Medical Tourism: Chinese Tourists Flock to South Korea for Affordable Beauty Treatments
Driven by a desire for a refreshed appearance before Lunar New Year celebrations, a growing number of Chinese tourists are travelling to South Korea for cosmetic procedures. This trend reflects a broader pattern of international medical tourism, with South Korea emerging as a popular destination for specific treatments.
Rising Demand for Korean Medical Aesthetics
Lu Xiao, a resident of Beijing, recently underwent Thermage and ultrasound-based facial lifting procedures in Seoul’s Myeongdong district. She chose South Korea after seeing positive results shared on social media, finding the treatments appealing. According to Lu, South Korea offers a price advantage – approximately 10,000 yuan (about $1,450) for her procedures, which is around 40% less than similar costs in China. She also noted concerns about uncertified equipment used in some Chinese facilities.
Lu is not alone. The South Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare reported that the number of medical tourists from China increased by 132% in 2024. This surge positions China as the second-largest source of foreign patients for South Korea, following Japan.
Skin Care Dominates Medical Tourism
Data from the Korea Medical Tourism Promotion Agency, released in December 2025, reveals that dermatology accounted for 57.5% of medical service spending by Chinese tourists in South Korea during 2024. While official 2025 figures are not yet available, industry representatives report continued growth in demand throughout the past year.
Clinics like Diav Clinic in Myeongdong are experiencing a steady increase in Chinese patients, attributed to both repeat visits, and referrals. The clinic attributes this trend to the global popularity of K-beauty and a growing interest in skincare. Chinese customers prioritize cost-effectiveness and reliability, often returning for additional treatments if satisfied, and frequently opting for multiple procedures in a single visit.
Adapting to the Chinese Market
Korean dermatological clinics are actively targeting Chinese customers. Diav Clinic, for example, has established online consultation channels on Chinese social media platforms and provides interpretation services. A 23-year-old Chinese exchange student in South Korea reported being approached in late 2024 to create a video documenting her experience with a free procedure, as clinics increasingly leverage social media and influencers for promotion.
After her treatment, Lu examined her face in a mirror, anticipating more noticeable results in a month. She expressed willingness to return to Seoul for future treatments, citing the reasonable costs and the appeal of prioritizing self-care as she approaches her forties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What motivated Lu Xiao to seek treatment in South Korea?
Lu Xiao was motivated by seeing positive results from skincare treatments shared on social media and a desire to look her best for Lunar New Year celebrations.
What percentage of medical service spending by Chinese tourists in South Korea was attributed to dermatology in 2024?
Dermatology accounted for 57.5% of medical service spending by Chinese tourists in South Korea in 2024.
How are Korean clinics adapting to attract more Chinese patients?
Korean clinics are establishing online consultation channels on Chinese social media, providing interpretation services, and collaborating with influencers to promote their services.
As South Korea continues to attract medical tourists seeking cosmetic procedures, will this trend lead to further investment in the country’s healthcare infrastructure and a greater focus on catering to international patients?