Botox in Korea: Complete Guide, Brands, Prices & Best Clinics 2025

Botox has become one of the most popular and accessible cosmetic treatments in Korea, offering quick, effective solutions for wrinkles, facial slimming, and excessive sweating. With multiple brands available at competitive prices, Seoul has become a global destination for quality Botox treatments. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting Botox in Korea.

What is Botox?

Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin type A, a purified neurotoxin that temporarily paralyzes muscles by blocking nerve signals. When injected into targeted muscles, it prevents them from contracting, which smooths wrinkles, reduces muscle bulk, and can control excessive sweating.

Originally developed for medical purposes, botulinum toxin has become the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment worldwide. While "Botox" technically refers to Allergan's brand, the term is commonly used to describe all botulinum toxin products.

How It Works:

1. Botulinum toxin is injected into targeted muscles
2. The toxin blocks acetylcholine (neurotransmitter) release
3. Muscle contraction is temporarily prevented
4. Wrinkles smooth out and muscle size reduces
5. Effects develop over 3-7 days and last 3-6 months

Popular Botox Treatment Areas

Facial Wrinkles (Cosmetic)

Forehead Lines

• Horizontal lines across forehead
• Price: ₩30,000-₩80,000 ($23-$62)
• Units needed: 10-30 units

Glabellar Lines (Frown Lines)

• Vertical lines between eyebrows
• Price: ₩30,000-₩100,000 ($23-$77)
• Units needed: 15-25 units

Crow's Feet

• Lines around outer eyes
• Price: ₩40,000-₩120,000 ($31-$92)
• Units needed: 12-24 units (both sides)

Bunny Lines

• Wrinkles on nose bridge
• Price: ₩20,000-₩50,000 ($15-$38)
• Units needed: 5-10 units

Facial Contouring

Jaw Reduction (Square Jaw)

• Slimming masseter muscles for V-line face
• Price: ₩50,000-₩200,000 ($38-$155)
• Units needed: 30-50 units per side
• Results: 2-3 months, lasts 6-12 months

Gummy Smile Correction

• Reducing excessive gum show when smiling
• Price: ₩30,000-₩80,000 ($23-$62)
• Units needed: 2-4 units

Chin Dimpling

• Smoothing chin "orange peel" texture
• Price: ₩20,000-₩60,000 ($15-$46)
• Units needed: 4-8 units

Body Applications

Calf Slimming

• Reducing bulky gastrocnemius muscles
• Price: ₩100,000-₩500,000 ($77-$385)
• Units needed: 100-200 units per leg
• Results visible in 1-2 months

Shoulder Slimming (Trapezius)

• Reducing broad, bulky shoulders
• Price: ₩150,000-₩400,000 ($115-$310)
• Units needed: 50-100 units per side

Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)

• Underarms, palms, feet
• Price: ₩200,000-₩600,000 ($155-$462)
• Units needed: 50-100 units per area
• Lasts 6-12 months

Botox Brands Available in Korea

Korea offers both internationally recognized brands and high-quality domestic products. Understanding the differences helps you make informed decisions.

1. Allergan Botox (American) - The Gold Standard

Manufacturer: Allergan (AbbVie), USA Approvals: FDA, KFDA, 98+ countries Purity: 99.5% drug purity Molecular Weight: 900 kDa

Characteristics:

• Original and most researched brand
• Highest purity (99.5%)
• Lowest risk of antibody resistance
• Predictable, consistent results
• Most expensive option

Best For:

• First-time Botox users
• Precision treatments (crow's feet, forehead)
• Patients concerned about safety and efficacy
• Those prioritizing brand recognition

Market Share in Korea: ~5%

Price Premium: 2-3x more expensive than Korean brands

2. Nabota/Jeuveau (Korean) - FDA-Approved Korean Brand

Manufacturer: Daewoong Pharmaceutical, South Korea Approvals: FDA, KFDA, multiple countries Purity: High (comparable to Allergan) Molecular Weight: 900 kDa

Characteristics:

• Only Korean brand with FDA approval
• Marketed as "Jeuveau" in the USA
• High purity and quality standards
• Fast-acting results (3-5 days)
• Excellent value for money
• 32% market share in Korea

Best For:

• Budget-conscious patients wanting quality
• Facial wrinkle treatments
• Regular Botox users
• Those seeking FDA-approved products at Korean prices

Market Share in Korea: 32%

Price Position: Mid-range (affordable yet quality)

3. Meditoxin/Neuronox (Korean) - Most Popular in Korea

Manufacturer: Medytox, South Korea Approvals: KFDA, multiple Asian/European countries Purity: High Molecular Weight: 900 kDa

Characteristics:

• Most used brand by Korean dermatologists (62.3% preference)
• Established track record in Korea since 2007
• Stable, reliable results
• Most affordable option
• Extensive clinical experience in Korea

Best For:

• Large treatment areas (jaw, calves)
• Budget treatments
• Regular maintenance
• Patients comfortable with Korean brands

Market Share in Korea: 40%+ (highest)

Price Position: Most affordable

4. Dysport (European) - Fast-Acting, Wide Spread

Manufacturer: Ipsen, France Approvals: FDA, KFDA, global Purity: High Molecular Weight: 500-750 kDa

Characteristics:

• Lower molecular weight = faster diffusion
• Spreads more easily than Botox
• Fast-acting (2-3 days onset)
• Ideal for large surface areas
• Different unit dosing (requires more units)

Best For:

• Large muscle areas (calves, shoulders, forehead)
• Quick results needed
• Treating hyperhidrosis
• Patients wanting fast onset

Market Share in Korea: ~10-15%

Price Position: Slightly lower than Allergan

5. Xeomin/Bocouture (German) - "Naked" Neurotoxin

Manufacturer: Merz Pharma, Germany Approvals: FDA, KFDA, global Purity: Highest (no complexing proteins) Molecular Weight: 150 kDa (smallest)

Characteristics:

• Purest formulation (no accessory proteins)
• Lowest risk of antibody formation
• No refrigeration needed
• Ideal for patients with Botox resistance
• More localized effect (less spreading)

Best For:

• Patients with previous Botox resistance
• Precision treatments
• Those with protein sensitivities
• Long-term regular users

Market Share in Korea: ~5%

Price Position: Similar to Allergan

6. Botulax (Korean) - Budget Option

Manufacturer: Hugel, South Korea Approvals: KFDA, some international markets Purity: Standard Molecular Weight: 900 kDa

Characteristics:

• Second most popular Korean brand
• Very affordable
• Decent efficacy
• Used primarily in Korea

Best For:

• Budget-conscious treatments
• Large area treatments
• Maintenance sessions

Market Share in Korea: 18.7%

Price Position: Very affordable (second to Meditoxin)

Botox Brand Comparison Table

Botox Prices in Korea (2025)

Facial Treatments

Body Treatments

Prices as of November 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD. Actual costs vary by clinic, location, and units used.

Price Factors

What Affects Botox Pricing:

1. Brand: Allergan costs 2-3x more than Korean brands
2. Units Used: More units = higher cost
3. Treatment Area: Large muscles (jaw, calves) require more units
4. Clinic Location: Gangnam charges 30-50% premium
5. Doctor Experience: Specialists may charge more
6. Promotions: First-time discounts common (30-50% off)

Botox Procedure: What to Expect

Before Treatment (10-15 minutes)

1. Consultation: Discussion of concerns and goals
2. Assessment: Evaluation of facial muscles and symmetry
3. Photography: Before photos taken
4. Marking: Treatment points marked on face
5. Consent: Understanding risks and signing forms

During Treatment (10-30 minutes)

1. Cleansing: Treatment area cleaned
2. Optional Numbing: Topical anesthetic or ice (usually unnecessary)
3. Injection: Small amounts injected into targeted muscles
4. Multiple Points: Several injection sites per area
5. Pressure Application: Brief pressure to minimize bruising

Pain Level: Minimal (1-2 out of 10). Feels like tiny pinpricks.

Duration: 10-30 minutes depending on areas treated

After Treatment (Immediate)

• No downtime required
• Can return to normal activities
• Avoid rubbing or massaging treated areas
• Stay upright for 4 hours
• No strenuous exercise for 24 hours

Results Timeline and Duration

Immediate (Day 1-2)

• Slight redness at injection sites (resolves within hours)
• Possible minor bruising (rare)
• No visible effects yet

Early Results (Day 3-7)

• Effects begin to appear
• Gradual muscle relaxation starts
• Wrinkles begin smoothing

Full Results (Day 10-14)

• Maximum effect achieved
• Wrinkles significantly reduced
• Facial slimming visible (jaw, calves take longer)

Duration

• Wrinkle Treatment: 3-6 months typically
• Jaw Reduction: 6-12 months (muscle shrinks over time)
• Calf Slimming: 6-12 months
• Hyperhidrosis: 6-12 months

Maintenance

• Repeat treatments every 3-6 months for wrinkles
• Regular treatments may extend duration over time
• Muscle treatments (jaw, calves) may need less frequent touch-ups

Side Effects and Risks

Common (Temporary)

• Mild pain at injection sites
• Small bruises (10-20% of patients)
• Slight swelling (resolves within hours)
• Headache (usually mild, rare)

Uncommon

• Temporary drooping of eyelid or brow (1-3%)
• Asymmetry (usually due to natural facial asymmetry)
• Flu-like symptoms (rare)
• Difficulty swallowing (neck treatments)

Rare but Serious

• Allergic reactions (extremely rare)
• Spread of toxin to unintended areas
• Breathing difficulties (very rare)
• Vision problems (very rare)

Important: When performed by qualified practitioners using proper techniques, Botox is very safe with decades of clinical use.

Aftercare Guidelines

First 24 Hours

• ✅ Stay upright for 4 hours (no lying down)
• ✅ Avoid touching or rubbing treated areas
• ✅ Skip strenuous exercise
• ✅ Avoid alcohol
• ❌ No facials or massages
• ❌ No extreme heat (saunas, hot yoga)

First Week

• ✅ Sleep on your back if possible
• ✅ Continue normal skincare (gentle application)
• ✅ Be patient as results develop
• ❌ No other facial treatments
• ❌ Avoid prolonged sun exposure

Maximizing Results

• ✅ Facial exercises may help activate treated muscles
• ✅ Follow recommended treatment schedule
• ✅ Maintain consistent practitioner for best results
• ✅ Communicate any concerns early

Authentic Botox vs Counterfeit: Critical Warning

The Problem in Korea: Due to Botox's popularity and profitability, counterfeit or improperly stored products exist in the market. Some clinics may use:

• Diluted products (stretched to increase profit)
• Counterfeit packaging
• Expired products
• Improperly stored products (neurotoxin requires refrigeration)
• Unlicensed imports

How to Ensure Authentic Botox:

1. ✅ Verify Packaging: Ask to see unopened product vial
2. ✅ Check Authenticity: Look for official holograms and serial numbers
3. ✅ Request Documentation: Ask for product information sheet
4. ✅ Choose Reputable Clinics: Established clinics with good reviews
5. ✅ Avoid Suspiciously Low Prices: If it's too cheap, question authenticity
6. ✅ Ask About Storage: Botox must be refrigerated
7. ✅ Verify Expiration Date: Check product hasn't expired

Red Flags:

• Prices 50-70% below market average
• Clinic refuses to show product packaging
• No visible branding or labels
• Vague answers about product source
• High-pressure sales tactics

Choosing the Right Botox Brand

Choose Allergan If:

• First time getting Botox
• Want the most researched, proven brand
• Prioritize safety over cost
• Need precise, predictable results
• Budget is not a concern

Choose Nabota If:

• Want FDA-approved product at Korean prices
• Seeking balance of quality and value
• Regular Botox user comfortable with newer brands
• Budget-conscious but quality-focused

Choose Meditoxin/Botulax If:

• Budget is primary concern
• Treating large areas (jaw, calves, shoulders)
• Comfortable with established Korean brands
• Regular maintenance treatments

Choose Dysport If:

• Need fast results (event coming up)
• Treating large surface areas
• Want wide, even spread
• Have used it successfully before

Choose Xeomin If:

• Developed resistance to other brands
• Want purest formulation
• Protein sensitivity concerns
• Long-term regular user

Best Seoul Areas for Botox

Gangnam District (강남구)

Average Price Range: Premium (30-50% higher) Best For: International brands, experienced doctors, luxury experience Popular Areas: Apgujeong, Cheongdam, Gangnam Station Typical Costs:

• Korean brands: ₩50,000-₩150,000
• Allergan: ₩150,000-₩350,000

Pros: Highest quality, English support, proven track record Cons: Most expensive

Myeongdong/Jung-gu (명동)

Average Price Range: Mid-range Best For: Tourists, central location, accessibility Popular Areas: Myeongdong shopping district Typical Costs:

• Korean brands: ₩30,000-₩100,000
• Allergan: ₩100,000-₩250,000

Pros: Tourist-friendly, convenient, competitive pricing Cons: Variable quality, crowded

Hongdae/Sinchon (홍대/신촌)

Average Price Range: Budget-friendly Best For: Students, first-timers, budget-conscious Popular Areas: University districts Typical Costs:

• Korean brands: ₩20,000-₩80,000
• Allergan: ₩80,000-₩200,000

Pros: Most affordable, good value Cons: Verify product authenticity carefully

Who is a Good Candidate?

Ideal Candidates:

• Age 18+ with wrinkles or muscle concerns
• Good general health
• Realistic expectations
• Not pregnant or breastfeeding
• No neuromuscular disorders
• Seeking non-surgical solutions

Not Suitable For:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Neuromuscular diseases (myasthenia gravis, ALS)
• Allergies to botulinum toxin
• Active skin infections in treatment area
• Unrealistic expectations for dramatic facial change

Tips for International Patients

Before Your Trip

1. Research Clinics: Check reviews on Gangnam Unni, Naver, Google
2. Book Consultations: Schedule 2-3 clinics for quotes
3. Verify Authenticity: Ask clinics about brand and authenticity guarantees
4. Clarify Pricing: Understand exact costs and units
5. Plan Timing: Allow 2 weeks before important events

During Consultation

1. Discuss Brand Preference: Ask what brands are available
2. Ask About Experience: How many Botox treatments has doctor performed?
3. Request Portfolio: View before/after photos
4. Verify Product: Ask to see unopened vial before treatment
5. Clarify Units: Understand how many units will be used
6. Get Written Quote: Avoid surprise charges

Maximizing Results

1. Choose Authentic Product: Don't compromise on product quality
2. Follow Aftercare: Critical for optimal results
3. Be Patient: Results take 7-14 days to fully develop
4. Communicate: Report any concerns immediately
5. Plan Maintenance: Schedule follow-up before effects wear off

FAQ

Q: Does Botox hurt? A: Most patients rate it 1-2 out of 10. It feels like tiny pinpricks. No numbing typically needed.

Q: How long does Botox last? A: Typically 3-6 months for wrinkles, 6-12 months for jaw/calf reduction. Duration increases with regular treatments.

Q: When will I see results? A: Initial effects in 3-7 days, full results by 10-14 days.

Q: Can I exercise after Botox? A: Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours. Light activity is fine after 4 hours.

Q: Will Botox make me look frozen? A: When done properly with appropriate doses, Botox allows natural expressions while reducing wrinkles.

Q: Is Korean Botox safe? A: Yes. FDA-approved Korean brands like Nabota are held to the same safety standards as international brands. Choose reputable clinics.

Q: What's better: Korean or American Botox? A: Allergan (American) has the longest track record and highest purity. FDA-approved Korean brands like Nabota offer excellent quality at lower prices.

Q: Can Botox go wrong? A: Complications are rare with experienced practitioners. Temporary drooping (1-3%) is the most common issue and resolves on its own.

Q: How many units do I need? A: Forehead: 10-30 units, Crow's feet: 12-24 units, Frown lines: 15-25 units, Jaw: 30-50 units per side.

Conclusion

Botox treatments in Korea offer exceptional quality and value, with prices often 50-70% lower than Western countries. Whether you choose the gold-standard Allergan Botox (₩100,000-₩350,000 per area) or FDA-approved Korean brand Nabota (₩40,000-₩180,000 per area), you'll find experienced practitioners and competitive pricing in Seoul.

The key to successful Botox treatment is choosing authentic products from reputable clinics, understanding the differences between brands, and having realistic expectations. With proper product selection and experienced practitioners, Botox provides safe, effective, and natural-looking results that can smooth wrinkles, slim the face, and boost confidence.

From quick wrinkle treatments taking just 10-15 minutes to comprehensive facial slimming procedures, Botox has become the most accessible and popular cosmetic treatment in Korea's thriving aesthetic industry.

Ready to turn back time with Botox? Research reputable clinics, verify product authenticity, choose the right brand for your needs and budget, and prepare for natural-looking results that develop over 7-14 days and last 3-6 months.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Botox treatments in Korea. It is not intended as medical advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Botox is a prescription medication and medical procedure with potential risks and side effects. Individual results vary based on facial anatomy, age, muscle strength, injector skill, and other factors. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine if Botox is appropriate for your specific situation and to understand all risks and benefits before undergoing treatment. Ensure treatment uses authentic, properly stored botulinum toxin products from licensed manufacturers.

Last Updated: November 10, 2025 Reading Time: 15 minutes