Korea's Medical Tourism Soars, Delivering Billion-Dollar Economic Impact

Korea's medical tourism sector achieved a record year, attracting 1.17 million international patients—the highest since its 2009 inception. This influx generated 3.66 trillion won ($2.47 billion) for the Korean economy, with medical services accounting for 1.4 trillion won (38.3%) as reported by The Korea Health Industry Development Institute, indicating significant cross-border healthcare spending. The appeal is evident for Natsagdorj Namuun, a 30-year-old model from Mongolia, who chose Seoul for cosmetic enhancements. She told The Korea Times, "I had rhinoplasty and breast surgery in Seoul in 2022. I can’t give an exact figure, but I spent at least several million won on the procedures. Five or six of my friends also came to Korea for cosmetic surgery."

Key Trends & Outlook

Dermatology and plastic surgery were primary drivers, totaling 944.9 billion won (25.8%) of medical expenditures. Japan sent the most patients (282,000), while the United States led in overall spending (over 1 trillion won) and medical spending (307 billion won). Seoul dominated medical spending at 1.2 trillion won (87.6%), followed by Gyeonggi Province and Busan. Dermatology serves as an accessible entry point, fostering demand for further services. Countries like Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and the United States show strong potential for advanced treatments and integrated care.

To ensure sustained growth, Choi Soon-woo, chief surgeon at View Plastic Surgery Clinic, emphasized, "Today’s popularity could vanish like a mirage. For it to last, the medical community and government authorities must work together with genuine commitment." Patient satisfaction remains paramount for long-term success in this competitive global health tourism market.

Read the full article here: https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/society/20251221/record-influx-of-medical-tourists-delivers-247-bil-economic-windfall-for-korea