takes a detailed symptom history; questionnaires like the Aging Males’ Symptoms scale may be used. You’ll discuss lifestyle, sleep, alcohol intake, exercise, and mental health. A physical exam may include a blood pressure check, body composition analysis (common in Korea), and a digital rectal exam if indicated for prostate screening.
• Labs and screening:
  • Morning total testosterone (and often free testosterone or sex hormone-binding globulin)
  • LH/FSH to assess pituitary–testicular axis
  • Prolactin if libido/erectile dysfunction or very low testosterone
  • PSA and a prostate assessment when age-appropriate or if symptoms suggest benign prostatic hyperplasia
  • Complete blood count (to track hematocrit), metabolic panel, lipids, HbA1c, thyroid panel
  • Estradiol may be added in select cases
• Additional tests are individualized: sleep apnea screening, testicular ultrasound, or pituitary imaging if red flags appear (very low testosterone with low/normal gonadotropins, nipple discharge, severe headaches, or visual changes).

How results and diagnosis are confirmed

• Turnaround: Routine labs often return the same day or within 24 hours. You’ll typically be asked to repeat the morning testosterone on a separate day to confirm low levels before treatment.
• Differential diagnosis: Korean clinicians are systematic about excluding depression, thyroid disease, medication effects (opioids, steroids), heavy alcohol use, obesity-related functional hypogonadism, and uncontrolled sleep apnea.
• Shared decision-making: If confirmed hypogonadism is diagnosed, you’ll discuss goals (sexual function, energy, mood, body composition), fertility plans, and risk tolerance.

Treatment options you’ll be offered

• Lifestyle optimization (often initiated for everyone): Structured plans for sleep hygiene, resistance training, weight management, alcohol moderation, and stress/mental health support. Many centers include dietitian consults and InBody scans for baseline and follow-up.
• Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), if appropriate and not contraindicated:
  • Topical gels: Applied daily to shoulders/upper arms or abdomen. Nurses demonstrate application, drying time, and transfer precautions (avoid skin-to-skin contact until dry).
  • Long-acting intramuscular injections: Typically administered in-clinic at intervals of several weeks to a few months; favored for convenience and steady levels. You can schedule nurse visits or, in select cases, receive training for supervised self-injection.
  • Short-acting injections: Given weekly or biweekly, allowing finer dose adjustments; usually clinic-administered at first.
  • Oral testosterone may be available in some cases, though gels and injections are more common for long-term therapy.
• Fertility-preserving approaches: If you wish to maintain or improve fertility, expect a discussion of alternatives such as selective estrogen receptor modulators or hCG-based regimens. Sperm banking may be recommended prior to TRT.
• Integrative options: Some hospital networks have traditional Korean medicine departments offering adjunctive therapies (e.g., acupuncture, herbal medicine). Physicians will usually emphasize that evidence for improving testosterone itself is limited, but symptom-focused adjuncts may be discussed.

What the treatment day feels like

• For gel initiation:
  • A nurse or pharmacist reviews application technique, skin preparation, and safety (handwashing after use, covering the site before contact with others, avoiding water exposure for a set period).
  • You’ll receive a written plan outlining when to apply and what to do if you miss a dose.
  • Expect a follow-up morning testosterone lab in several weeks to titrate the dose.
• For injection visits:
  • Brief vitals check and symptom review.
  • Intramuscular injection in the gluteal or thigh muscle; most patients describe brief pressure or mild soreness.
  • You can sit in a short observation area afterward. Staff provide a schedule for the next dose and lab timing.
• Pharmacy pickup:
  • Hospital pharmacies are on-site with numbered windows. Labels and instructions can be printed in English. Staff confirm potential interactions and storage instructions.

Monitoring and follow-up cadence

• Early follow-up: 6–12 weeks after starting or changing therapy, with labs typically including testosterone, hematocrit/hemoglobin, PSA (as indicated), liver function, and lipids. Symptom scores are repeated.
• Stabilization phase: Every 3–6 months in the first year, then every 6–12 months once stable.
• What doctors watch for:
  • Erythrocytosis (elevated hematocrit)
  • Worsening lower urinary tract symptoms
  • Acne, oily skin, hair loss acceleration
  • Gynecomastia or breast tenderness
  • Mood/sleep changes; monitoring for untreated sleep apnea
  • Edema or changes in blood pressure
• Dose adjustments are common in the first few months to balance symptom relief with safe lab parameters.

If you have contraindications or special circumstances

• Prostate cancer, male breast cancer, markedly elevated hematocrit, uncontrolled severe sleep apnea, or recent significant cardiovascular events typically preclude immediate TRT.
• Men planning children soon are counseled that standard TRT can suppress sperm production; fertility-preserving strategies are considered first.
• If obesity, diabetes, or sleep apnea are major drivers, physicians may prioritize treating those conditions alongside or before TRT.

The care environment and communication style

• Clinics are clean, modern, and highly digitized. Numbered queues and electronic boards guide you from lab to imaging to pharmacy.
• Many centers use hospital apps or text messages (often via KakaoTalk) to share appointments, lab results, and reminders. International clinics provide English summaries and email contact.
• Communication is polite and concise. You’ll receive printed after-visit summaries detailing your regimen and next steps.

Typical timeline for a short medical trip

• Day 1: Morning labs and initial consult; prostate assessment as indicated.
• Day 2 or 3: Second morning testosterone. If criteria are met and no contraindications, therapy may begin.
• Weeks 6–12: Follow-up labs and visit (can sometimes be coordinated to occur before you depart, or arranged with your local doctor and shared back to Korea).
• Ongoing: Many patients pair Korea-based physician oversight with local lab testing between trips.

Cost ranges (approximate, subject to clinic and exchange rates)

• Initial specialist consult: USD 80–200 at international clinics.
• Lab package (hormones, CBC, chemistry, PSA, lipids, thyroid): USD 120–300.
• Imaging or specialized tests: As indicated, priced separately.
• TRT:
  • Gels: roughly USD 70–150 per month.
  • Injections: per-visit medication plus administration can range from USD 80–350 depending on formulation and interval.
• Follow-up visits and labs: typically less than the initial evaluation; bundled packages are common. Coordinators can provide quotes before you travel.

Practical tips for a smooth experience

• Book morning slots and fast if instructed to ensure accurate testosterone measurements.
• Bring or request English-language copies of results for your records and for coordination with a home-country physician.
• Ask about side-effect red flags and what to do if they appear between visits.
• Discuss travel timing if you’re starting injections so you won’t miss scheduled doses.
• If privacy is important, request a male or female chaperone for examinations; hospitals will accommodate.

What improvements to expect and when

• Libido, energy, and mood changes may be noticed within weeks if low testosterone is the primary driver; body composition improvements typically lag and require exercise and nutrition support.
• Not all symptoms stem from testosterone deficiency; Korean clinicians are candid about when to expect modest versus substantial benefits and will adjust the plan accordingly.

Safety net and escalation pathways

• If labs show rising hematocrit or PSA changes, expect prompt calls and a clear plan: dose adjustment, temporary holds, or referral to urology/hematology for evaluation.
• Sleep symptoms may trigger referral for a home or lab-based sleep study, which hospitals can arrange quickly.
• Mental health support is readily available, and referral is common when mood symptoms predominate.

Leaving Korea and continuing care

• You’ll receive a written plan with monitoring intervals, target lab windows, and contact information.
• Many centers will coordinate with your local physician, sharing summaries and accepting outside labs to reduce repeat testing.
• Medication refills can be arranged for a limited window, but ongoing prescriptions typically require periodic follow-up and labs to meet safety standards.

Cost of Male Menopause Treatment in Korea

Male “menopause” (andropause) care in Korea typically involves specialist consultations, diagnostic labs, and, when indicated, hormone optimization such as testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) via injections, gels, or pellets. Official nationwide “high/low” benchmark prices are not published (based on high & low Korean price range: N/AN/A), so the figures below reflect common self-pay quotes from major private clinics and international patient centers in Korea as of 2025. Prices are shown in USD; KRW equivalents use ~₩1,300 = $1 and will vary by exchange rate and clinic.

What drives cost

• Your treatment pathway (injections vs. long‑acting injection vs. gels vs. pellets vs. non‑testosterone options)
• Number of follow-ups and lab monitoring
• Clinic type (community clinic vs. university hospital/international clinic)
• Optional add-ons (DEXA, imaging, executive health checkups, translation services)

Typical medical cost breakdown

• Initial specialist consultation (urology/endocrinology): $60–$200 (₩78,000–₩260,000)
• Baseline labs (testosterone, SHBG/free T, LH/FSH, estradiol, prolactin, PSA, CBC/CMP, lipids ± thyroid/HbA1c): $150–$450 (₩195,000–₩585,000)
• Optional imaging
  • DEXA scan (bone density): $60–$120 (₩78,000–₩156,000)
  • Prostate ultrasound (if indicated): $80–$200 (₩104,000–₩260,000)
• Testosterone therapy options (choose one, typical self-pay pricing)
  • Short-acting injections (testosterone enanthate/cypionate): medication $20–$50 per shot + $20–$60 admin; monthly total $60–$180 (₩78,000–₩234,000)
  • Long-acting injection (testosterone undecanoate, e.g., Nebido, every 10–14 weeks): $180–$350 per dose + $30–$70 clinic fee; 3–4 doses/year: $600–$1,600 (₩780,000–₩2,080,000)
  • Transdermal gels: $40–$120 per month (₩52,000–₩156,000)
  • Pellets (where available): $500–$1,000 per insertion, lasting ~3–6 months; annual $1,000–$2,000 (₩1,300,000–₩2,600,000)
  • Oral testosterone undecanoate (where used): $30–$80 per month (₩39,000–₩104,000)
  • Alternatives when fertility is a priority (e.g., clomiphene or hCG): $25–$120 per month (₩32,500–₩156,000) plus monitoring labs
• Follow-up visits and monitoring (typically every 3 months after initiation)
  • Follow-up consult: $40–$120 (₩52,000–₩156,000)
  • Monitoring labs (hematocrit, testosterone, PSA ± estradiol/lipids): $80–$200 (₩104,000–₩260,000)
  • Annual monitoring total: $480–$1,000 (₩624,000–₩1,300,000)
• Optional add-ons
  • Executive health checkups: $600–$2,500 (₩780,000–₩3,250,000) depending on scope
  • International patient coordination/translation: $50–$200 (₩65,000–₩260,000) per visit or package

Estimated first-year medical totals (self-pay)

• Injections or gels pathway: about $900–$2,500 (₩1,170,000–₩3,250,000)
• Long-acting undecanoate (Nebido-type): about $1,100–$2,200 (₩1,430,000–₩2,860,000)
• Pellets: about $1,600–$3,200 (₩2,080,000–₩4,160,000)

Non-medical travel costs to plan for

• Roundtrip flights to Seoul (economy, typical)
  • From North America: $800–$1,500
  • From Europe: $700–$1,200
  • From Southeast Asia: $200–$500
  • From Australia/New Zealand: $600–$1,100
  • From Middle East: $700–$1,200
  • Business class is often 2.5–4× economy fares
• Visa/entry
  • K-ETA (for eligible nationalities): ~$8–$10
  • Visa (if required): ~$40–$80
• Travel medical insurance: $30–$80 for a 1-week trip (policy-dependent)
• Local transportation in Seoul (1 week)
  • Airport rail (AREX)/limousine bus: $8–$15 one-way; taxi to city: $50–$80
  • Subway and buses: ~$1.2–$1.5 per ride; plan $25–$60 for a week
  • Occasional taxis: add $20–$60 for a week depending on usage
• Lodging (per night)
  • Budget guesthouse/hostel: $25–$60
  • Mid-range hotel/business hotel: $70–$150
  • Serviced apartment: $90–$180
• Food (per day)
  • Budget: $15–$30
  • Mid-range: $30–$60
• Connectivity: SIM/eSIM with data $15–$40 per week
• Interpretation/escort services (if not included by clinic): $30–$60 per hour; many clinics bundle services for $100–$300 per day

Sample 7-day trip budgets (excluding long-term medication after you return home)

• From Southeast Asia, starting injections
  • Flight $200–$500 + local stay $400–$800 + initial care (consult + labs + first injections) $300–$700
  • Total: approximately $900–$2,000
• From North America or Europe, starting long-acting injection
  • Flight $700–$1,500 + local stay $600–$1,200 + initial care (consult + labs + first dose) $400–$900
  • Total: approximately $1,700–$3,600

Ways to manage costs

• Ask for an international-patient quote that bundles consult, labs, and first treatment.
• Confirm whether monitoring labs can be completed back home to reduce repeat travel.
• Compare therapy types over a 12-month horizon; lower monthly costs (injections) may require more visits, while long-acting options shift costs into fewer, larger payments.
• Check whether clinics offer tax receipts; most medically necessary services are VAT-exempt in Korea, but cosmetic/optional add-ons may not be.

Alternatives to Male Menopause Treatment

1) Lifestyle and metabolic optimization

For many men with age-related symptoms (fatigue, low libido, brain fog, increased belly fat), structured changes in movement, sleep, diet, and alcohol/tobacco use can improve wellbeing and modestly raise endogenous testosterone—without hormone therapy.

• Exercise: Combine resistance training (2–3 days/week targeting major muscle groups) with regular aerobic activity. Strength training improves muscle mass, insulin sensitivity, mood, and sexual function.
• Weight management: Reducing visceral fat is strongly linked to improved hormone balance. Sustainable approaches include higher-protein meals, more vegetables and fiber, and limiting ultra-processed foods and late-night eating.
• Sleep and sleep apnea: Consistent 7–9 hours of sleep supports testosterone production. If you snore, have morning headaches, or unrefreshing sleep, ask your doctor about a sleep study; treating obstructive sleep apnea often improves energy, mood, and erectile function.
• Stress and alcohol: Mindfulness-based stress reduction, breathing exercises, and limiting alcohol (especially binge drinking) help normalize cortisol and support sexual health. Smoking cessation also improves vascular health and erectile function.
• How to start in Korea: Use NHIS-covered health screenings to check weight, blood pressure, glucose, and lipids; many local public health centers and community sports facilities offer affordable programs. Dietitian counseling is available at larger hospitals, and smoking cessation support is offered through public health centers and national programs.

2) Symptom‑targeted, non‑hormonal care

If your main concerns are specific (e.g., erectile dysfunction, low mood, poor sleep), focused non-hormonal treatments can be effective and are widely available in Korea.

• Sexual health
  • PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil) improve erectile function for many men. Do not use with nitrate medications or in certain heart conditions—review with your physician.
  • Vacuum erection devices and pelvic floor physical therapy can enhance outcomes, particularly when medications are not suitable.
  • Couples or sex therapy addresses performance anxiety and communication, boosting treatment success.
• Mood, motivation, and cognition
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy and counseling help with stress, irritability, and low mood. If clinical depression or anxiety is present, your doctor may recommend evidence-based medications or therapy.
  • Address daytime sleepiness and concentration by optimizing sleep and evaluating for sleep apnea or restless legs if symptoms suggest.
• Vasomotor and sleep symptoms
  • Cooling strategies, regular exercise, and limiting spicy foods/alcohol may ease night sweats and hot flashes (less common but possible in men).
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT‑I) is first-line for sleep difficulties; short-term sleep aids or melatonin may be considered with medical guidance.
• Medical review
  • Many medications and conditions (e.g., thyroid disease, anemia, diabetes, chronic pain) can mimic “andropause.” A targeted workup and medication review by an internist, urologist, or endocrinologist can correct reversible causes without testosterone.

3) Integrative options available in Korea (evidence‑informed)

Complementary therapies can be used alongside conventional care to reduce symptoms. Discuss these with your clinician to ensure safety and coordination.

• Acupuncture: May help with stress, sleep, and musculoskeletal pain, which indirectly improves energy and sexual function. Treatments by licensed practitioners are common and partially covered in many settings.
• Korean red ginseng: Some studies suggest modest benefits for erectile function and fatigue. Choose quality‑verified products and avoid if you take anticoagulants or have uncontrolled hypertension; monitor for interactions with diabetes or blood pressure medications.
• Mind–body practices: Yoga, tai chi, qigong, and guided mindfulness reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Community classes and hospital-based programs are increasingly accessible.
• Herbal formulations: Traditional Korean Medicine clinics can tailor formulas; however, potency and interactions vary. Always inform your primary doctor to prevent liver, kidney, or drug‑interaction risks.

Conclusion

In summary, male menopause treatment (andropause care) begins with careful evaluation to confirm the cause of symptoms and then tailors management through lifestyle optimization, targeted symptom relief, and, when appropriate, monitored testosterone therapy. In Korea, patients can access modern urology, endocrinology, and men’s health clinics that emphasize evidence-based protocols, comprehensive labs, and integrated support for nutrition, sleep, and mental health, helping align treatment with individual goals and safety. Costs in Korea vary by clinic, the extent of diagnostic testing, choice of therapy (e.g., topical, injectable, or no hormonal treatment), and follow-up frequency; patients should clarify what is included in consultation, laboratory, and medication fees and review any insurance or package coverage before starting. For those with mild symptoms or who are not candidates for hormone therapy, alternatives such as exercise, weight management, improved sleep, stress reduction, psychotherapy, treatment of comorbidities (e.g., depression or sleep apnea), and cautious use of supplements under medical guidance can provide meaningful benefit. Ultimately, the best outcomes come from partnering with a qualified clinician in Korea to weigh risks and benefits, set clear expectations, and establish regular monitoring for prostate health, cardiovascular risk, hematocrit, and fertility considerations.