Your First Korean Dermatology Visit: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for International Patients 2025

Walking into your first Korean dermatology clinic as an international visitor can feel intimidating. Will they speak English? What documents do you need? How does the consultation process work? This comprehensive guide walks you through every step—from researching clinics to walking out with your treatment plan—ensuring your first visit is smooth, efficient, and successful.

Before You Book: Pre-Visit Research (2-4 Weeks Before)

Step 1: Define Your Goals

Before researching clinics, clearly identify what you want to achieve:

Be Specific:

• ❌ "I want better skin"
• ✅ "I want to reduce acne scars on my cheeks"
• ✅ "I want to lighten pigmentation from sun damage"
• ✅ "I want preventative anti-aging treatment for fine lines"

Create Your Goals List:

1. Primary concern (most important)
2. Secondary concerns (if time/budget allows)
3. Deal-breakers (what you absolutely won't do)
4. Budget range
5. Maximum downtime acceptable

Example Goals List:

• Primary: Improve acne scars (cheeks)
• Secondary: Reduce pore size, even skin tone
• Deal-breakers: No surgical procedures, no more than 3 days downtime
• Budget: $800-$1,500
• Downtime: Maximum 3 days

Step 2: Research Clinics

Use Multiple Sources:

✅ Google Maps Reviews

• Search "dermatology clinic Gangnam" or specific neighborhood
• Read recent reviews (within 6 months)
• Look for mentions of English support
• Check response to negative reviews

✅ Gangnamunni App (강남언니)

• Korean platform with extensive reviews
• Can use Google Translate on reviews
• Shows before/after photos
• Price comparisons
• Download: iOS and Android available

✅ Reddit Communities

• r/AsianBeauty
• r/Korea
• Search for clinic recommendations
• Real patient experiences

✅ Medical Tourism Platforms

• MyMediTravel
• Medical Departures
• Expat Health Seoul
• Pre-vetted clinics with English support

✅ Instagram

• Search clinic names + "before after"
• Check if results look natural or overly edited
• Read comment sections for real feedback
• Verify account is official clinic page

Create Your Shortlist (3-5 clinics):

For each clinic, note:

• Name and address (in English AND Korean)
• Subway station and exit number
• Phone number and email
• English support level (full/partial/none)
• Specialties relevant to your goals
• Price range (if available)
• Doctor credentials

Step 3: Prepare Questions for Consultation

Essential Questions Checklist:

About the Treatment:

• What treatment do you recommend for my concern?
• How many sessions will I need?
• How long will each session take?
• What results can I realistically expect?
• How long will results last?
• What are the risks and side effects?

About the Products/Equipment:

• What brand of laser/filler/Botox will you use?
• Is the equipment FDA/KFDA approved?
• When was the equipment last serviced?
• Can you show me the sealed product packaging?

About Recovery:

• How much downtime should I expect?
• What will my skin look like immediately after?
• When can I wear makeup again?
• What activities should I avoid?
• How long until I see final results?

About Pricing:

• What is the total cost including all fees?
• Are there any additional costs? (consultation, products, etc.)
• Do you offer package deals?
• What is your cancellation/refund policy?
• Can I get a detailed written quote?

About Follow-Up:

• Will I need follow-up appointments?
• Are follow-ups included in the price?
• What if I'm not satisfied with results?
• Do you offer free touch-ups? (for injectables)

Document Questions: Type them in your phone's notes app with space to add answers during consultation.

Booking Your Appointment

Method 1: Email (Recommended for English Speakers)

Advantages:

• Time to use Google Translate
• Written record of everything
• Less pressure than phone call
• Can attach photos

What to Include in Booking Email:

Subject: Consultation Request - [Your Name] - [Your Concern]

Dear [Clinic Name],

I am an international visitor planning to visit Seoul from [dates] and would like to book a consultation.

About Me:
- Name: [Full name as on passport]
- Age: [Your age]
- Nationality: [Your country]
- Skin concerns: [Brief description]
- Previous treatments: [If any, or "None"]

Preferred Appointment:
- Date options: [List 2-3 date preferences]
- Time: [Morning/afternoon preference]

Questions:
- Do you have English-speaking staff/doctors?
- What is the consultation fee?
- Can I proceed with treatment on the same day?

I have attached photos of my skin concerns for your reference.

Thank you,
[Your name]
[Your email]
[Your phone number if you have Korean number]

Photo Attachment Tips:

• Natural lighting (near window, not direct sun)
• No makeup
• Multiple angles if relevant
• Close-up of specific concerns
• Maximum 5 photos total

Expected Response Time: 24-72 hours for English email responses

Method 2: Phone Call (If You're Comfortable)

Best For:

• Urgent appointments
• Clinics that don't respond to emails
• If you have Korean-speaking helper

Basic Phone Script:

"Hello, I'd like to book a consultation. Do you speak English?"

If Yes: Proceed with details If No: "Can I speak to someone who speaks English?" or use translator

Information They'll Ask For:

1. Name (spell it clearly)
2. Phone number
3. Concern/treatment interest
4. Preferred date and time
5. First-time patient? Yes/No

Korean Phone Etiquette:

• Start with "여보세요" (Yeo-bo-se-yo / Hello)
• Be polite but brief
• Don't call during lunch hours (12-1pm)
• Best calling times: 10-11am or 2-4pm

Method 3: Walk-In (Spontaneous/Flexible Travelers)

Clinics That Welcome Walk-Ins:

• Myeongdong tourist area clinics
• ToxnFill chain locations
• Larger clinics in Hongdae
• Most neighborhood clinics (but less English support)

Walk-In Strategy:

1. Go during off-peak hours (avoid lunch 12-1pm, after work 5-7pm)
2. Best days: Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday)
3. Bring passport and payment method
4. Prepare for possible wait time (30min-2 hours)
5. Have translation app ready
6. Be flexible with treatment options

Walk-In Phrases:

• "상담 받을 수 있나요?" (Sang-dam bad-eul su itt-na-yo? / Can I get a consultation?)
• "영어 가능한가요?" (Yeong-eo ga-neung-han-ga-yo? / Is English possible?)
• "예약 없어요" (Ye-yak eobs-eo-yo / No reservation)

Booking Confirmation Checklist

Once booked, confirm you have:

• Date and time written down
• Clinic name in English and Korean
• Address in Korean (for taxi/map)
• Subway station and exit number
• Doctor's name (if specified)
• Consultation fee amount
• Cancellation policy understood
• Confirmation email/message saved

What to Bring: Your First Visit Essentials

Required Documents

1. Passport (필수 - Pil-su / Essential)

Why: Required by Korean law for patient registration What They'll Do: Scan or photocopy for medical records Note: Even if you have Korean alien registration card, some clinics prefer passport for international patients

2. Payment Method

Accepted Forms:

• ✅ Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
• ✅ Cash (Korean won)
• ✅ Debit cards (international)
• ⚠️ Personal checks NOT accepted
• ⚠️ Insurance usually NOT accepted for cosmetic procedures

How Much to Bring:

• Consultation only: ₩20,000-₩50,000 ($15-$38)
• Consultation + light treatment: ₩100,000-₩300,000 ($77-$231)
• Consultation + moderate treatment: ₩300,000-₩800,000 ($231-$615)
• Bring 20% extra for unexpected recommendations

Cash vs. Card:

• Cash benefits: Some clinics offer 3-5% discount
• Card benefits: Easier exchange rate, record of payment, fraud protection
• Recommendation: Bring both, decide during payment

Helpful Items to Bring

3. Photos of Your Skin

Why Useful:

• Show condition in different lighting
• Track changes over time
• Communicate what you don't like
• Easier than explaining in non-native language

What Photos:

• Natural daylight, no makeup
• Frontal view
• Problem area close-ups
• Before/after of previous treatments (if applicable)

4. Current Skincare Products List

Write Down:

• Morning routine (in order)
• Evening routine (in order)
• Product names (Korean names if you use Korean products)
• Prescription medications

Why: Doctor can identify problematic products or ingredients causing issues

5. Allergy Information

List:

• Known medication allergies
• Skincare ingredient allergies
• General allergies (may indicate sensitivities)
• Previous treatment reactions

Format: Write clearly in English, have Korean translation ready (use Papago app)

6. Translation Tools

Download Before Visit:

• Papago (best Korean-English translator)
• Google Translate (with offline Korean downloaded)
• Naver Dictionary (for medical terms)

Take Screenshots:

• Your concerns in Korean
• Your questions in Korean
• Important medical terms

Optional But Helpful

7. Notebook and Pen

• Take notes during consultation
• Write down doctor's name
• Record treatment plan details
• Note product recommendations

8. Sunscreen (if treatment planned)

• May need to reapply after treatment
• Clinic may provide, but bring your own SPF 50+

9. Face Mask (the protective kind)

• Useful after treatment
• Socially normal in Korea
• Protects healing skin

10. Hat/Sunglasses

• If you end up getting laser treatment
• Extra sun protection for walk back

Your First Visit: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Arrival (15 Minutes Before Appointment)

What to Do:

1. Find the Clinic Building

   • Use Naver Maps (better than Google in Korea)
   • Clinics often on 2nd-10th floors
   • Look for clinic name in English and Korean
   • Check building directory (usually in lobby)

2. Enter the Clinic

   • Take off shoes if there's a shoe storage area (rare in medical clinics, but check)
   • Bow slightly to reception staff (small nod is fine)
   • Announce yourself in Korean or English

What to Say:

• "안녕하세요. [Your name]입니다. 예약했어요." (An-nyeong-ha-se-yo. [Name]-im-ni-da. Ye-yak-haess-eo-yo / Hello. I'm [Name]. I have an appointment.)
• OR in English: "Hello, I have an appointment at [time]. My name is [Name]."

3. Complete Patient Registration Form

Information Requested:

• Full name (as on passport)
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Passport number
• Contact phone number
• Address (Korean address if you have one, or hotel address)
• Emergency contact
• Medical history checkboxes
• Consent signatures

Tips:

• Ask for English form if available ("영어 양식 있어요?" / Yeong-eo yang-sik iss-eo-yo?)
• Use Papago to translate if Korean only
• It's okay to take time—don't rush
• Ask reception for help if confused

Typical Form Sections:

• Personal information
• Medical history (allergies, chronic conditions, medications)
• Previous cosmetic procedures
• Pregnancy status (for women)
• Photo/video consent
• Treatment consent
• Payment acknowledgment

Step 2: Waiting Room (5-30 Minutes)

What Happens:

• You'll be asked to wait
• May be given preliminary forms about treatment goals
• Some clinics do AI skin analysis during wait
• Others may take "before" photos

Use This Time To:

• Review your questions
• Observe clinic atmosphere
• Check treatment menu/price board (often displayed)
• Use bathroom if needed
• Mentally prepare your top 3 priorities

Waiting Room Etiquette:

• Keep voice low if on phone
• Okay to use phone/take photos of price boards
• Don't eat or drink (unless offered)
• Wait to be called—don't approach desk repeatedly

Step 3: Initial Consultation (15-30 Minutes)

Who You'll Meet:

Option A: Coordinator First

• English-speaking coordinator (at international clinics)
• Takes detailed history
• Explains clinic options
• May do skin analysis

Then: Doctor Consultation

• Board-certified dermatologist
• May or may not speak English (coordinator translates)
• Makes treatment recommendations

Option B: Direct Doctor Consultation

• Straight to doctor (more common at small clinics)
• Doctor may speak limited English
• More concise consultation

What Doctor Will Do:

1. Examine Your Skin

   • Visual inspection under bright light
   • May use magnifying device
   • Touch to assess texture, elasticity
   • Sometimes photograph

2. Ask Questions

   • What bothers you most?
   • How long have you had this concern?
   • What products do you use?
   • Previous treatments?
   • Any allergies?
   • General health conditions?

3. Explain Condition

   • What's causing your concern
   • Severity level
   • Realistic treatment expectations

4. Recommend Treatment Plan

   • Primary treatment option
   • Alternative options
   • Number of sessions needed
   • Timeline and schedule
   • Expected results
   • Price breakdown

Your Role in Consultation:

✅ DO:

• Ask your prepared questions
• Request clarification if anything unclear
• Ask to see product packaging
• Request written treatment plan
• Express any concerns honestly
• Ask about alternatives if price too high
• Take notes

❌ DON'T:

• Agree to treatment you don't understand
• Feel pressured to decide immediately
• Skip asking about side effects
• Forget to ask about total cost
• Accept treatment beyond your budget
• Be embarrassed to ask "stupid questions"

Red Flags During Consultation:

⚠️ Be Cautious If:

• Doctor spends less than 5 minutes with you
• Pushy sales tactics (must decide now!)
• Won't answer specific questions
• Refuses to show product packaging
• Prices seem too good to be true
• No discussion of risks/side effects
• Can't explain why they recommend specific treatment
• Want payment before explaining treatment

Green Flags (Good Signs):

✅ Positive Indicators:

• Doctor listens carefully
• Explains in detail (or ensures translator does)
• Shows before/after photos of similar cases
• Discusses risks honestly
• Respects your budget concerns
• Offers alternatives
• Provides written treatment plan
• No pressure to decide immediately
• Welcomes questions

Step 4: Decision Time (Take Your Time!)

You Have Three Options:

Option 1: Proceed with Treatment Today

• If you're confident and treatment is appropriate
• If price is within budget
• If you have time for procedure
• If downtime fits your schedule

Option 2: Book Treatment for Later

• If you need time to think
• If you want to compare with other clinics
• If you need to adjust schedule/budget
• If you want to do more research

Option 3: Thank Them and Leave

• If recommendation doesn't match your goals
• If price too high
• If you don't feel comfortable
• If consultation revealed you're not a good candidate

Don't Feel Pressured: Korean medical culture generally respects thoughtful decision-making. It's completely acceptable to say:

• "I need to think about it." (생각해 볼게요 / Saeng-gak-hae bol-ge-yo)
• "I want to compare options." (다른 곳도 알아볼게요 / Da-reun got-do al-a-bol-ge-yo)
• "Can I book for next week?" (다음 주에 예약할게요 / Da-eum ju-e ye-yak-hal-ge-yo)

Step 5: Treatment (If You Proceed)

Pre-Treatment:

1. Payment first (most clinics)
2. Sign consent forms
3. Change into gown if needed (usually not for face treatments)
4. Remove makeup (cleansing service provided)
5. Before photos taken
6. Numbing cream if applicable (20-45 minutes)

During Treatment:

• Doctor or nurse performs procedure
• You may be alone or doctor may stay throughout
• Speak up if pain exceeds what was described
• Ask for break if needed
• Treatment time: 15 minutes to 2 hours depending on procedure

Post-Treatment:

1. Soothing products applied
2. Post-treatment instructions explained (ask for English written copy)
3. Aftercare products recommended/provided
4. After photos taken
5. Next appointment scheduled if series
6. Checkout and payment (if not prepaid)

Step 6: Checkout & Final Steps

At Reception:

1. Receive:

   • Receipt (keep for records)
   • Aftercare instruction sheet
   • Prescribed products (if any)
   • Next appointment card (if applicable)
   • Doctor's contact info for questions

2. Confirm You Understand:

   • What to do today
   • What to avoid
   • When to apply products
   • Warning signs to watch for
   • Who to contact if problems

3. Schedule Follow-Up (if needed):

   • Book next session
   • Add to calendar immediately
   • Get confirmation

Before Leaving, Double-Check:

• Receipt in hand
• Aftercare instructions (in English if possible)
• All products/prescriptions received
• Next appointment confirmed
• Emergency contact number saved
• Sunscreen applied (if laser/peel treatment)

Payment: What You Need to Know

Average Costs by Service Type

Consultation Fees:

• Basic consultation: Free-₩20,000 ($0-$15)
• Specialist consultation: ₩20,000-₩50,000 ($15-$38)
• Often waived if you proceed with treatment

Same-Day Treatment Costs (typical ranges):

• Aquapeel/basic facial: ₩30,000-₩80,000 ($23-$62)
• Laser toning: ₩80,000-₩150,000 ($62-$115)
• Botox (one area): ₩50,000-₩100,000 ($38-$77)
• Filler (1cc): ₩300,000-₩600,000 ($231-$462)
• Skin booster: ₩200,000-₩400,000 ($154-$308)

Payment Process

Timing: Usually pay BEFORE treatment

Methods Accepted:

1. Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) - Most common for international patients
2. Cash (Korean won) - Some clinics give 3-5% discount
3. Debit card (international cards accepted at most clinics)
4. Mobile payments (if you have Korean payment apps)

What's Included in Price:

• Usually: Procedure, basic aftercare products, follow-up check within 1-2 weeks
• Sometimes Extra: Consultation, advanced aftercare products, specialized serums

Ask Before Paying:

• "Is this the total price?" (총 가격이 맞나요? / Chong ga-gyeog-i mat-na-yo?)
• "What's included?" (무엇이 포함되어 있나요? / Mu-eos-i po-ham-doe-eo itt-na-yo?)
• "Any additional fees?" (추가 비용 있나요? / Chu-ga bi-yong itt-na-yo?)

Receipts & Records

Request English Receipt if needed for:

• Insurance claims (rarely works for cosmetic, but try)
• Employer FSA/HSA accounts
• Personal records
• Currency conversion reference

Keep:

• Itemized receipt
• Treatment details in writing
• Before/after photos (take your own too)
• Product information/boxes
• Doctor's name and clinic contact

Useful Korean Phrases

At Reception

During Consultation

About Treatment

Medical Terms

Cultural Etiquette Tips

Do's

✅ Bow Slightly when greeting doctor/staff (small nod is fine for foreigners) ✅ Remove Shoes if clinic has designated area (follow lead of others) ✅ Be Punctual - arrive 10-15 minutes early ✅ Speak Quietly in waiting room ✅ Use Both Hands when giving/receiving payment or documents ✅ Ask Permission before taking photos inside clinic ✅ Follow Age Hierarchy - respect older doctors/senior staff ✅ Say Thank You frequently ("감사합니다" / Gam-sa-ham-ni-da)

Don'ts

❌ Don't Shake Hands unless doctor initiates (bowing is standard) ❌ Don't Be Loud - Koreans value quiet demeanor in medical settings ❌ Don't Rush the process - clinics may run behind schedule ❌ Don't Tip - tipping is not part of Korean culture, may be refused or seen as rude ❌ Don't Criticize Previous Doctor - maintain respectful tone about other clinics ❌ Don't No-Show without calling - very disrespectful in Korean culture ❌ Don't Wear Heavy Makeup to dermatology appointment

Communication Style

Korean Medical Communication:

• More formal than Western style
• Doctor often authoritative (not necessarily collaborative)
• Less small talk, more direct
• You may need to actively ask questions (they won't always volunteer information)

How to Adapt:

• Be respectfully assertive with questions
• Don't interpret directness as rudeness
• If confused, politely ask for clarification
• It's okay to advocate for yourself

After Your First Visit

Immediate Post-Visit (Same Day)

Within 1 Hour:

• Apply sunscreen if you haven't
• Drink plenty of water
• Review aftercare instructions
• Take photos of your skin (for tracking)
• Add follow-up appointment to calendar
• Save clinic contact in phone

First 24 Hours:

• Follow all aftercare instructions precisely
• Avoid touching treated area
• Sleep on clean pillowcase
• Skip gym/strenuous exercise
• Avoid alcohol (thins blood, increases swelling)
• No hot showers, saunas, or steam rooms

Week 1 Follow-Up

Self-Monitor:

• Take daily photos in same lighting
• Note any unusual reactions
• Track progress
• Document when applying products

When to Contact Clinic:

⚠️ Contact Immediately If:

• Severe pain not mentioned as normal
• Excessive swelling (more than described)
• Signs of infection (pus, increasing redness, heat)
• Allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing)
• Unexpected bleeding
• Concerning changes

How to Contact:

• Call clinic directly
• Send email with photos
• Many clinics have KakaoTalk for questions
• Visit clinic if serious

Long-Term Follow-Up

Track Results:

• Weekly photos first month
• Monthly photos thereafter
• Compare to before photos
• Note when friends/family notice change

Evaluate Decision:

• Are results meeting expectations?
• Was cost worth it?
• Would you return to this clinic?
• Would you recommend to friends?
• Any regrets or concerns?

Plan Next Steps:

• Maintenance schedule if needed
• Additional treatments if doing series
• Different clinic if unsatisfied
• Adjust skincare routine as recommended

Common First-Visit Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Mistake 1: Not Doing Enough Research

❌ The Problem: Choosing first Google result, booking without reading reviews ✅ The Fix: Research 3-5 clinics, read multiple review sources, check credentials

Mistake 2: Booking Treatment Same-Day Without Comparison

❌ The Problem: Feeling pressured to commit immediately ✅ The Fix: Get consultations at 2-3 clinics before deciding, compare prices and approaches

Mistake 3: Not Asking About Total Cost

❌ The Problem: Surprised by "additional fees" at checkout ✅ The Fix: Ask "What is the TOTAL cost including everything?" and get written quote

Mistake 4: Skipping the Patch Test

❌ The Problem: Proceeding with full treatment without testing for reactions ✅ The Fix: Request patch test for new products/treatments, especially if sensitive skin

Mistake 5: Not Understanding Aftercare

❌ The Problem: Leaving without clear aftercare instructions ✅ The Fix: Request written English aftercare sheet, ask questions until you understand

Mistake 6: Forgetting to Take Before Photos

❌ The Problem: Can't accurately track progress ✅ The Fix: Take own before photos (clinic may not share theirs), same lighting/angle for afters

Mistake 7: Booking Too Many Treatments at Once

❌ The Problem: Overwhelming skin, difficult recovery, can't identify what worked ✅ The Fix: Start with one treatment, evaluate results, add more later

Mistake 8: Not Checking Downtime Properly

❌ The Problem: Important event in 2 days, face is red and peeling ✅ The Fix: Ask specifically "What will I look like tomorrow? In 3 days? When can I attend a wedding?"

Mistake 9: Leaving Passport at Clinic

❌ The Problem: Some clinics hold passport during treatment, you forget to retrieve it ✅ The Fix: Double-check you have passport before leaving, or ask them not to hold it

Mistake 10: Not Getting Doctor's Name

❌ The Problem: Want to return to same doctor, don't know who treated you ✅ The Fix: Ask for doctor's business card or write down name immediately

FAQ

Q: Do I really need an appointment or can I just walk in?

A: It depends on the clinic and your flexibility. Premium clinics (Gangnam, Apgujeong) strongly prefer appointments. Budget/neighborhood clinics and tourist-area clinics (Myeongdong) often accept walk-ins. However, appointments guarantee English support and doctor availability.

Q: How much should I budget for a first consultation?

A: Consultation only: ₩20,000-₩50,000 ($15-$38), often waived if you proceed with treatment. To be safe, bring $200-300 in case you decide to do a same-day treatment.

Q: What if I don't speak Korean at all?

A: Stick to clinics that advertise English support (most in Gangnam, Myeongdong, Apgujeong). Download Papago translator. Bring a Korean-speaking friend if possible. Many clinics have enough English to handle international patients.

Q: Can I get a refund if I'm not happy?

A: Refund policies vary by clinic. Reputable clinics often offer free touch-ups within 2 weeks for injectables. Full refunds are rare. Always ask about satisfaction policy before treatment.

Q: How long should I expect my first visit to take?

A: Plan for 1.5-3 hours total:

• Registration: 10-15 minutes
• Waiting: 10-30 minutes
• Consultation: 15-30 minutes
• Decision time: 10-20 minutes
• Treatment (if same-day): 30-90 minutes
• Checkout: 5-10 minutes

Q: Is it rude to get second opinions?

A: Not at all! It's smart practice. Most international patients consult 2-3 clinics before deciding. You can be honest: "I'm comparing a few options" or diplomatic: "I need time to think."

Q: What if the doctor recommends something completely different from what I wanted?

A: Listen to their reasoning—they may identify a better solution. Ask why they don't recommend your desired treatment. If you're still unconvinced, get a second opinion. It's your face and your choice.

Q: Can I negotiate prices?

A: Direct negotiation is uncommon and may be awkward. Better approaches:

• Ask about package deals
• Ask about first-time customer discounts
• Ask about current promotions
• Compare prices between clinics

Q: Should I bring a Korean friend?

A: Helpful but not essential at English-friendly clinics. Benefits: translation help, cultural navigation, emotional support. Drawbacks: they might influence your decision, not all clinics allow companions in treatment rooms.

Conclusion: You're Ready!

Your first Korean dermatology visit doesn't have to be intimidating. With proper preparation, clear communication, and realistic expectations, you'll navigate the process successfully.

Final Checklist Before Your Appointment:

• Researched and shortlisted clinics
• Booked appointment (or identified walk-in option)
• Prepared questions list
• Gathered required documents (passport, payment)
• Downloaded translation apps
• Noted clinic address in English and Korean
• Planned arrival 15 minutes early
• Set realistic expectations
• Budgeted appropriately
• Cleared schedule for potential recovery time

Remember:

• You're the customer—ask questions freely
• It's okay to take time to decide
• When in doubt, consult 2-3 clinics
• Trust your instincts about clinic/doctor comfort
• Start conservatively (you can always do more later)
• Focus on results, not just price
• Aftercare is as important as the treatment

Ready to book your first Korean dermatology visit? Use this guide as your roadmap. Whether you choose a premium Gangnam clinic or a budget-friendly neighborhood option, you now have the knowledge to make informed decisions and advocate for yourself throughout the process.

Welcome to the world of Korean skincare—may your first visit be the start of your best skin journey!

⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about visiting Korean dermatology clinics as an international patient. Individual clinic procedures and policies may vary. Medical advice should only come from licensed professionals during your consultation. Always verify specific requirements directly with your chosen clinic before visiting.

Last Updated: January 12, 2025 Guide based on international patient experiences and Korean medical clinic best practices

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