The peak season for Taiwanese and Hong Kongers to travel to Seoul for cosmetic procedures falls between June and August each year – ticket prices are lower, there are numerous summer vacation schedules available, and it’s also an opportunity to enjoy some local activities along the way. However, in 2026, there have been several significant changes: visa requirements have been relaxed, tax refunds have been abolished, and prices have become more transparent. Several of my friends are planning to travel there during the summer vacation, so I thought I would compile all the relevant information they needed into this article, covering everything from visa procedures to budgeting, from choosing the right clinic to making appointments.
I. What new changes will there be in going to South Korea for medical beauty treatments in 2026? Relaxed visa requirements × Cancellation of tax refunds – Let’s clarify this once and for all.
The best news this year is that South Korea has significantly relaxed its visa requirements for travelers from Taiwan. Starting from March 30, 2026, Taiwanese citizens holding valid passports will be able to apply directly for the K-ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). Once approved, this authorization remains valid for three years, eliminating the need to reapply before each trip. Hong Kong citizens holding the Special Administrative Region passport also continue to enjoy visa-free access and can enter and leave South Korea freely within 90 days. For readers from Taiwan and Hong Kong who frequently travel to South Korea for medical treatments, this means that traveling at short notice has become much easier.
However, there is also some less pleasing news: starting from January 1, 2026, South Korea’s tax rebate policy for medical aesthetics treatments (10% VAT refund) will officially come to an end. Previously, you could get a 200,000 South Korean won tax rebate for a Thermage treatment costing 2 million South Korean won; now, that rebate is no longer available. On the positive side, in recent years, the competition in South Korea’s Dermatology industry has become increasingly fierce. To attract customers, many clinics have adopted the practice of charging similar prices to those in China and ensuring price transparency, resulting in overall costs that are now more manageable than before. After conducting some research, I found that the cost of a full-face Thermage FLX treatment at top-tier clinics in Gangnam ranges from 1.5 to 2 million South Korean won (approximately NT$36,000 to NT$48,000, or HK$9,000 to HK$12,000), which is roughly the same as the price after the tax rebate was in effect last year, or even lower.
In addition, platforms such as BeautsGO and Creatrip now fully support Chinese-language reservations and price inquiries, significantly reducing language barriers. In the past, one would have to rely on Korean friends to help make phone calls for reservations; now, it only takes a few clicks on one’s mobile phone to complete the process.
II. How much money should one bring when going to South Korea for cosmetic surgery? Real budget estimates for 2026 are available.
This is probably the question that everyone planning to travel is most concerned about. Based on the price information I recently compiled, I have listed the actual costs of common Dermatology treatments in Seoul in 2026, so you can get a clear idea:
| Project | Reference price (Korean won) | Agreed on the amount in Taiwanese dollars | Agreed on the amount in Hong Kong dollars |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Glow Injection / Rejuran | Between 1.5 and 2.5 million yen | NT$3,600 to 6,000 | HK$900 to 1,500 |
| Filler injection (1 centum core) | Between 1.5 and 3 million yen | NT$3,600 to 7,200 | HK$900 to 1,800 |
| Botox for facial slimming (whole face) | 80,000 to 150,000 yen | NT$1,900 to 3,600 | HK$480 to 900 |
| Pico laser treatment for the entire face | 100,000 to 200,000 yen | NT$2,400 to 4,800 | HK$600 to 1,200 |
| Potenza (for the entire face) | 300,000 to 500,000 yen | NT$7,200 to 12,000 | HK$1,800 to 3,000 |
| Thermage FLX (600 treatments for the entire face) | 1.5 to 2 million yen | NT$36,000 to 48,000 | HK$9,000 to 12,000 |
| Ulthrea (300 treatments for the entire face) | 900,000 to 1.3 million | NT$21,600 to 31,200 | HK$5,400 to HK$7,800 |
| Titanium Lifting (for the entire face) | Between 2.5 million and 3.3 million yen | NT$60,000 to 79,200 | HK$15,000 to 19,800 |
⚠️ The above are the reference ranges for “same-price in China and Korea” transparent clinics. Some clinics may have slight price variations depending on whether the treatments are performed by the clinic director personally or if imported medical materials are used. For the most accurate prices, it is still recommended to check the real-time quotes of each clinic on BeautsGO. Don’t forget to add the cost of air tickets (about NT$6,000–12,000 / HK$2,000–4,000 for flights from Taiwan or Hong Kong to Seoul) and accommodation (about NT$4,500–9,000 / HK$1,200–2,400 for 3–4 nights). In total, a medium-budget medical beauty trip in Seoul should cost approximately NT$50,000–80,000 / HK$13,000–20,000.
III. How to choose a Dermatology clinic in Seoul? Precise recommendations for the three major areas of Gangnam, Myeongdong, and Hongdae
People who go to South Korea for cosmetic procedures for the first time often ask, “Which area should I go to?” This question is truly important, because the focus and target audience of clinics in different areas vary significantly.
Gangnam District (including Apgujeong, Sinsa-dong, and Yeoksam stations) – The top choice for premium anti-aging treatments
Gangnam is considered the heart of South Korea’s medical aesthetics industry, boasting the highest density of clinics, the most advanced equipment, and clinicians with the greatest expertise. It is an ideal destination for those seeking high-end treatments such as Thermage, HIFU, or Titanium Lifting. Recommended clinics include Barog (with identical prices for Korean and foreign patients in Gangnam), maisondeM (led by Chief Physician Choi Chang-won, renowned for anti-aging treatments), Glovi Jin Tera (rated 4.8/5 on Naver), and SEYE seye (which offers excellent Chinese-speaking services). Although the prices are on the higher side, the quality of equipment and technology is indeed top-notch.
Myeongdong —— friendliness towards tourists and one-stop convenience
The greatest advantages of clinics in Myeongdong are their convenient locations and experienced Chinese-speaking staff, making it ideal for people who want to get treatments while shopping. Many clinics are located in shopping malls, so you can continue your shopping after your treatment. Recommended clinics include Abijou (a 20-year-old established chain), DAN-A (where the director personally attends to patients, with 22 years of experience), and the DayBeau branch in Myeongdong. These clinics are perfect for basic treatments such as hyaluronic acid injections, Pico treatments, and Filler procedures.
Hongdae — the favorite destination among young people, offering great value for money
Hongdae is a popular gathering place for college students and young people. Prices here are generally 20-30% lower than those in Gangnam, and the atmosphere is more relaxed and casual. Recommended clinics include DayBeau Hongdae Branch and Vands Sinsa (a national chain). These options are ideal for those with limited budgets who still want to receive professional skin care.
IV. Comparison of reservation methods: Which one is the most suitable for you – LINE, Gmail, or BeautsGO?
In 2026, there are mainly three ways to make an appointment with a Dermatology clinic in Seoul. I have actually used all of them, so I would like to share their respective advantages and disadvantages:
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | Who it is suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| LINE Consultation | Real-person customer service with fast responses and the ability to communicate in Chinese. | You will have to wait until someone is available during business hours to respond. | For those who visit for the first time and encounter many problems… |
| Gmail emails | You may attach photos and provide detailed descriptions of your requirements. | The response may be delayed by 1 to 2 days. | Those who have specific projects they would like to discuss with experts |
| BeautsGO APP | 24-hour service, real-time pricing, one-click reservation. | Some clinics have not yet listed their services online. | Familiar repeat customers and those who want to quickly compare prices |
I personally use all three methods in combination: first, I use BeautsGO to check prices and read reviews of clinics; if I have any questions, I contact customer service via LINE; finally, I use BeautsGO or LINE to book an appointment directly. This is the most convenient way for me.
The card below allows you to quickly access BeautsGO to view the full price and make an immediate reservation.
V. Jeju Island: A visa-free surprise – you can still enjoy a cosmetic surgery trip without applying for a visa.
If your passport is still being processed for a visa, or if you want to experience medical aesthetics in a different way, Jeju Island is an excellent choice. The visa-free policy is still in effect, and holders of Taiwanese or Hong Kong passports can enter the country and stay for up to 30 days without a visa.
Medical beauty clinics on Jeju Island are mainly concentrated in the urban area of Jeju City (around Nohyeong-dong). Although their scale is smaller than that in Seoul, several well-known clinics have an excellent reputation: 4ever Jeju (Filler prices start from 150,000 Korean won; same prices as in Seoul; comfortable environment), Toxnfill Jeju (a large chain with affordable prices), and NowMedi (open year-round, serving until 10:00 p.m., unique among its competitors).
There is another advantage to undergoing cosmetic procedures on Jeju Island during the summer: after the treatment, you can take the opportunity to visit Hanna Mountain, Udo Island, and the Yaeyue Beach. You can not only improve your appearance but also enjoy a vacation, killing two birds with one stone. Moreover, June to August are the most beautiful seasons on Jeju Island, when hydrangeas and sunflowers are in full bloom, making it perfect for taking stunning photos.
VI. 2026 Summer Medical Aesthetics Itinerary Plan for Lazy People
Finally, I’d like to provide you with a quick reference schedule, available in three versions based on the number of days and budget:
| solution | Number of days | Suitable for the project | Budget (Korean Won) | Recommended Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light and stylish | 3 days and 2 nights | Hydrofiller injections + Pico treatment | 300,000 to 500,000 yen | Hongdae / Myeongdong |
| Classic medical aesthetics | 4 days and 3 nights | Thermage + Filler | Between 1.8 million and 2.5 million yen | Gangnam / Cheongdam-dong |
| Comprehensive transformation | 5 to 7 days | HIFU + injections + skin care | Between 2.5 and 4 million yen | Gangnam + Jizhou |
Pre-departure checklist: ✅ Passport (valid for at least 6 months) ✅ K-ETA (for Taiwanese travelers) / Visa exemption (for Hong Kong travelers) ✅ Download the BeautsGO app ✅ Cash in Korean won (some clinics charge a surcharge when using cards) ✅ Add the clinic’s customer service on LINE ✅ Confirm your flight and accommodation details.
One final reminder: The summer vacation season is the peak period for bookings. For popular clinics in Gangnam – especially highly rated ones like barog, maisondeM, and 4ever Jeju – it is recommended to book at least 2-3 weeks in advance; last-minute requests have a very low chance of being accepted.
VII. Ways to Make Appointments: LINE / Gmail / BeautsGO
Are you ready? Click the button below and book your summer medical beauty treatment today!