Hongdae & Hapjeong Dermatology Clinics: Complete Area Guide 2025

If you're looking for skincare treatments in Seoul that combine quality medical care with a vibrant, youthful atmosphere, the Hongdae and Hapjeong neighborhoods in Mapo district should be at the top of your list. Known for their artistic culture, indie music scene, and university-driven energy, these areas also offer excellent dermatology clinics that cater to both locals and international visitors.

Why Choose Hongdae & Hapjeong for Skincare?

The Hongdae (홍대) and Hapjeong (합정) areas are connected by the same subway line (Line 2) and share a similar vibe - trendy, creative, and surprisingly affordable compared to the premium pricing you'll find in Gangnam or Cheongdam. Here's what makes this area special for skincare seekers:

Affordable Pricing: Many clinics in this area cater to university students and young professionals, which means competitive pricing without sacrificing quality.

Evening Hours: Several clinics offer extended evening hours and weekend availability, perfect for travelers who want to maximize their daytime sightseeing.

Youthful Energy: The neighborhood's creative atmosphere translates into clinics that are modern, Instagram-worthy, and staffed by younger doctors who are often more familiar with international beauty trends.

Accessibility: Both Hongdae (Hongik University Station) and Hapjeong stations are on Line 2, making them easy to reach from anywhere in Seoul.

Top Dermatology Clinics in Hongdae & Hapjeong

1. Beauty Stone Clinic (뷰티스톤의원) - Hapjeong

Located near Hapjeong Station, Beauty Stone Clinic specializes in premium lifting treatments and comprehensive skincare solutions.

Specialties:

Ultherapy Prime and Thermage FLX for advanced lifting
Sofwave and Onda treatments
Skin boosters and hydration therapy
Scar treatment and texture improvement
Contour and volume procedures
Tattoo removal

Location: Short walk from Hapjeong Station Exit 8 Best For: Premium lifting treatments and comprehensive anti-aging care

2. Gowoon Saesang Dermatology Hongdae (홍대 고운세상피부과)

Part of a reputable network established in 1998, this clinic offers both medical dermatology and aesthetic treatments.

Specialties:

Medical acne treatment (inflammation injections, extractions)
Scar and pore management
Melasma and pigmentation treatment
Lifting and petit procedures
Insurance-covered dermatology treatments

Location: Hapjeong Station Exit 8 Unique Features: 62+ reviews, evening hours available, established network clinic Best For: Acne treatment and medical dermatology combined with aesthetic services

3. U&I Clinic Hongdae-Sinchon (유앤아이의원 홍대신촌점)

A modern clinic offering competitive promotional pricing on popular treatments.

Specialties:

Ultherapy Prime (100 shots: ₩400,000-700,000 / $310-540)
Injection treatments (Tiffany, Diamond)
Laser treatments and skin toning

Location: 5th Floor, Good People Building, 162 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu Best For: Budget-conscious visitors looking for quality lifting treatments

4. Lien Jang Clinic Hongdae (리엔장의원 홍대점)

Comprehensive aesthetic clinic with transparent pricing and a wide range of services.

Specialties:

Botox and filler treatments
Laser lifting procedures
Body contouring
Skin treatments and laser hair removal
Semi-permanent makeup

Unique Features: Published price list available (VAT not included), multiple treatment categories Best For: Visitors who want clear pricing information upfront

5. Enbom Clinic (앤봄의원)

Popular clinic with over 114 reviews, known for female doctor availability.

Specialties:

Botox and Aquapeel
IPL and laser toning
Shrink (lifting treatment)
Acne inflammation injections
General skin management

Location: Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu Unique Features: Evening hours, female doctor available, extensive positive reviews Best For: Female travelers preferring treatment by female physicians

6. Chai Clinic Hongdae (차이의원 홍대점)

Modern clinic conveniently located in the Delight Square building near Hapjeong Station.

Specialties:

Ultherapy and Botox
Comprehensive skincare treatments
Laser hair removal

Location: 3rd Floor, Delight Square, 14 World Cup-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu (Hapjeong Station Exit 8) Unique Features: Female specialist doctor, modern facilities Best For: Convenient location near shopping and dining

7. Nine Clinic Hongdae (나인의원 홍대점)

Located right at Hongdae Entrance Station with easy access.

Specialties:

Botox and acne treatment
Acne scar treatment
Pigmentation and melasma
Lifting and skin lasers
Skin boosters
Petit procedures and collagen treatments

Location: Hongik University Station Exit 2 Best For: Acne and acne scar treatment

8. Reverse Clinic Hongdae (리버스의원 홍대점)

Aesthetic-focused clinic with 37+ reviews specializing in facial contouring.

Specialties:

Contour injections
Botox and Shrink treatments
Pinpoint laser
Fillers and laser toning

Location: Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu Best For: Facial contouring and reshaping procedures

Treatment Prices in Hongdae & Hapjeong (2025)

Prices in this area are generally 10-20% lower than Gangnam while maintaining similar quality standards.

Botox

Forehead/Crow's Feet: ₩90,000-150,000 ($70-115)
Square Jaw (Masseter): ₩150,000-300,000 ($115-230)
Hyperhidrosis (Sweating): ₩90,000+ ($70+)

Fillers

Lip Filler: ₩300,000-500,000 ($230-385)
Nasolabial Folds: ₩400,000-600,000 ($310-460)
Volume Enhancement: ₩500,000-800,000 ($385-615)
Effect Duration: 6-12 months

Laser Treatments

Laser Toning (per session): ₩80,000-150,000 ($60-115)
IPL Photofacial: ₩100,000-200,000 ($75-155)
Acne Treatment Package: ₩200,000-400,000 ($155-310)

Premium Lifting

Ultherapy Prime (100 shots): ₩400,000-700,000 ($310-540)
Thermage FLX: ₩800,000-1,500,000 ($615-1,155)
Shrink Treatment: ₩200,000-400,000 ($155-310)

Skin Boosters

Rejuran Healer (2cc): ₩200,000-350,000 ($155-270)
Tiffany Injection (8cc): ₩490,000-890,000 ($380-685)
Diamond Injection (6cc): ₩390,000-760,000 ($300-585)

Note: Many clinics offer promotional pricing and package deals. Prices shown are regular rates; first-time visitor discounts and event pricing are commonly available.

Language Support for International Visitors

While not all clinics in Hongdae/Hapjeong have English-speaking staff, there are solutions:

MEDIROUND Medical Interpretation Service: Provides professional medical interpreters for dermatology consultations across Seoul, including Hongdae/Hapjeong clinics.
Translation Apps: Download Papago or Google Translate for basic communication.
Pre-Written Notes: Prepare your medical history and desired treatments in Korean beforehand.
Contact Ahead: Email clinics before visiting to ask about English support or interpreter availability.

How to Get There

To Hapjeong Station (합정역)

Subway: Line 2 and Line 6 intersection
From Gangnam: Take Line 2 toward City Hall, approximately 30-35 minutes
From Myeongdong: Take Line 4 to Seoul Station, transfer to Line 2, approximately 25 minutes
Useful Exits:
- Exit 8: Beauty Stone, Gowoon Saesang, Chai Clinic
- Exit 3: Quick access to main street

To Hongik University Station (홍대입구역)

Subway: Line 2, Airport Railroad Express (AREX), Gyeongui-Jungang Line
From Incheon Airport: Direct AREX train, approximately 45 minutes
From Gangnam: Line 2 toward City Hall, approximately 35-40 minutes
Useful Exits:
- Exit 2: Nine Clinic, main shopping area
- Exit 9: Hongdae main street

Walking Between Areas: Hapjeong and Hongdae are only one subway stop apart (2 minutes), or a pleasant 15-minute walk along trendy streets.

What to Do in Hongdae & Hapjeong

Hongdae Area

Shopping: Indie fashion boutiques, vintage stores, K-beauty shops
Street Performances: Daily live music and dance performances in Hongdae Playground
Cafes: Unique themed cafes, from cat cafes to board game cafes
Nightlife: Club streets, live music venues, and pojangmacha (tent bars)
Markets: Hongdae Free Market on weekends (artist-made crafts and accessories)

Hapjeong Area

Han River Parks: Nearby Mangwon Hangang Park for picnics and cycling
Mangwon Market: Traditional Korean market with authentic street food
Cafe Streets: Quieter, more sophisticated cafe culture than Hongdae
Dessert Spots: Trendy bakeries and dessert cafes

Combined Area Benefits

Cost Savings: Affordable accommodation compared to Gangnam
Food Scene: Everything from ₩5,000 ($4) street food to Michelin-recommended restaurants
Shopping: Both luxury and budget options available
Cultural Experience: More authentic Seoul vibe compared to touristy areas

Tips for Visiting Dermatology Clinics in This Area

Book Ahead: While walk-ins are sometimes accepted, booking ensures you get a time slot, especially for popular clinics.
Evening Availability: Many clinics here offer evening hours (until 8-9 PM) - great for fitting treatments around sightseeing.
Bring Cash: Some smaller clinics prefer cash, though most accept cards.
Allow Recovery Time: If getting invasive procedures, plan for 1-2 days of downtime before flights or important events.
Combine Activities: Schedule your clinic visit in the morning, then explore the area in the afternoon. Most treatments have minimal downtime.
Promotional Periods: Check clinic websites or Korean beauty apps (강남언니 Gangnam Unni, 모두닥 Modoodoc) for current promotions.
Patch Tests: If you have sensitive skin, request a patch test before full treatments.

Comparing Hongdae/Hapjeong to Other Seoul Areas

vs. Gangnam

Price: 10-20% lower in Hongdae/Hapjeong
Atmosphere: More casual and artistic vs. luxury and premium
Accessibility: Similar subway access, less crowded
International Services: Gangnam has more English support

vs. Myeongdong

Medical Quality: Similar quality, more variety in Hongdae/Hapjeong
Tourist-Friendly: Myeongdong more tourist-oriented, Hongdae more local
Pricing: Comparable to slightly lower in Hongdae/Hapjeong
Experience: Hongdae offers better overall neighborhood experience

vs. Apgujeong

Luxury Level: Apgujeong more high-end, Hongdae more accessible
Innovation: Hongdae clinics often adopt new trends faster
Celebrity Factor: Apgujeong known for celebrity doctors, Hongdae for younger specialists
Value: Better value for budget-conscious travelers in Hongdae

Best Times to Visit

Weekday Mornings (9-11 AM): Least crowded, shorter wait times
Early Evening (5-7 PM): After work hours but before peak dinner time
Avoid: Saturday afternoons (busiest period), lunch hours (12-2 PM)
Seasonal: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are popular for treatments before/after summer

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is for educational purposes only. Dermatological and aesthetic treatments carry potential risks and should only be performed by licensed medical professionals. Always consult with a qualified dermatologist before undergoing any procedure. Prices and clinic information are subject to change. Individual results may vary, and treatment outcomes are not guaranteed.

Planning Your Visit: The Hongdae and Hapjeong area offers an unbeatable combination of quality skincare treatments, affordable pricing, and an exciting neighborhood to explore. Whether you're seeking medical dermatology for acne or aesthetic treatments for anti-aging, this vibrant district provides excellent options without the premium prices of Gangnam. Book your consultation, plan your sightseeing, and experience the best of Seoul's youthful skincare scene.

Need Help Choosing? Consider your priorities: medical concerns vs. aesthetic goals, budget level, and preferred clinic atmosphere. Most clinics offer free consultations - don't hesitate to visit 2-3 clinics to compare before committing to treatments.