Korea is famous for its advanced beauty and medical procedures, but did you know treatments here can cost up to 50% less than in the U.S.? From skin-lifting procedures to high-tech laser treatments, many American machines and premium services are more affordable in Korea. In this guide, we’ll break down the price differences for popular procedures and share tips on how to choose the right clinic for safe and effective results.
* The prices in this blog are approximate and may vary depending on the procedure and clinic.
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Things to Keep in Mind
When considering beauty and medical treatments, remember: expensive doesn’t always mean professional, and cheap doesn’t automatically mean low quality. Sometimes high prices include hidden costs or brand premiums.
So instead of just looking at price, ask yourself: “Do I really need this?” and “Can I afford it?” More importantly, check the clinic’s legitimacy and professionalism. Make sure the clinic follows medical regulations, the doctors are licensed, and reviews and reputations are solid. Also, equipment and medications should be sourced transparently and meet safety standards. Before any procedure, the medical staff should explain everything clearly.
While many countries offer high-quality treatments, Korea is often preferred for “Korean-made” procedures. Why? Korean clinics have doctors highly experienced with these techniques, and treatments are generally more affordable than in the U.S. or Europe.
Korean clinics also update equipment and supplies faster than most other countries, so treatments are state-of-the-art. Plus, medical tourists can benefit from tax refunds, making Korea an attractive option for both quality and cost.
But how to make sure that a clinic is reliable? We recommend booking through a trusted intermediary like Creatrip that ensures clinics are verified and compliant with regulations.
Creatrip is fully licensed under Korea’s “Act on Support for Overseas Expansion of Medical Services and Attraction of International Patients.” It holds the official Foreign Patient Attraction Business Registration Certificate, allowing us to legally offer and promote medical and beauty service bookings on our own platforms and affiliated sites.
Creatrip Inc.
Foreign Patient Attraction Business Registration Certificate
Registration No: A-2019-01-01-3686
Because of this certification, the Korean government oversees and manages our operations, ensuring strong protection for Creatrip users. We also pay taxes properly and follow all regulations. All the clinics and hospitals we partner with are government-certified legal institutions, so you can trust your experience is safe and secure.
From dermatology to eye care to dental aesthetics, these clinics are carefully selected to ensure safety, quality, and local trust. Some treatments are even exclusive to Creatrip, giving you special services and benefits only when booked through them.
[Blog] Why should you book Korean medical beauty/medical services on Creatrip?
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound): Korea vs U.S.
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-invasive ultrasound device produced in Korea and approved by multiple countries' FDA equivalents. In Korea, it’s one of the most commonly used devices for skin lifting. Since it’s locally manufactured, the treatment cost in Korea is quite affordable. A full-face procedure usually requires 600–900 shots.
Some people may feel that HIFU is relatively mild. Compared to stronger lifting treatments, it focuses more on maintenance. A touch-up every 3–6 months is recommended to maintain long-term lifting results.
Version/Device | Korea | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
SHURINK 3rd Generation HIFU Korean Ultrasound Device | KRW 220,000-300,000 (220000-300000) | $500-1,000 |
SHURINK UNIVERSE 4th Generation HIFU Korean Ultrasound Device Universe Edition | KRW 300,000-400,000 (300000-400000) | $500-1,000 |
[Blog] Korea 'Haifu Ultrasonic' Differences/Price Comparison
Thermage: Korea vs U.S.
Phoenix Radiofrequency, made in the United States, is widely regarded as one of the most powerful and effective non-invasive lifting treatments in medical beauty. In general, it is noticeably more intense than HIFU ultrasound in terms of pain.
But true beauty lovers don’t shy away from a little discomfort! While it can be painful, Thermage delivers impressive results. The effects become most noticeable about a month after the treatment and can last over a year. For many, a single annual session is enough, making it especially appealing for people in their 30s who want a more aggressive approach to skincare.
Procedure | Korea | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
THERMAGE | KRW 2,000,000-4,000,000 (2000000-4000000) | $2500-5000+ |
* based on 600-shot, 1 session
Juvederm: Korea vs U.S.
Compared to Korean-made hyaluronic acid, many people prefer American-made Juvéderm. It offers a wide range of formulas for different areas, including under-eye fillers, facial contouring, dark circle reduction, neck lines, and more, making it a versatile choice for facial rejuvenation.
Procedure | Korea | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
JUVEDERM | KRW 270000-350000 (270000-350000) | $450-650 |
* based on 1cc units
Laser Eye Surgery: Korea vs U.S.
Laser vision correction technology in South Korea is highly advanced, with some clinics among the few worldwide certified by German ZEISS for over 100,000 successful SMILE procedures with zero incidents. Two of these clinics (Gangnam Bright Eye Clinic and Gangnam B&VIIT Eye Clinic) are in South Korea.
Because the technology has been established for years, SMILE laser pricing in Korea is transparent and often much more affordable than in other countries. Recovery is quick, with most patients able to resume normal activities the next day, making South Korea a top destination for medical tourism.
Procedure | Korea | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
SMILE LASIK / SMILE PRO LASIK | KRW 2,300,000-2,400,000 (2300000-2400000) | $2,000-$3,500 |
[Blog] What kind of person is suitable to come to Korea for LASIK eye surgery?
Botox (Neuronox): Korea vs U.S.
Neuronox is Korea’s first domestically produced Botox and has the longest track record in the country. In most Korean aesthetic clinics, when you see “Korean Premium Botox,” it’s usually Neuronox.
Some people believe Korean Botox wears off faster or causes resistance, but results actually depend more on individual physiology and previous Botox treatments. A consultation with a doctor before treatment is always recommended.
Procedure | Korea | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
NEURONOX | KRW 15,000-80,000 (15000-80000) | $200-450 |
[Blog] Korea 'Botox' Recommendation/Price Comparison
Botox (Xeomin): Korea vs U.S.
Xeomin, a German-made botulinum toxin, has a strong presence in Korea and competes closely with U.S. brands.
Many patients feel that Xeomin tends to last a bit longer, though this can vary depending on the individual. As always, it’s best to consult with a licensed doctor to determine the right injection sites and dosage, and to set realistic expectations about duration and results.
Procedure | Korea | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
XEOMIN | KRW 73,000-100,000 (73000-100000) | $250-600 |
Laser Hair Removal: Korea vs U.S.
Laser hair removal in Korea is surprisingly affordable. To attract new clients, many clinics offer “first-time trial” prices that are very budget-friendly. Most treatments require 3 to 5 sessions to fully remove hair follicles, so these trial offers often encourage people to buy a full treatment package.
Korea | U.S. | |
|---|---|---|
LASER HAIR REMOVAL | KRW 30,000-1,500,000 | $200-900 |
WAXING | KRW 30,000-120,000 | $20-300 |
* The price depends on area.
Heading to Korea for beauty treatments?
We’ve got something special for you!
Book any skincare procedure through Creatrip and you’ll automatically get Creatrip Buddy: a free personal travel support service that makes your trip easier! Think of it as your travel buddy in Korea, ready to help with anything you need so you can focus on enjoying your treatment and your trip.
- 14-day personalized travel consultation service
- Provides real-time online consultation in English
- Comprehensive Korea travel information provided
- Assistance with beauty clinic appointments and communication
🔗 Click here to learn more about participating clinics and guidelines!
[Spot] First-time Experience Offer🎉Gangnam Sirea (Botox/Water Glow Injection/Laser)
[Spot] Abijou雅秘珠 Hongdae Branch (Skin Care/Lifting)
[Spot] You&I Busan Store (Laser Skin Rejuvenation/Lifting)
[Spot] Free Medicube products🎉 Gangnam Medicube Clinic (Skin Care/Lifting)
[Spot] LEEFINJOO PPEUM Medical Aesthetics Cash Discount Coupon (International Busan Branch)
[Spot] Send Essence 🎉 Seoul Leeg Dermatology (Scalp Care/Non-assembly Line Skin Management)
Want to have a makeover during your trip?
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Book all things trending in Korea on Creatrip! If you have any questions or concerns, please leave a comment below or send us an email at help@creatrip.com! You can follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and Youtube to stay updated on all things Korea!
