Korean Laser Treatment Prices 2025: Complete Price Guide & Comparison
If you're considering laser treatments in Korea, you're in the right place. Korean dermatology clinics offer world-class laser technology at prices that are 50-70% lower than Western countries. This comprehensive 2025 price guide covers everything you need to know about laser treatment costs in Seoul and how to get the best deals.
Why Choose Korea for Laser Treatments?
Korea is at the forefront of skincare technology, with cutting-edge laser equipment and highly experienced dermatologists. The competitive market in Seoul, particularly in areas like Gangnam and Apgujeong, drives prices down while maintaining exceptional quality standards.
Key advantages:
- Advanced laser technology (Pico laser, Fraxel, CO2)
- Experienced dermatologists specializing in Asian skin
- Competitive pricing with transparent costs
- Package deals and promotional offers
- No appointment wait times compared to Western countries
Complete 2025 Laser Treatment Price List
Based on data from major Seoul dermatology clinics and price comparison platforms like Modoodoc and Gangnam Unni, here are the current prices for popular laser treatments:
1. Laser Toning (레이저토닝)
What it treats: Melasma, pigmentation, uneven skin tone, dullness
Price per session:
- Standard clinics: ₩70,000-₩120,000 ($54-$92)
- Gangnam premium clinics: ₩110,000-₩150,000 ($85-$115)
- Promotional events: ₩15,000-₩40,000 ($12-$31)
Package prices:
- 5 sessions: ₩350,000-₩450,000 ($270-$346)
- 10 sessions: ₩600,000-₩900,000 ($462-$692)
Average: ₩90,000 per session ($69)
Laser toning is one of the most popular and affordable treatments in Korea. The average price of ₩90,000 per session makes it accessible for regular maintenance. Most dermatologists recommend 5-10 sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart for optimal results.
2. Pico Laser / Pico Toning (피코레이저)
What it treats: Stubborn pigmentation, tattoo removal, acne scars, skin rejuvenation
Price per session:
- Entry-level: ₩45,000-₩70,000 ($35-$54)
- Standard treatment: ₩150,000-₩250,000 ($115-$192)
- Premium Pico Sure: ₩250,000-₩550,000 ($192-$423)
Package prices:
- Pico Brightening Course (10 sessions): ₩900,000 ($692)
- Pico Healing Course (10 sessions): ₩1,100,000 ($846)
Average: ₩200,000 per session ($154)
Pico laser is the newest generation of laser technology, offering faster results with less downtime. While more expensive than traditional laser toning, it's significantly more effective for stubborn pigmentation and deep acne scars.
3. Fractional Laser / Fraxel (프락셀)
What it treats: Acne scars, wrinkles, large pores, skin texture, stretch marks
Price per session:
- Standard Fraxel: ₩140,000-₩330,000 ($108-$254)
- By facial zone: ₩22,000-₩33,000 ($17-$25)
- Full face treatment: ₩180,000-₩300,000 ($138-$231)
Average: ₩220,000 per full face session ($169)
Recommended: 3-5 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart
Fractional laser prices vary significantly based on the treatment area. Many clinics offer zone-specific pricing (cheeks, forehead, chin) which can be more economical if you only need targeted treatment.
4. CO2 Fractional Laser
What it treats: Deep acne scars, wrinkles, skin resurfacing, warts, mole removal
Price per session:
- Standard CO2: ₩300,000-₩500,000 ($231-$385)
- Deep resurfacing: ₩400,000-₩600,000 ($308-$462)
Average: ₩400,000 per session ($308)
Downtime: 5-7 days with visible peeling and redness
CO2 laser is the most intensive fractional laser treatment, providing dramatic results for severe scarring and deep wrinkles. The higher price reflects the complexity of the procedure and required expertise.
5. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photofacial
What it treats: Redness, broken capillaries, sun damage, freckles, mild pigmentation
Price per session:
- Standard IPL: ₩50,000-₩150,000 ($38-$115)
- Premium machines: ₩100,000-₩200,000 ($77-$154)
- Event prices: ₩20,000-₩50,000 ($15-$38)
Package prices:
- 5 sessions: ₩300,000-₩600,000 ($231-$462)
- 10 sessions: ₩500,000-₩900,000 ($385-$692)
Average: ₩100,000 per session ($77)
Recommended: 3-5 sessions every 3-4 weeks
IPL is excellent for treating redness and vascular issues. It's gentler than laser toning with minimal to no downtime, making it popular for busy professionals.
6. Genesis Laser (제네시스 레이저)
What it treats: Redness, large pores, fine lines, overall skin rejuvenation
Price per session:
- Standard Genesis: ₩80,000-₩150,000 ($62-$115)
- Combined with other treatments: ₩120,000-₩200,000 ($92-$154)
Average: ₩120,000 per session ($92)
Genesis laser is known as a "lunchtime facial" with zero downtime. Many patients combine it with laser toning or IPL for comprehensive skin improvement.
7. PDT (Photodynamic Therapy) Laser
What it treats: Severe acne, oil control, acne bacteria, enlarged pores
Price per session:
- Standard PDT: ₩150,000-₩350,000 ($115-$269)
- Premium PDT with mask: ₩200,000-₩590,000 ($154-$454)
Average: ₩233,855 per session ($180)
PDT involves applying a photosensitizing solution before laser treatment, making it highly effective for treating stubborn acne and controlling oil production.
Seoul vs. US Price Comparison
Here's how Korean laser prices compare to major US cities (Los Angeles and New York):
| Treatment Type | Seoul Average | US Average | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laser Toning | $69 | $250-$400 | 72-83% |
| Pico Laser | $154 | $500-$800 | 69-80% |
| Fraxel Laser | $169 | $800-$1,200 | 79-86% |
| CO2 Laser | $308 | $1,500-$2,500 | 79-88% |
| IPL Photofacial | $77 | $300-$500 | 74-84% |
| Genesis Laser | $92 | $350-$500 | 74-82% |
| PDT Treatment | $180 | $600-$900 | 70-80% |
Example savings for a complete treatment course:
If you're planning a typical acne scar treatment course (5 Fraxel sessions + 10 laser toning sessions):
- Seoul: (5 × $169) + (10 × $69) = $1,535
- US: (5 × $1,000) + (10 × $300) = $8,000
- Total savings: $6,465 (81% cheaper)
Even with flight and accommodation costs (approximately $1,500-$2,000 for a week in Seoul), you'd still save over $4,000 while enjoying a skincare vacation in one of the world's beauty capitals.
Understanding Package Deals
Most Korean dermatology clinics offer significant discounts for package purchases. Here's what you need to know:
Common Package Types
1. Single Treatment Packages
- 5 sessions: 10-15% discount
- 10 sessions: 20-30% discount
- Example: Laser toning 10-pack for ₩600,000 vs. ₩900,000 individual
2. Combination Packages
- Popular combo: Laser toning + IPL (5 sessions each): ₩800,000 ($615)
- Acne package: PDT + Fraxel (3 sessions each): ₩1,200,000 ($923)
- Anti-aging package: Pico + Genesis (5 sessions each): ₩1,500,000 ($1,154)
3. Monthly Unlimited Packages
- Some clinics offer unlimited specific treatments for 1-3 months
- Typical price: ₩500,000-₩1,000,000 ($385-$769) per month
- Best for aggressive treatment plans
Package Purchase Tips
When packages make sense:
- You're planning multiple sessions (most laser treatments require 3-5 sessions)
- You're staying in Korea for 2+ weeks
- You have chronic skin concerns requiring ongoing treatment
When to skip packages:
- First-time trying a treatment (buy 1-2 sessions first)
- Short Korea visit (3-5 days)
- Uncertain about committing to one clinic
Important: Most packages are valid for 6-12 months and may not be transferable between clinics. Always ask about expiration dates and refund policies before purchasing.
Factors Affecting Laser Treatment Prices
Understanding what influences pricing helps you make informed decisions:
1. Location and Clinic Prestige
Gangnam/Apgujeong premium clinics: 30-50% higher prices
- Celebrity dermatologists
- Latest equipment
- Luxurious facilities
- English-speaking staff
Neighborhood clinics: More affordable pricing
- Experienced dermatologists
- Standard equipment (still high quality)
- Korean-speaking staff primarily
- Less marketing overhead
2. Equipment Type and Technology
Latest generation machines cost more:
- Pico Sure vs. older Pico lasers: 50-100% price difference
- Fraxel Dual vs. generic fractional: 30-50% higher
- New IPL machines vs. older models: 20-40% difference
Note: Newer isn't always better for every skin concern. Experienced dermatologists can achieve excellent results with older-generation equipment.
3. Dermatologist Experience Level
Pricing tiers:
- Senior director dermatologist: +30-50%
- Mid-level dermatologist: Standard pricing
- Junior dermatologist/nurse practitioner: -20-30%
Important: In Korea, even junior dermatologists have extensive training. The quality difference is often minimal for routine procedures like laser toning.
4. Treatment Intensity and Coverage
Area coverage affects price:
- Full face: Standard pricing
- Partial face (spot treatment): 30-50% less
- Face + neck: 30-50% more
- Body areas (back, chest): Varies significantly
Intensity settings:
- Gentle/maintenance settings: Standard price
- Aggressive/deep treatment: 20-40% higher
- Double-pass treatments: 50-100% more
5. Seasonal and Promotional Pricing
Best times for deals:
- January-February: Post-holiday promotions (30-50% off)
- June-July: Summer specials before peak season
- November: Black Friday/pre-holiday events
Avoid peak pricing:
- August (Korean vacation season)
- December-January (winter skincare peak)
- Chinese New Year period (high demand from tourists)
How to Find the Best Laser Treatment Deals
1. Use Korean Price Comparison Platforms
Top platforms for comparing prices:
Gangnam Unni (강남언니)
- 400+ dermatology clinics listed
- Real patient reviews with photos
- Special app-only discounts (often 10-30% off)
- Filter by treatment type, price, location
Modoodoc (모두닥)
- Transparent pricing from verified clinics
- Average price comparisons
- Package deal listings
- Price range indicators (low/medium/high)
Yeoshin Ticket (여신티켓)
- Discount vouchers and coupons
- Last-minute deals (up to 50% off)
- Combo treatment packages
- English interface available
2. Timing Your Visit
Best months for low prices:
- Late January to early March
- Late June to mid-July
- Early November
Avoid these periods:
- Korean Lunar New Year (late January/early February)
- August (peak domestic tourism)
- Christmas/New Year season
3. Negotiation and First-Visit Discounts
First-time patient discounts:
- Most clinics offer 10-20% off first visit
- Ask: "첫 방문 할인 있나요?" (First visit discount available?)
Bundle negotiations:
- Booking multiple treatments in one visit often gets discounts
- Example: "Laser toning + IPL + skin booster" combo for 30% off total
Cash payment discounts:
- Some clinics offer 5-10% discount for cash payment
- Ask: "현금 결제 할인 되나요?" (Cash payment discount available?)
4. Medical Tourism Packages
Benefits:
- Pre-arranged clinic appointments
- English translator included
- Hotel booking assistance
- Airport pickup
- Often 20-30% more expensive but convenient
When to use:
- First time in Korea
- Limited Korean language skills
- Want hassle-free experience
- Planning multiple procedures
5. Direct Clinic Contact
Instagram and KakaoTalk deals:
- Follow clinic Instagram accounts for exclusive promotions
- Add clinics on KakaoTalk for direct communication
- Many announce flash sales on social media
Email inquiries:
- Send treatment plan requests to multiple clinics
- Compare customized package quotes
- Often receive special pricing for booking in advance
Important Considerations
Exchange Rate Disclaimer
Currency fluctuations impact final cost:
- All prices listed use approximate exchange rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD
- Exchange rates vary daily (typical range: ₩1,250-₩1,350 per dollar)
- Check current rates on XE.com or your bank before budgeting
- Use credit cards with no foreign transaction fees for best rates
Example variance:
- Treatment priced at ₩200,000
- At ₩1,250/$1: $160
- At ₩1,350/$1: $148
- Difference: $12 per session
Insurance and Payment
Insurance coverage:
- Medical laser treatments (acne, scars): Sometimes partially covered by Korean insurance
- Cosmetic treatments: Never covered by insurance
- International insurance: Rarely covers cosmetic procedures abroad
Payment methods accepted:
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard widely accepted)
- Cash (₩ Korean Won)
- Some clinics accept international wire transfers
- Many accept Alipay, WeChat Pay for Chinese visitors
Medical Disclaimer
Important safety information:
- Laser treatments should be performed by licensed dermatologists or trained medical professionals
- Possible side effects include temporary redness, swelling, hyperpigmentation, or burns if performed incorrectly
- Individual results vary based on skin type, condition severity, and lifestyle factors
- Always have a consultation before any laser procedure
- Inform your dermatologist about medications, allergies, and skin sensitivities
- Follow post-treatment care instructions carefully
- Avoid sun exposure and use SPF 50+ sunscreen after laser treatments
- Some treatments may not be suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with qualified dermatologists for personalized treatment recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions will I need?
Treatment requirements vary by concern:
- Pigmentation/melasma: 5-10 laser toning sessions
- Acne scars: 3-5 Fraxel or CO2 laser sessions
- Redness/rosacea: 3-5 IPL sessions
- Skin rejuvenation: 5-10 Genesis or laser toning sessions
- Stubborn pigmentation: 3-5 Pico laser sessions
Most dermatologists recommend spacing sessions 2-4 weeks apart for optimal healing and results.
Can I get multiple laser treatments in one trip?
Yes, but timing matters:
- Gentle treatments (laser toning, IPL, Genesis): Can do every 2-3 days
- Moderate treatments (Pico laser): Wait 1-2 weeks between sessions
- Intensive treatments (Fraxel, CO2): Wait 4-6 weeks between sessions
- Combination approach: Many patients do intensive treatment first, then maintenance treatments while healing
For a 2-week Korea trip, a typical schedule might be:
- Day 1-2: Consultation + first intensive treatment (Fraxel)
- Day 5-7: Gentle treatments (laser toning, IPL)
- Day 10-12: Second round of gentle treatments
- Day 14: Final gentle treatment before departure
Are Korean laser treatments safe for all skin types?
Korean dermatologists specialize in Asian skin (Fitzpatrick types III-IV) but are experienced with all skin types:
- Types I-II (Very fair to fair): Excellent results, lower risk of hyperpigmentation
- Types III-IV (Medium to olive): Ideal for Korean laser protocols
- Types V-VI (Brown to dark brown): Requires experienced dermatologist, higher hyperpigmentation risk
Important: Always disclose your full skin history during consultation. Darker skin types need adjusted laser settings to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
How do I book appointments?
Multiple booking methods:
- Price comparison apps (Gangnam Unni, Modoodoc): Book directly through app
- KakaoTalk: Add clinic's KakaoTalk ID and message in Korean or English
- Instagram: DM clinics for appointment booking
- Phone: Call directly (may require Korean language skills)
- Email: Send inquiry in English (response time: 24-48 hours)
- Walk-in: Possible but not recommended during peak hours
Best practice: Book 1-2 weeks in advance for popular Gangnam clinics, especially during peak seasons.
Will I need downtime?
Downtime varies by treatment intensity:
Zero downtime:
- Laser toning: Immediate return to activities
- IPL: Slight redness for 2-4 hours
- Genesis: No visible effects
Minimal downtime (1-3 days):
- Pico laser: Mild redness, possible light scabbing
- Light Fraxel: Redness and slight roughness
Moderate downtime (5-7 days):
- Aggressive Fraxel: Visible peeling and redness
- CO2 laser: Significant peeling, crusting, swelling
Planning tip: Schedule intensive treatments at the beginning of your trip and gentle treatments toward the end, so you look your best when returning home.
Are the results permanent?
Laser treatment longevity varies:
Long-lasting results (1-3 years):
- CO2 laser for deep scars and wrinkles
- Aggressive Fraxel for acne scarring
- Pico laser for stubborn pigmentation
Maintenance required (3-6 months):
- Laser toning for melasma (often returns without sun protection)
- IPL for redness and rosacea
- Genesis for ongoing skin quality
Lifestyle factors affecting longevity:
- Sun exposure (SPF 50+ daily is essential)
- Skincare routine quality
- Diet and hydration
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)
Best approach: Initial intensive treatment course, then maintenance sessions every 3-6 months.
Can I combine laser with other treatments?
Yes, combination treatments are very popular in Korea:
Safe same-day combinations:
- Laser toning + Skin booster injection
- IPL + LED light therapy
- Genesis + Hydrating facial
- Laser toning + Vitamin C therapy
Requires spacing (1-2 weeks):
- Fraxel + Chemical peel
- CO2 laser + Any other intensive treatment
- Pico laser + Fraxel
Popular combination packages:
- "Brightening Special": Laser toning + Glutathione IV + Vitamin C mask ($150-$250)
- "Acne Complete": PDT + Skin booster + Aqua peel ($250-$350)
- "Anti-aging Premium": Pico + Botox + Filler consultation ($400-$600)
Always consult with your dermatologist about safe treatment combinations for your specific skin concerns.
Final Thoughts
Korean laser treatments offer exceptional value, combining cutting-edge technology, experienced dermatologists, and competitive pricing. With prices 50-70% lower than Western countries and world-class quality, Seoul has become the go-to destination for laser skincare.
Key takeaways:
- Budget $50-$400 per session depending on treatment type
- Package deals save 20-30% on multi-session treatments
- Use Korean price comparison apps for best deals
- Book appointments 1-2 weeks in advance
- Plan your trip timing around seasonal promotions
- Always prioritize dermatologist qualifications over price alone
Whether you're targeting stubborn pigmentation, acne scars, or overall skin rejuvenation, Korea's competitive laser treatment market ensures you'll receive top-tier care at unbeatable prices.
Ready to start your Korean skincare journey? Download Gangnam Unni or Modoodoc to compare clinic prices, read reviews, and book your first laser treatment today.
Sources:
- Modoodoc - PDT Laser Treatment Prices 2025
- Modoodoc - Laser Toning Price Information 2025
- Gangnam Unni - Laser Treatment Price Comparison 2025
- Modoodoc - Pico Toning Price Information 2025
- Modoodoc - Fraxel Laser Price Information 2025
- Modoodoc - IPL Price Information 2025
- BakSkin Care - Facial Scar Laser Average Treatment Costs
