Korean Dermatology Clinic First Visit Guide: What to Expect 2025

Walking into your first Korean dermatology clinic can feel overwhelming—unfamiliar language, different medical protocols, and cultural nuances you're not accustomed to. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of your first visit, from booking your appointment to post-treatment care, ensuring you feel confident and prepared for world-class Korean skincare.

Before You Go: Preparation Checklist

Essential Items to Bring

Required Documents:

✅ Passport (mandatory for all foreign patients, used for registration)
✅ Payment method (cash, credit card, or both)
✅ Travel insurance card (if applicable, though cosmetic procedures usually not covered)

Helpful to Bring:

✅ Photos of desired results (show before/after images you like)
✅ List of current medications (written in English, clinic will note)
✅ Allergy information (drug allergies, skin sensitivities)
✅ Previous treatment history (dates of Botox, fillers, lasers)
✅ Hotel business card (in case you need taxi help getting back)
✅ Papago or Google Translate app (downloaded offline for emergencies)

Optional But Useful:

✅ Face photos from multiple angles (no makeup, natural lighting)
✅ Questions written in Korean (use Papago to translate beforehand)
✅ Friend/travel companion (for moral support and second opinion)

Pre-Visit Skin Preparation (24-48 Hours Before)

What to Do:

✅ Remove makeup completely (night before appointment)
✅ Avoid new skincare products (stick to your routine)
✅ Skip retinol/acids (2-3 days before laser consultations)
✅ Stay hydrated (drink plenty of water)
✅ Get good sleep (skin looks best when well-rested)

What to Avoid:

❌ Alcohol (24 hours before - causes facial flushing, affects filler/Botox)
❌ Aspirin/blood thinners (unless prescribed - increases bruising)
❌ Waxing/threading (3-5 days before)
❌ Sun exposure (avoid sunburn before consultations)
❌ Heavy makeup (arrive with clean face if possible)

Researching Your Clinic

Verify Legitimacy (Before Booking):

Check Gangnam Unni reviews: 10+ verified patient reviews minimum
Confirm board certification: Doctor should be dermatology-certified (피부과 전문의)
Look for "피부과의원" in name: Indicates board-certified dermatologist operates clinic
Google the clinic name: Check for complaints or warnings
Verify address: Make sure it's in a legitimate commercial building (not basement)

Red Flags to Avoid:

❌ Ultra-cheap "trial prices" under ₩5,000 ($4)
❌ No visible medical licenses displayed
❌ Aggressive street promoters
❌ Unwilling to provide English consent forms
❌ Pressure to book immediately without consultation

Booking Your Appointment

Booking Methods

1. Walk-In (No Appointment)

Best For: Budget clinics in Myeongdong, Hongdae
Wait Time: 30 minutes - 2 hours
Language Support: May not get English-speaking staff
Pros: Flexible, spontaneous
Cons: Long waits, no guarantee of preferred doctor

2. Phone Booking

Best For: Korean speakers or those with translator
Advance Booking: 1-3 days ahead
Language: Limited English at most clinics
How: Call and say "Yeyak-hago sipeoyo" (예약하고 싶어요 = I want to make a reservation)

3. Online Booking (Recommended)

Best For: English speakers, advance planners
Platforms:
- Clinic websites (many have online forms)
- Gangnam Unni app (direct booking)
- Email: Most premium clinics respond to English emails
Advance Booking: 1-4 weeks ahead
Language: Can use translation tools, receive written confirmations

4. Through Medical Tourism Agency

Best For: First-timers wanting full support
Services: Booking, translation, transportation
Cost: 15-25% commission added to treatment cost
Pros: Full language support, reliable
Cons: More expensive

What to Ask When Booking

Essential Questions:

"Do you have an English-speaking doctor or coordinator?"
- Korean: "영어 할 수 있는 의사 선생님이나 직원이 있나요?"
"What is the consultation fee?"
- Korean: "상담 비용이 얼마예요?"
"Do you provide English consent forms?"
- Korean: "영어 동의서가 있나요?"
"Can I get a cost estimate before booking?"
- Korean: "미리 가격 견적을 받을 수 있나요?"
"What should I bring to the appointment?"
- Korean: "예약 때 무엇을 가져가야 하나요?"

Consultation Fees (2025)

By Facility Type (First Visit):

Clinic (의원): ₩4,500 ($3.50) - Most dermatology clinics
Hospital (병원): ₩6,200 ($4.80)
General Hospital (종합병원): ₩8,700 ($6.70)
University Hospital (대학병원): ₩11,400 ($8.80)

Follow-Up Visit (same clinic within 30 days):

Clinic: ₩3,300 ($2.50)
Hospital: ₩4,500 ($3.50)
General Hospital: ₩6,500 ($5.00)
University Hospital: ₩8,900 ($6.80)

Important Notes:

Consultation fees are often waived if you proceed with treatment
Premium clinics (Apgujeong) may charge ₩20,000-₩50,000 ($15-$38) for comprehensive consultations
English consultations sometimes cost extra (₩10,000-₩30,000 / $8-$23)

Arrival & Check-In Process

Step 1: Finding the Clinic (10 minutes before appointment)

Korean Buildings Are Different:

Clinics are usually on 2nd-10th floors (rarely ground level)
Look for building name on signage, not just clinic name
Use Naver Maps (more accurate than Google Maps in Korea)

Finding the Entrance:

Find the building address (e.g., "삼안빌딩" = Saman Building)
Enter building lobby
Check directory board for clinic floor (e.g., "6F - 차앤박피부과")
Take elevator to correct floor

If Lost: Show clinic address to security guard or nearby shop staff

Step 2: Reception Check-In (5-10 minutes)

What Happens:

Greet receptionist: "안녕하세요" (Annyeonghaseyo = Hello)
State your purpose:
- If you have appointment: "예약했어요" (Yeyak-haesseoyo = I have an appointment)
- Walk-in: "상담하고 싶어요" (Sangdam-hago sipeoyo = I want a consultation)
Provide passport: They'll make a copy for records
Fill out intake form: Medical history, allergies, concerns

Intake Form (Usually in Korean):

Name (이름): Write in English
Date of Birth (생년월일): YYYY-MM-DD format
Phone (전화번호): Include country code (+1 for USA, etc.)
Allergies (알레르기): List any drug/skin allergies
Current Medications (복용 중인 약): List all medications
Skin Concerns (피부 고민): They may translate for you, or use Papago

Tip: Take a photo of a filled sample form online beforehand for reference

Step 3: Waiting Room (5-30 minutes)

What to Expect:

Sit in designated waiting area
You'll be called by name: "[Your Name] 환자님" (hwanja-nim = patient)
Some clinics give you a number instead
Use this time to review your questions

Waiting Room Etiquette:

✅ Quiet conversation is fine
✅ Phone use is okay (silent mode)
✅ Can use restroom (ask receptionist)
❌ No loud phone calls
❌ No eating/drinking (water usually okay)

The Consultation Process

Step 1: Initial Skin Analysis (10-15 minutes)

Meeting the Coordinator/Nurse:

You may first meet a coordinator (상담사) or nurse (간호사)
They'll assess your concerns and determine which doctor/treatments to recommend
Be honest about your budget, expectations, and concerns

Skin Analysis Technology: Many clinics use:

VISIA Skin Analysis: UV camera shows pigmentation, pores, wrinkles
Moisture Meter: Measures hydration levels
Sebum Meter: Checks oil production
Photos: Before photos from multiple angles

What They'll Ask:

"What brings you to the clinic today?"
"What results are you hoping for?"
"Have you had any procedures before?"
"What is your budget?"
"How long are you staying in Korea?"

How to Answer:

Be specific: "I want to reduce acne scars on my cheeks"
Set realistic expectations: "Natural improvement, not perfection"
Be honest about budget: "I have $500 for treatments"
Mention your timeline: "I'm here for 7 days"

Step 2: Doctor Consultation (15-30 minutes)

Meeting the Doctor (의사 선생님):

Board-certified dermatologist will examine your skin
They'll recommend treatment plan based on analysis

What the Doctor Will Do:

Visual Examination: Look at your skin under bright light
Physical Examination: May touch skin to assess texture, elasticity
Questions: Ask about lifestyle, skincare routine, medical history
Recommendations: Suggest 1-3 treatment options
Explanation: Explain how treatments work, expected results, risks

Questions You Should Ask the Doctor:

About the Treatment:

✅ "What specific product/brand will you use?" (Korean: "어떤 제품을 사용하나요?")
✅ "How many units/cc will I receive?" (Korean: "몇 유닛/cc 주사하나요?")
✅ "How many sessions do I need?" (Korean: "몇 회 치료가 필요하나요?")
✅ "What results can I realistically expect?" (Korean: "효과가 어느 정도 기대할 수 있나요?")
✅ "How long until I see results?" (Korean: "효과가 언제쯤 나타나요?")
✅ "How long do results last?" (Korean: "효과가 얼마나 지속되나요?")

About Safety & Risks: 7. ✅ "What are the possible side effects?" (Korean: "부작용이 있나요?") 8. ✅ "What happens if I have a complication?" (Korean: "문제가 생기면 어떻게 하나요?") 9. ✅ "Do you offer free touch-ups?" (Korean: "무료 재치료가 가능한가요?") 10. ✅ "Can I see before/after photos of your patients?" (Korean: "전후 사진을 볼 수 있나요?")

About Cost & Logistics: 11. ✅ "What is the total cost including consultation and anesthesia?" (Korean: "상담비와 마취 포함 총 비용이 얼마예요?") 12. ✅ "Are there any hidden fees?" (Korean: "추가 비용이 있나요?") 13. ✅ "Can I fly after this treatment?" (Korean: "시술 후 비행기 탈 수 있나요?") 14. ✅ "What should I avoid after treatment?" (Korean: "시술 후 주의사항이 뭐예요?")

Red Flags During Consultation:

❌ Doctor spends less than 5 minutes with you
❌ Pushes expensive treatments without explaining alternatives
❌ Cannot show product packaging or expiration dates
❌ Refuses to provide written cost breakdown
❌ Dismisses your concerns or questions

Step 3: Treatment Decision & Consent Form

Taking Time to Decide:

✅ It's okay to say: "I need time to think" (Korean: "생각할 시간이 필요해요")
✅ It's okay to visit multiple clinics before deciding
✅ It's okay to negotiate package deals or ask for discounts

If You Proceed with Treatment:

Consent Form Requirements: The consent form (동의서) must include:

Procedure name in Korean and English
Product brand and amount (e.g., "Botox 50 units")
Expected effects and timeline
Possible side effects and complications
Post-treatment precautions
Refund/touch-up policy
Your signature and date
Doctor's signature (confirms they explained directly)

Key Points About Consent Forms:

⚠️ Request English version: Legally required for foreign patients
⚠️ Read carefully: Don't sign if you don't understand
⚠️ Ask questions: If anything is unclear, ask for clarification
⚠️ Take a photo: Keep a copy for your records
⚠️ Verbal explanation required: Doctor must explain directly, not just hand you a form

Payment Timing:

Most clinics: Pay before treatment
Some premium clinics: Pay after treatment
Deposits: 30-50% for advance bookings

The Treatment Room Experience

Preparation (5-15 minutes)

What Happens:

Remove makeup: If you haven't already, they'll provide cleansing products
Change clothes: For body treatments, you'll get a gown
Photos: "Before" photos taken for records
Numbing cream: Applied if needed (wait 20-30 minutes)

Numbing Options:

Topical cream (표면 마취): ₩0-₩10,000 ($0-$8) - included for most procedures
Dental block (신경 차단): ₩30,000-₩50,000 ($23-$38) - for lip/chin fillers
Local injection: ₩20,000-₩40,000 ($15-$30) - for invasive procedures

During Treatment (15-60 minutes depending on procedure)

Typical Timeline:

Botox: 5-15 minutes
Filler: 15-30 minutes
Laser Toning: 10-20 minutes
Skin Booster: 15-25 minutes
HIFU: 30-60 minutes
Thread Lift: 45-90 minutes

What You Might Feel:

Botox: Pinprick sensation, slight pressure
Filler: Pressure, fullness, mild discomfort
Laser: Warm/hot sensation, rubber band snapping feeling
Skin Booster: Multiple tiny pinpricks
HIFU: Deep heating sensation, some areas more sensitive

Communication During Treatment:

✅ Tell them if you feel severe pain: "너무 아파요" (neomu apayo = it hurts a lot)
✅ Ask for a break: "잠깐 쉬어도 돼요?" (jamkkan swieo-do dwaeyo = can I rest for a moment?)
✅ Say if you feel dizzy: "어지러워요" (eojireowo-yo = I feel dizzy)

After Treatment (5-10 minutes)

Immediate Post-Treatment:

Ice/cooling: Applied to reduce swelling
Photos: "After" photos taken
Recovery room: Rest for 10-20 minutes in some clinics
Mirror check: You'll see immediate results (with swelling)

Post-Treatment Instructions:

Receive verbal + written instructions (request English version)
Common instructions:
- No touching/pressing for 24 hours
- No makeup for 12-24 hours (lasers/injections)
- Avoid hot showers, saunas, exercise for 24-48 hours
- Sleep elevated (filler/Botox patients)
- Apply ice packs for swelling

Aftercare Products:

Clinics often sell post-treatment products (₩30,000-₩150,000 / $23-$115)
You can decline and buy at pharmacy/Olive Young instead (usually cheaper)
Essential purchases: Cica cream, gentle cleanser, SPF50+ sunscreen

Payment & Checkout

Payment Methods

Accepted Forms:

✅ Cash (₩): Often gives 5-10% discount
✅ Credit Card: Visa, Mastercard widely accepted
✅ Debit Card: Some clinics accept
✅ Alipay/WeChat Pay: For Chinese patients at some clinics
❌ Personal checks: Not accepted
❌ Insurance: Cosmetic procedures not covered

Getting a Receipt:

Request detailed receipt (영수증) for tax refund
Should include:
- Clinic name and registration number
- Date of service
- Itemized list of procedures
- Total amount paid
- VAT included (8-10%)

Tax Refund Eligibility:

Foreign tourists can claim 8-10% VAT refund
Minimum purchase: ₩30,000 ($23)
Process at airport Tax Refund counter
Keep original receipts + passport

Follow-Up Appointment Scheduling

When to Schedule:

Botox/Filler: 2-4 weeks later (free touch-up usually included)
Laser Series: Book all sessions at once (package discount)
HIFU: Follow-up check 2-4 weeks later
Skin Booster: Book next session (usually 2-4 weeks apart)

How to Contact Clinic:

Get doctor's/coordinator's KakaoTalk ID or WhatsApp
Save clinic phone number in your phone
Email address for non-urgent questions

Common First-Visit Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Mistake #1: Booking Treatment Same Day as Arrival

Why It's Bad:

Jet lag affects skin (dehydration, inflammation)
Can't assess clinic quality before committing
No time to compare prices at multiple clinics

What to Do Instead:

Arrive Day 1: Rest
Day 2: Consultations only at 2-3 clinics
Day 3: Book treatment at preferred clinic

❌ Mistake #2: Not Asking About Total Cost

Why It's Bad:

Hidden fees: Consultation (₩5,000), anesthesia (₩30,000), aftercare products (₩80,000)
"Trial price" is just the product, not full service

What to Do Instead:

Ask: "총 비용이 정확히 얼마예요?" (What is the exact total cost?)
Confirm what's included: consultation, anesthesia, follow-up

❌ Mistake #3: Accepting "Recommended Upgrades" Without Questioning

Why It's Bad:

You came for laser toning (₩70,000), leave having paid for Botox + filler + skin booster (₩500,000)
Upselling tactics are common

What to Do Instead:

Stick to your original plan unless upgrade is medically necessary
Ask: "Is this absolutely necessary for the result I want?"
It's okay to say no

❌ Mistake #4: Signing Korean-Only Consent Forms

Why It's Bad:

You don't know what you're consenting to
Legally problematic if complications occur

What to Do Instead:

Request English consent form (legally required for foreign patients)
If unavailable, use Papago to translate before signing
Don't sign if uncomfortable

❌ Mistake #5: Booking Complex Procedures Last Minute

Why It's Bad:

Thread lift, HIFU need 3-5 days swelling time
Flying with severe swelling is uncomfortable
No time for follow-up if issues arise

What to Do Instead:

Schedule major procedures in first half of trip
Leave 3-5 days before departure for recovery
Simple procedures (Botox, laser toning) can be last few days

❌ Mistake #6: Not Reading Reviews

Why It's Bad:

Fall for marketing over actual patient experiences
Don't learn about clinic's weaknesses beforehand

What to Do Instead:

Read 20+ reviews on Gangnam Unni
Check Google reviews (search clinic name in English + Korean)
Look for patterns in complaints

❌ Mistake #7: Ignoring Post-Treatment Instructions

Why It's Bad:

Touching filler area = migration
Sun exposure after laser = hyperpigmentation
Exercise after Botox = spread to unintended muscles

What to Do Instead:

Take photo of written instructions
Set phone reminders for "no exercise" period
Buy recommended aftercare products (or equivalents)

Cultural Tips & Etiquette

How Korean Clinics Differ from Western Clinics

Differences:

Hierarchy: Doctors are highly respected, don't interrupt or argue
Directness: Korean doctors may bluntly say "This won't work on you" (not rude, just honest)
Silence: Doctors may examine without small talk (normal, focus on work)
Efficiency: Appointments are faster-paced than Western clinics
Touch: Physical examination is common (dermatologist will touch your face)

Appropriate Behavior:

✅ Bow slightly when greeting doctor (45-degree bow shows respect)
✅ Use formal language: "감사합니다" (gamsahamnida = thank you, formal)
✅ Remove shoes if entering treatment room (some clinics)
✅ Accept business card with two hands
✅ Be on time (early is better than late)

Avoid:

❌ Arguing with doctor in front of staff (causes "loss of face")
❌ Being late without calling
❌ Being overly loud or demanding
❌ Taking photos without permission

Tipping Culture

The Rule: No tipping in Korean medical clinics

Tipping is not expected or customary
May even offend (implies they're service workers, not medical professionals)
If you loved the service, leave a good review on Gangnam Unni instead

Emergency Phrases

Essential Korean for First Visit

At Reception:

"I have an appointment" = "예약했어요" (Yeyak-haesseoyo)
"I don't have an appointment" = "예약 안 했어요" (Yeyak an haesseoyo)
"Do you speak English?" = "영어 할 수 있어요?" (Yeong-eo hal su isseoyo?)

During Consultation:

"I don't understand" = "이해 못 했어요" (Ihae mot haesseoyo)
"Please write it down" = "써 주세요" (Sseo juseyo)
"Please speak slowly" = "천천히 말해 주세요" (Cheoncheonhi malhae juseyo)

During Treatment:

"It hurts" = "아파요" (Apayo)
"It hurts a lot" = "너무 아파요" (Neomu apayo)
"Please stop" = "멈춰 주세요" (Meomchwo juseyo)
"I feel dizzy" = "어지러워요" (Eojireowoyo)

At Payment:

"How much is it?" = "얼마예요?" (Eolmayeyo?)
"Can I pay by card?" = "카드로 계산할 수 있어요?" (Kadeuro gyesan-hal su isseoyo?)
"Receipt please" = "영수증 주세요" (Yeongsujeung juseyo)

General:

"Help!" = "도와주세요!" (Dowa juseyo!)
"Call ambulance" = "119 불러주세요" (119 bulleo juseyo)
"I need a translator" = "통역사가 필요해요" (Tongyeoksa-ga piryohaeyo)

After Your Visit: Next Steps

Monitoring Results

Timeline to Final Results:

Botox: 3-7 days (full effect at 14 days)
Filler: 2 weeks (after swelling subsides)
Laser Toning: Gradual over 4-8 weeks
Skin Booster: 2-4 weeks post-final session
HIFU: 2-3 months (collagen regeneration)

What's Normal:

Swelling for 2-7 days (varies by treatment)
Mild bruising for 3-10 days
Redness for 1-3 days
Small bumps (skin boosters) for 2-3 days
Dryness/flaking (lasers) for 3-7 days

When to Contact Clinic:

⚠️ Severe pain not relieved by over-the-counter painkillers
⚠️ Skin blanching (turning white) after filler
⚠️ Vision changes
⚠️ Signs of infection (pus, fever, increasing redness)
⚠️ Asymmetry worsening after 1 week

Leaving Reviews

Where to Review:

Gangnam Unni (강남언니): Upload before/after photos, detailed review
Google Maps: English review helps other foreign patients
Modoodoc: Korean platform, but accepts English reviews
TripAdvisor: Medical tourism section

What to Include:

✅ Doctor name
✅ Treatment received
✅ Total cost (transparency helps others)
✅ Language support quality
✅ Results timeline
✅ Would you return?

Incentive: Some clinics offer discounts (10-20%) on future visits for detailed reviews

Final Checklist: Are You Ready?

Before Leaving Hotel:

Mental Preparation:

Realistic expectations set
Budget confirmed
Know how to say "no" if pressured
Comfortable walking away if clinic doesn't feel right
Ready to communicate through translation apps

Post-Visit:

Save receipt for tax refund
Add clinic contact to phone
Take photo of aftercare instructions
Buy post-treatment products (Cica cream, sunscreen)
Set follow-up appointment reminder

Conclusion

Your first Korean dermatology visit doesn't have to be intimidating. With proper preparation—bringing essential documents, researching clinics, preparing questions, and understanding cultural norms—you'll navigate the experience confidently. Remember: it's okay to take your time, visit multiple clinics, ask questions, and say no to treatments that don't feel right.

Korean dermatologists are among the world's best, with cutting-edge technology and expertise in both medical and aesthetic treatments. By following this guide, you're setting yourself up for a safe, effective, and satisfying first visit that could be the beginning of your Korean skincare journey.

Ready for your first visit? Review this guide the night before, pack your essentials, and walk into that clinic with confidence. Your Korean glass skin awaits!

Medical Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about visiting Korean dermatology clinics. Individual clinic procedures may vary. Always follow specific instructions from your chosen clinic and doctor. Cosmetic procedures carry risks—ensure you understand them fully before proceeding.

Legal Disclaimer: Consent form requirements and patient rights mentioned reflect Korean medical law as of 2025. For specific legal questions, consult a Korean medical law attorney. This guide does not constitute legal or medical advice.