How to Communicate at Korean Dermatology Clinics: Essential Phrases & Tips

South Korea has become the world's top destination for skincare and dermatology treatments, drawing over 670,000 foreign patients in recent years — more than half of them seeking dermatology and cosmetic procedures. The combination of cutting-edge technology, board-certified specialists, and prices 40-70% lower than Western countries makes Korean clinics irresistible. But for many international visitors, the biggest hurdle is not finding a clinic — it is communicating once you get there.

This guide gives you the essential Korean phrases, cultural tips, and practical strategies to navigate your dermatology visit with confidence, even if you speak zero Korean.

Before You Go: Booking an Appointment

Most Korean dermatology clinics prefer scheduled appointments over walk-ins. Here are the phrases you need to book by phone or in person.

Pro tip: Many foreigner-friendly clinics accept bookings through KakaoTalk, Instagram DMs, or their English-language websites. Always confirm that English-speaking staff or translation support will be available on the day of your visit.

Arriving at the Clinic: Check-In Essentials

When you arrive, you will head to the reception desk (접수 / jeopsu). Staff will typically ask you to fill out a medical questionnaire and provide identification.

Most clinics will hand you a clipboard with a medical form (문진표 / munjinpyo). If it is only in Korean, do not be afraid to ask: "영어로 된 것 있어요?" (yeongeo-ro doen geot isseoyo?) — "Do you have one in English?" Many clinics that serve international patients have prepared English versions.

In the Consultation Room: Describing Your Skin Concerns

This is where precise communication matters most. The doctor will typically ask "어떤 증상으로 오셨나요?" (eotteon jeungsang-euro osyeonnayo?) — "What symptoms brought you in today?" Here are the key phrases for describing common skin issues.

Common Skin Concerns

Useful Consultation Sentences

• "얼굴 여드름 때문에 왔어요" (eolgul yeodeureum ttaemune wasseoyo) — "I came because of acne on my face"
• "한 달 정도 됐어요" (han dal jeongdo dwaesseoyo) — "It's been about a month"
• "요즘 스트레스를 좀 받았어요" (yojeum seuteuleseu-reul jom badasseoyo) — "I've been under some stress lately"
• "이 부분이 신경 쓰여요" (i bubun-i singyeong sseuyeoyo) — "This area bothers me"
• "어떤 시술을 추천하세요?" (eotteon sisul-eul chucheonhaseyo?) — "What treatment do you recommend?"

When the doctor gives a diagnosis, they might say something like "염증성 여드름이네요. 약 처방해드리고, 연고도 발라주세요" — "It's inflammatory acne. I'll prescribe medication and please apply this ointment." If you do not understand, simply say: "천천히 말씀해 주세요" (cheoncheonhi malsseumhae juseyo) — "Please speak slowly."

Treatment and Procedure Vocabulary

If you are visiting for cosmetic dermatology — which most international visitors are — you will want to know these treatment-related terms.

Key questions to ask before any procedure:

• "비용이 얼마예요?" (biyong-i eolmayeyo?) — "How much does it cost?"
• "부작용이 있나요?" (bujagyong-i innayo?) — "Are there any side effects?"
• "다운타임이 얼마나 걸려요?" (dauntaim-i eolmana geollyeoyo?) — "How long is the downtime?"

Payment and Checkout

After your treatment, you will head back to reception for payment. Most clinics accept credit cards, and foreign patients can often receive a VAT refund on cosmetic procedures at the airport.

Tax refund tip: Foreign visitors can receive a VAT refund on cosmetic medical procedures. Ask for a tax refund receipt at the clinic and process it at designated counters at Incheon Airport before departure.

Top English-Friendly Dermatology Clinics in Seoul

If the thought of navigating Korean still feels overwhelming, these clinics are well-known for their English-language support:

• AMOA Skin Clinic (Gangnam) — Government-approved, consultations in English, Mandarin, Turkish, Russian, and Spanish
• Ever Skin Clinic (Yongsan) — Board-certified dermatologists with detailed English explanations of all treatments
• Theme Dermatology (Gangnam) — Over 25 years of experience, 4 board-certified dermatologists, located in central Gangnam
• Lijin Skin Clinic (Myeongdong) — Dedicated international patient support with English-speaking staff from consultation through aftercare
• Hushu Clinic (Gangnam) — Multilingual support in English, Mandarin, and Japanese, established since 2008

Translation Apps and Digital Tools

Even at English-friendly clinics, having a translation app ready is smart. Here are the best options:

• Papago (by Naver) — The most accurate Korean-English translator, far better than Google Translate for Korean. Download it before your trip.
• Google Translate camera mode — Point your phone at Korean text on forms or signs for instant translation.
• KakaoTalk translator — If you are chatting with a clinic via KakaoTalk, use the built-in translation feature.
• Flitto — A crowd-sourced translation app popular in Korea for real-time help.

Strategy: Before your appointment, type your skin concerns and questions into Papago and screenshot the Korean translations. Show these to the doctor if verbal communication breaks down.

Cultural Tips for Your Clinic Visit

Understanding Korean clinic etiquette will make your experience smoother and more respectful:

• Bow slightly when greeting staff — A small nod of the head shows politeness. You do not need a deep bow; a 15-degree incline is appropriate.
• Remove your shoes if asked — Some smaller clinics or treatment rooms may require you to switch to indoor slippers.
• Be punctual — Arriving 10-15 minutes early is expected, especially for first visits with paperwork.
• Dress simply — Wear minimal makeup and easy-to-remove clothing if you are getting a facial treatment.
• Do not tip — Tipping is not customary in Korea and can even cause confusion.
• Use two hands — When handing over your card, passport, or receiving documents, using both hands is considered polite.
• Be patient with wait times — Korean dermatology clinics are often busy. Waits of 20-30 minutes even with appointments are normal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to speak Korean to visit a dermatology clinic in Seoul?

No. Many clinics in areas like Gangnam, Myeongdong, and Yongsan have English-speaking coordinators or certified translators. However, learning basic Korean phrases shows respect and helps in clinics without full English support.

Can I get a tax refund on dermatology treatments?

Yes. Foreign visitors can receive a VAT refund on cosmetic medical procedures. Request a tax refund receipt at the clinic and process it at the airport before departure.

How do I book an appointment as a foreigner?

Most foreigner-friendly clinics accept bookings through their English websites, KakaoTalk, Instagram, or email. Some platforms like Mediround specialize in connecting foreign patients with Korean clinics and provide translation support.

What should I bring to my first dermatology appointment?

Bring your passport or foreigner registration card, a list of your skin concerns and any allergies, photos of previous skin conditions or treatments, and your current skincare product list.

How much do dermatology consultations cost in Seoul?

Initial consultations typically range from 10,000-30,000 KRW ($7-22 USD). Cosmetic procedure pricing varies widely, but Korean clinics generally offer treatments at 40-70% less than comparable procedures in the US or Europe.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment. Prices and clinic details are subject to change — confirm directly with your chosen clinic before visiting.