To homepage

How it works

We've transformed the clinic search process, making it simple, fast, and personal.
Answer a few questionsTake a short quiz to share your Hair transplant goals.
Get personalised offers3 clinics, handpicked based on your answers, provide tailored treatment plans and quotes.
Choose the best optionCompare offers and choose the clinic that suits you best.
You can also browse all 14 clinics below.
820К+ patients have got assistance since 2014
50 countries
1,500 clinics
6K+ reviews
3K+ qualified doctors

How Much Does Hair transplant Cost in Republic of Korea in AUD?

Hair transplant surgery in the Republic of Korea typically costs from AUD $5,412 to AUD $13,183. Final pricing depends on the extraction technique, the number of grafts required, and the clinic's location. Australian patients save approximately 48% compared to domestic rates, where the average cost is AUD $17,762. High-grade clinics in Seoul often include airport transfers and multilingual support in their service fees.

  • FUE hair transplant: AUD $7,632 to AUD $14,571 for graft-by-graft extraction.
  • DHI hair transplantation: AUD $6,245 to AUD $12,350 using a specialised Choi implanter pen.
  • FUT Hair Transplant: AUD $5,273 to AUD $9,436 for the traditional strip method.
  • No shave hair transplant: AUD $8,604 to AUD $16,652 for discreet recovery.
  • Graft count: Costs scale with volume, typically ranging from 2,000 to over 3,000 grafts.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Seoul offers exceptional value for patients seeking high-tech precision. While Gangnam clinics may charge 20% more, they provide unmatched security. Severance Hospital, for instance, holds JCI accreditation and appears in Newsweek’s best hospitals lists. Many patients choose MOAMAN Hair Transplant Clinic for its specialised ISHRS-member surgeons. Remember to claim your 10% VAT refund at the airport before departing Korea.

Republic of KoreaThailandTurkey
Hair transplantfrom AUD $5,412from AUD $4,163from AUD $3,192
Organic hair transplantationfrom AUD $9,020from AUD $4,163from AUD $1,934
No Shave Hair Transplantfrom AUD $8,604from AUD $10from AUD $1,804
Female Hair Transplantfrom AUD $5,273from AUD $4,149from AUD $1,249
FUT Hair Transplantfrom AUD $5,273from AUD $3,885from AUD $1,388
Data verified by Bookimed as of September 2026, based on patient requests and official quotes from 343 clinics worldwide. Median costs are based on real invoices (2025–2026) and updated monthly. Actual prices may vary.

Best Hair transplant Clinics in Republic of Korea for Australians: 14 Verified Options and AUD Prices

VG Plastic Surgery
AB Plastic Surgery
URBAN Plastic Surgery
View Plastic Surgery Hospital
Wonjin Plastic Surgery Clinic
You’ve viewed 5 of 14 clinics

Hair transplant Overview in Republic of Korea

Takeaways
Related procedures & Costs
How it works
Benefits
Payment
patients recommend -
85%
Surgery Time - 4 hours
Stay in the country - 3 days
Rehabilitation - 1 day
Anaesthesia - Local anaesthesia
Requests processed - 110449
Before & after photos - 4
Verified patient reviews - 20
Bookimed fees - $0

Our Trusted Doctors for Australian Patients

View all Doctors
verified

Yong Woo Kim

15 years of experience • 1000+ treatments performed

Dr. Yong Woo Kim achieved the top score in the South Korean resident board exam. He is a board-certified plastic surgeon at Returning Plastic Surgery in Seoul. Dr. Kim has performed over 1,000 procedures. He specializes in deep plane facelifts, rhinoplasty, and eyelid correction.

  • Trained at the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery.
  • Received Best Paper awards from the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.
  • Member of the Korean Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
  • Works at a KOIHA-accredited clinic approved by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
verified

Paek Seung Chan

26 years of experience

Professor Paek Seung Chan is a specialist plastic surgeon at JK Plastic Surgery Center who holds academic teaching roles at two of South Korea's top medical colleges.

  • Visiting Professor of plastic surgery at Catholic University College of Medicine
  • Member of the International Society of Plastic Surgeons
  • Completed advanced postgraduate training in plastic and reconstructive surgery
  • Member of the Korean Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
  • Specialises in aesthetic procedures at a JCI-accredited facility
verified

Kim Dae Young

18 years of experience

Dr Kim Dae Young serves as a Director of the Korean Society of Hair Transplantation and leads the MOAMAN Hair Transplant Clinic in Seoul.

  • Previously performed surgery at the Kyungpook National University hair transplant centre
  • Full member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS)
  • Served as a live surgery workshop instructor at Kyungpook National University
  • Holds senior medical management credentials from Seoul National University
  • Stays active in the Asian Association of Hair Restoration Surgeons
verified

Kim Bum-ryeol

29 years of experience

The doctor currently serves as the Director of the Moaman Clinic and previously held the position of Director at Gangnam Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. With extensive expertise in the field, the doctor is an International Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ICCS) specialist.

The doctor maintains active professional memberships with the Korean Society of Cosmetic Surgery (KSAS) and the Korean Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (KACS). Furthermore, the doctor has contributed significantly to the medical community through academic speaking engagements, including presentations at the 1st ASACS International Conference and the 7th AFAS International Conference.

Video Stories from Bookimed Patients

Oksana
I have fulfilled my dream. Finally, I won't cry about my hair anymore.
Procedure: Hair transplant
Roman
Just 4 days in Turkey, and I'm already home with a new hair.
Procedure: Hair transplant
Diana
Thanks to Bookimed, I found hope and a clinic willing to help.
Procedure: Hair transplant

Reviews about Bookimed: Discover Patients' Insights

All reviews
Anonymous • Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery
United States of America
2 Sept 2026
Verified review.
It’s been reassuring how the clinic has stayed in touch and been easy to reach
Since you were asking about my experience, here are a few things to know. The procedure was for both my upper and lower eyelids, performed with the traditional scalpel technique. I’m still in early recovery, but I feel better than I thought I would. It’s been reassuring how the clinic has stayed in touch and been easy to reach. Everything was included in the price. The one thing I'd suggest, especially for non-Korean patients, is to make a list and ask every single question you have before arrival.
Виктория • Plastic Surgery Consultation
Thailand
7 June 2026
Verified review.
I can confidently recommend it to anyone planning to have moles, growths or other unwanted skin lesions removed
I am very pleased with Bookimed’s service. A coordinator supported me over several months, helping me choose a clinic. That’s how we chose Saero Clinic in Seoul. Before the operation, I had a video consultation with the doctors, during which we discussed all the details at length.The clinic itself turned out to be modern and comfortable, and the staff were very attentive and friendly. The operation went smoothly, and afterwards I attended regular check-ups to monitor the healing process. I went to this clinic to have a growth removed from my face and was very pleased with the result. I can confidently recommend it to anyone planning to have moles, growths or other unwanted skin lesions removed.
Michal • Blepharoplasty (Eyelid correction)
United Kingdom
16 May 2026
Verified review.
The surgeon and staff were excellent throughout
My biggest worry going into this was how visible the scars would be after my lower eyelid correction. Even though I’m still in the early stages of healing, the traditional incision lines are already barely noticeable, which is a huge relief. The surgeon and staff were excellent throughout. Based on the care I received and the initial results, I am very pleased with my choice of clinic. Gia my coordinator was lovely and very helpful. Huge thank you to all the medical, nursing and admin staff. 🙏🙏🙏🫰🫰
Anonymous • Facelift
16 Nov 2024
Verified review.
The experience for me, in general, was excellent, I would go back to the Dr
I was very pleased with the attention I received from the first day I arrived at the clinic. The interpreter was able to communicate perfectly to the surgeon what I wanted to be done and what my expectations were. I loved the hospitality of the Medical Team, all very attentive, very concerned about whether I was feeling well or not, reminding me of my check-ups, cleaning, suture removal, giving me all the information for the post-operative period, giving me light and oxygen therapy sessions to improve and accelerate the results of my recovery. The clinic is located in a very central place in Gangnam, it is easy to get there. It is very close to the flat that the clinic provides during your stay until the first check-up. The clinic is spacious, well-lit, very clean, with flexible opening hours for post-operative care. The real estate is very comfortable, they have coffee and tea so that you can help yourself. And, they don't keep you waiting. Everything works as scheduled. And, additionally, they provided me with help on how to get around the city, how to get to the tourist attractions, to the shops where they sell skin care products, etc. The experience for me, in general, was excellent, I would go back to the Dr. and I recommend him 100% to those people who are looking for a good clinic where they can have surgery with the full confidence that everything will go very well.
About Bookimed service
Bookimed made it easy for me to have a person who speaks my language to assist me whenever I had questions about the different alternatives of plastic surgery clinics that I could ask to evaluate me and give me a quote. When I had already decided on the clinic I wanted to go to, the person who assisted me very kindly answered all the questions I had after I had made my choice. She sent me all the information I asked for about the clinic, the background of the Dr. who was going to operate on me, health permits, health registration of the Dr., validity of his professional title, etc. Everything I needed to make sure I made a very informed decision and knew everything about the clinic, the Dr, the place where I would be operated on, where the clinic was located, where I would be staying from the day of the surgery until a week later and, obviously, how much I was going to be charged. There was only one difference with respect to the initial budget, but it was because once I was in the clinic I added a part of my face that had not been contemplated before. But even so, the final price did not increase too much compared to what I was charged at other clinics in South Korea.
Tat'yana Yamagami • Breast augmentation
Turkey
10 Sept 2024
Verified review.
The competence, careful attitude and attention to every little detail is what I really liked
I would like to thank my doctor for his careful attention to my difficult situation. The competence, careful attitude and attention to every little detail is what I really liked. Now I am still recovering and the final result is still far away, but I believe that everything will be fine. I would like to mention my coordinator-translator Jena. She is a very nice girl who helped me during my stay. Kind, nice, responsible and competent. She made me feel very comfortable. Thank you very much to the doctor, Jena and the clinic staff for everything. I will definitely recommend to my friends.
About Bookimed service
Great app that helped me find a good clinic. Thank you.
Anonymous • Lip lift
Israel
29 Aug 2026
Verified review.
Honestly, everything was beyond perfect—the doctor’s professional treatment and the dedicated team left me speechless
He is one of the most skilled and precise doctors I have met, and the entire team was just wonderful. I was asked what could be better, and honestly, everything was beyond perfect—the doctor’s professional treatment and the dedicated team left me speechless. What stood out was how carefully he measured and marked everything before the surgery, which was very reassuring. There were no additional expenses on top of the quoted price. My main advice is that you can absolutely trust the doctor and his team.
One of the best, most skilled, precise, and outstanding doctors I have ever met. The treatment, care, and entire staff were excellent and wonderful. I highly recommend him!
Every thing Everything was beyond perfect. The doctor’s professional and precise treatment, his exceptional expertise, and the wonderful and dedicated team left me speechless. I’m so happy I chose this doctor and his team.
Irina Ardhana • Revision rhinoplasty
Indonesia
6 May 2025
Verified review.
I would highly recommend this clinic for its quality service and professionalism
I am very pleased with my choice of this clinic. From the very beginning the communication with the clinic staff was fast and of high quality. I chose from 3 clinics. It was in this clinic that I got the best price and quality service before and after the procedure. I had a second rhinoplasty. The doctor did just a jewellery work with my nose. Very carefully, without much interference, he corrected the flaws from the first surgery I had a couple of years ago in Turkey. I am very happy with the result. My nose is now straight and neat. I was also very pleased with the service at the clinic after the operation. I had all the necessary procedures to reduce the swelling immediately after the operation and then during the week I still came a couple of times for procedures, so the recovery took literally a week. Special thanks to the assistant Joan. She was always in touch and very supportive throughout my stay in Korea. I would highly recommend this clinic for its quality service and professionalism.
About Bookimed service
I am very satisfied with my experience of co-operation with Bookimed. They provided me with a very fast and quality service in choosing the right clinic. The choice of clinic was perfect. I am very grateful!
Anonymous • Rhinoplasty (nose job)
United States of America
1 July 2026
Verified review.
Seeing the computer imaging of my expected result during the consultation was a key moment
Seeing the computer imaging of my expected result during the consultation was a key moment. The surgeon was direct and honest about what was realistic, and I appreciated that he personally handled both the consultation and the open rhinoplasty surgery for my full nose reshaping. The clinic staff has been easy to reach, and their aftercare guide is clear. I’m still healing. Be prepared for additional expenses like Ubers, hotel, recommended post-op meds, and lots of supplies like gauze, tape, and dry mouth spray. My advice for others is to bring a guardian; the first 3 days are very difficult and you will need help. Also, make sure to coordinate your arrival and departure dates so you don't leave before all your post-op care is finished.
The entire process was very organized, efficient and full of all necessary details. Communication responses are quick. Questions are answered with details and lots of backup information. The coordination between ALL the different departments is fantastic. The Clinic is immaculate. The Doctor is so professional and experienced and he has empathy and confidence. Top-notch all-around. And the Clinic is in a very good location. Everyone makes you feel like you matter and they want to make sure you feel happy and satisfied throughout the entire process.
The only thing is to just communicate more the post-op care during the initial phase. That it’s important to not book a flight home too soon after surgery. And that departure is coordinated based upon the surgery type. Also, a “care” bag that includes an emollient lip balm and dry mouth spray, as well as the gauze and tape needed for rhinoplasty. Having these things would help sooooo much with the recovery. My daughter had to go and buy these things separately and I suffered the first night until she was able to buy these items for me. Other than that —- everything else was just great
Anonymous • Blepharoplasty (Eyelid correction)
8 Feb 2024
Verified review.
Now two months after surgery, I am quite happy with the shape of my new eyelids
The medical team members are so friendly and helpful. Although I speak zero Korean, I can sense their passion and empathy, which dramatically reduced my anxiety to go through the surgery. They are very supportive from the right beginning to the end when I left Seoul. And big thanks to the assistance from Yena, who provides detailed before and after care instructions rather than just working as an interpreter. Now two months after surgery, I am quite happy with the shape of my new eyelids. They look much younger and alert.
About Bookimed service
Very friendly and supportive medical team although I don't understand Korean at all. Two months after surgery, I am quite happy with the result.
Arnaud Henry Salas-Perez • Mini Facelift
France
5 Dec 2025
Verified review.
Cannot recommend enough of SAERO, so much so that I am already planning to come back next year and talked about it to all my friends!!!
SAERO Clinic team is the best! From Jennie who helped every step of the way, making sure that everything was perfect, to the Nurses and Front desk people; everybody was super helpful, pro and kind. Dr Park is wonderful! Cannot recommend enough of SAERO, so much so that I am already planning to come back next year and talked about it to all my friends!!!
About Bookimed service
Easy, clear and fast!
Žaneta Majringer • Facial Fat Transfer
Canada
26 Apr 2025
Verified review.
By far the most attentive care I have EVER gotten in medicine—again, thanks especially to Joanne, who even walked me back to my hotel across the street post-op
One would fear that flying to a foreign country where you don’t know the language would be stressful and scary. Not only did the staff (Joanne <3!) make that all a cakewalk, the clinic’s aftercare was top notch, they really went above and beyond for me. And I am NOT an easy patient—I need to know every chemical in the anesthesia, I negotiate different antibiotics, make them go over my 21 daily supplements, etc—I kept them BUSY and was shown nothing but continual grace and warmth, and was always responded to promptly. By far the most attentive care I have EVER gotten in medicine—again, thanks especially to Joanne, who even walked me back to my hotel across the street post op. As for the surgery outcome, I didn’t even need a Tylenol it was that painless, I was able to walk around and enjoy Seoul every day after my mini lift, and although I’m still swollen at just under two weeks out, I already look ten years younger and am loving what I’m seeing. Dr. Park knows what he is doing, he’s done 3000+ facelifts (yes I asked), he has superb attention to detail, a true artist’s hand, and is a friendly and gentlemanly doctor!
About Bookimed service
Bookimed staff checked in on me several times via text ensuring that everything was going well with Saero, which it was.
Brittany Le • Otoplasty (ear surgery)
United States of America
28 Mar 2025
Verified review.
I give Saero Plastic Surgery a 5 because they exceeded my expectations
Dr. Pak is very knowledgeable and professional. It has been over a week sonce my surgery and see.s that everything is healing well. He prescribed a pack of antibiotics and pain killers for me to take for 5 days. The medication worked great because I was at a very minimal pain. His staff walked me through everything I needed from the US to Korea. I felt confident that I was in good hands and I was. The interpreter did a great good Interpreting everything I needed to ask the doctor and addressed all my concerns. I give Saero Plastic Surgery a 5 because they exceeded my expectations. Definitely recommend to everyone.
About Bookimed service
Bookimed was very good with communication and support.
Anonymous • Breast lift
Belgium
20 May 2026
Verified review.
The support from the surgeon and staff has made all the difference
My biggest worry was how the incision lines would heal and what the final result would be. I'm still in the early stages, but I feel so relieved and grateful. The team achieved a really good lift, and my nipples are already in a good position. The healing itself is progressing—there is some scabbing along the lollipop incision lines, which is to be expected. Honestly, the biggest challenge by far has been sleeping upright. It's tough. But the support from the surgeon and staff has made all the difference. I feel I made the right decision coming here.
The staff is really attentive to your needs. And now that I am home they are still very responsive and concerned about my healing.
Viktoria Sirenko • Lipofilling (Fat Grafting)
Belgium
13 Mar 2024
Verified review.
You are the best
I'm in love! Wonderful doctor and hospital staff. Everything needed for someone undergoing surgery in another country to be reassured and have all questions answered. I received all this. It's too early to talk about the results as my face is still swollen, but I already like what I see. Thank you to the doctor, staff, and bookimed. You are the best.
About Bookimed service
I am satisfied and will reach out and recommend you.
Tina Richardson • Lip lift
United Kingdom
4 May 2026
Verified review.
I felt I was in good hands throughout the entire process
If you're considering this procedure, my main advice would be to find a team you genuinely feel comfortable with. For me, that made all the difference. The surgeon and staff were so supportive and the clinic itself has a very professional, calming feel. I'm still in the early stages of recovery, but I can already see the outcome I wanted—the perfect amount of tooth show. The surgeon used a bullhorn incision, and the scar is already barely visible. It’s been a little challenging to eat carefully, but that's a temporary inconvenience. I felt I was in good hands throughout the entire process.
From the beginning to the end of my treatment amazing
Nothing it was perfect

Hair transplant: Before & after photos

View all

Share this content

Updated: 02/09/2026
Authored by
Anna Leonova
Anna Leonova
Head of Content Marketing Team
A certified medical writer with 10+ years of experience, developed Bookimed’s trusted content, backed by a Master’s in Philology and medical expert interviews worldwide.
Fahad Mawlood
Medical Editor & Data Scientist
General practitioner. Winner of 4 scientific awards. Served in Western Asia. Former Team Leader of a medical team supporting Arabic-speaking patients. Now responsible for data processing and medical content accuracy.
Fahad Mawlood Linkedin
This page may feature information relating to various medical conditions, treatments, and healthcare services available in different countries. Please be advised that the content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or guidance. Please consult with your doctor or a qualified medical professional before starting or changing medical treatment.

Our Hair transplant Techniques: What Suits You Best?

When considering Hair transplant, it’s important to understand the different techniques and which is best suited for you. Here’s a concise comparison of popular options:

FUE Hair Transplant

Follicular Unit Extraction involves removing individual hair follicles from a donor area and implanting them into balding or thinning areas.

Pros: Minimal scarring compared to FUT. Faster healing than DHI, with 10-15% more grafts possible in one session. Ideal for achieving a natural hairline.
Cons: Longer procedure time than ARTAS robotic hair transplant. May require multiple sessions for extensive hair loss compared to organic methods.
Effectiveness: Up to 4000 grafts per session.
Duration: 4-8 hours
Recovery: 7-10 days
Best for: Hair loss in small to moderate areas, creating a natural hairline.
Prices: Cost of FUE hair transplant in Republic of Korea from AUD $7,632

DHI Hair Transplantation

Direct Hair Implantation involves using a specialized pen to implant hair follicles one by one directly into the scalp.

Pros: Provides precise control over hair direction and density, ensuring a natural hairline. Minimal handling of hair follicles increases survival rate by up to 15%.
Cons: Typically more time-consuming than FUE and requires highly skilled practitioners. This can result in longer sessions.
Effectiveness: Up to 95% graft survival rate.
Duration: 6-8 hours
Recovery: 7-10 days
Best for: Small areas requiring high precision, up to 4000 grafts.

FUT Hair Transplant

Follicular Unit Transplantation involves removing a strip of scalp to harvest hair follicles for implantation.

Pros: Higher graft yield in a single session. Up to 4,000 grafts can be transplanted, more than FUE or DHI methods.
Cons: Leaves a linear scar, unlike FUE or ARTAS which are less invasive. Longer recovery time compared to DHI.
Effectiveness: Success rate of 95-98% for graft survival.
Duration: 4-8 hours
Recovery: 10-14 days
Best for: Treating large bald areas, with up to 4,000 grafts for extensive hair loss.

ARTAS Robotic Hair Transplant

Utilizes advanced robotic technology for precise follicle transplantation to restore hair.

Pros: Offers high precision with minimal scarring, up to 50% faster than manual FUE. Consistently accurate graft placement enhances natural hairline appearance.
Cons: High initial investment in technology. Limited availability compared to manual methods, which may affect accessibility.
Effectiveness: Success rate of 90-95% in graft survival.
Duration: 4-8 hours
Recovery: 7-10 days
Best for: Restoring hair in balding areas with high precision. Ideal for those seeking minimal downtime.

Organic Hair Transplantation

Uses a special serum derived from the patient's own fat to enhance hair growth and healing.

Pros: Promotes natural hair growth with a 95% success rate. Reduces scalp inflammation by 80%, using no synthetic chemicals.
Cons: Requires fat extraction from the body, which might not be suitable for everyone. Limited to those with enough donor fat available.
Effectiveness: Transplants up to 4,000 grafts.
Duration: 6-8 hours
Recovery: 7-10 days
Best for: Patients seeking natural hair restoration with enhanced healing. Ideal for alopecia solutions.

FAQ about Hair transplant in Republic of Korea

These FAQs come from real patients seeking medical assistance through Bookimed. Answers are given by experienced medical coordinators and trusted clinic representatives.

What are the side effects of hair transplants in Republic of Korea?

Hair transplant side effects in the Republic of Korea are usually mild. They include temporary swelling, itching, and hair shedding. Korean techniques like robotic FUE and DHI reduce tissue damage. However, patients may still face shock loss, minor folliculitis, or scalp numbness during early recovery.

  • Shedding period: Newly transplanted hair often falls out 1–3 months after surgery before regrowing.
  • Facial oedema: Forehead or eye swelling typically appears 2–3 days post-surgery and resolves quickly.
  • Donor site numbness: Temporary loss of sensation in the scalp is common during initial healing.
  • Shock loss: Existing native hair near graft sites may shed temporarily due to surgical trauma.

Bookimed Expert Insight: While many centres focus on graft volume, leading Seoul clinics like Banobagi integrate stem cell injections into their transplants. This enhancement speeds up scalp healing and increases follicle survival rates compared to standard FUE. It also reduces the duration of the visible recovery phase for international patients.

Patient Consensus: Expect temporary forehead swelling, scabbing, and itching during the first week. Many patients in Korea combine surgery with medication like Finasteride. However, confirm your personal tolerance for these drugs locally before flying.

Where are the best clinics for hair transplants located in Republic of Korea?

The best hair transplant clinics in the Republic of Korea are concentrated in Seoul. Specifically, they are in the Gangnam and Seocho districts. These areas host facilities accredited by KOIHA and KAHF. They specialise in techniques like FUE, robotic ARTAS, and non-shaven procedures for natural-looking results.

  • Gangnam District: Most high-volume clinics are located near Apgujeong and Gangnam stations.
  • Seocho District: A major hub for government-certified clinics and robotic hair restoration.
  • Cheongdam-dong area: Renowned for clinics that specialise in early to mid-stage hair thinning.
  • Specialist expertise: Surgeons like Dr Paek Seung Chan offer Catholic University-affiliated academic oversight.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Many centres serve thousands of patients annually. However, hair transplant specialists in Seoul, such as Dr Kimchangjoo, often manage 5+ restoration centres personally. Seoul clinics maintain such high graft survival rates. This is due to the concentration of surgical experience at the director level. They achieve this despite performing complex non-shaven procedures.

Patient Consensus: Seoul clinics provide exceptional results for FUE, especially for patients requiring meticulous hairline design. Those with non-Asian hair textures should confirm the surgeon performs extractions personally.

Do non-residents get special tax rates for medical services in Republic of Korea?

Non-residents do not receive special tax rates for medical services in the Republic of Korea. As of 1 January 2026, the VAT refund program for foreign patients has been abolished. It previously covered aesthetic procedures and cosmetic surgery. All international patients now pay standard consumer rates including applicable taxes.

  • VAT refund status: The previous 10% tax refund for cosmetic procedures is no longer available.
  • Standardised pricing: Non-residents pay private rates as they are excluded from national health insurance.
  • Taxation rules: Visitors pay standard consumer prices including all applicable Value Added Tax.
  • Cost efficiency: Procedures remain cheaper than the $12,800 Australian average despite tax changes.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Tax refunds have ended, but Seoul remains highly competitive. This is because specialised clinics like AB Plastic Surgery maintain a double-industry-average anaesthesiology ratio. Clinics with high international patient volumes often provide better value. Seoul National University Hospital, for instance, offers bundled services. These offset the loss of tax incentives.

Patient Consensus: Expect to pay full private rates in South Korea. Medical services do not offer special non-resident discounts. Confirm all-inclusive quotes early to manage out-of-pocket costs and avoid unexpected foreigner premiums.

Get a free consultation

Select the best way to contact you