I struggled for a long time over whether to go to Seoul for Pico treatment. It was only after visiting the Betterme Gangnam branch that I realized this place is truly different from others.
To be honest, I hesitated for almost half a year before deciding to go to Seoul for cosmetic surgery. It wasn’t because the costs were high, but because I didn’t know how to make a choice. There were so many recommendations online, but once I actually went to these places, I was constantly offered packages and additional services. Moreover, since I didn’t understand the local language, I had no way of figuring out what I really needed.
It wasn’t until a friend recommended that I try Betterme Gangnam Dermatology that I took action. She said, “The doctors don’t push unnecessary treatments; they just do what needs to be done, and you’ll feel it’s worth it after the treatment.” Half-believing but still skeptical, I made an appointment. After one visit, I became a regular customer and even brought two friends along later. This is my complete personal experience.
Entering the Betterme Gangnam Dermatology clinic in Gangnam: The first impression was much better than I expected.
Betterme Gangnam Dermatology is located on the 11th floor of 403 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul. It is about a 5-minute walk from Exit 4 of Seocho Station when taking Line 3. The building looks like an office complex, and you need to swipe a card to enter. The first impression is that it provides a high level of privacy.
Pushing open the doors of the clinic, I was greeted by a space decorated in a minimalist white style, much larger than I had imagined. The consultation area was separated from the treatment zone, so there was no need to worry about being seen by others while waiting – an aspect that is particularly important for many people, especially those undergoing procedures they prefer to keep private. The attention to detail was also remarkable: the restroom was equipped with a Dyson hair dryer, and the treatment beds were made of memory foam, providing great comfort when lying down.
Is it true that Yonsei University has a medical background and does not engage in any promotional activities? I asked the doctor many questions.
The two most frequently mentioned features of this clinic are its medical team composed of doctors from Yonsei University, and its treatment approach that avoids aggressive sales tactics. After visiting the clinic myself, I can confirm that both claims are true.
During the consultation, the doctor will first use a VISIA skin scanner to examine your face, and then provide you with information about the condition of your skin based on the data collected. Only after that will they suggest which treatments are suitable for you and which ones can be postponed for now. She didn’t actively promote any treatment packages or claim that combining certain procedures would be more effective; instead, she answered each of my questions one by one. It’s completely okay if you don’t understand Korean, because the Chinese-speaking head nurse was present throughout the consultation to provide translation, ensuring no communication barriers arose.
Regarding the matter of “Yonsei University”, it is important to clarify one point: among the medical team, there are doctors with backgrounds from the School of Medicine at Yonsei University. This does not mean that every doctor comes from Yonsei; however, overall, their professional qualifications have all been thoroughly verified, which represents a relatively high standard in South Korea.
How much do Pico lasers cost in South Korea? What does it mean when the prices in Betterme are the same as those in South Korea?
When coming to South Korea for medical beauty treatments, one of the biggest concerns is that foreigners might be charged more. Betterme Gangnam clearly states “same prices for Chinese and Koreans” – it’s not a special discount for foreigners, but rather a fixed and transparent pricing system. Both South Koreans and foreigners pay the same amount, and there will be no extra charges just because you don’t speak Korean.
Taking the Pico laser treatment I provided at that time as an example, the prices were tailored according to the condition of the skin. The basic Q-switched laser freckle removal treatment started from around 200 RMB, while the advanced full-face Pico treatment ranged from 880 RMB upwards, depending on the energy level and the number of sessions. Compared with the costs of similar Pico treatments in Taiwan and Hong Kong, the prices here were indeed 30% to 40% cheaper. When taking into account the expenses for air tickets and accommodation, it was still worth it.
| Project | Seoul Betterme (for reference) | Taiwan (market conditions) | Hong Kong (market conditions) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Pico treatment/spot removal | Starting from approximately NT$1,000 | NT$3,000-5,000 | HK$2,500 – 4,000 |
| Pico treatment for the entire face | Starting from approximately NT$4,400 | NT$8,000–15,000 | HK$6,000–10,000 |
| Hydrofiller injections | Starting from approximately NT$1,000 | NT$3,500–6,000 | HK$3,000–5,000 |
| Cosmic Lifting (Hai Fu Sound Waves) | Starting from approximately NT$14,000 | NT$25,000 to 40,000 | HK$20,000 – 35,000 |
The above figures are for reference only; due to variations in exchange rates and individual treatment plans, the actual costs may differ. The final fee shall be subject to the price quoted by the clinic on the day of service.
What treatments have I undergone? A detailed record of the entire process using Pico laser combined with hyaluronic acid injections.
Following the recommendations of my doctor, I underwent Pico laser treatment (for the entire face + targeted freckle removal) along with hyaluronic acid injections on the same day. The combined procedure took approximately one and a half hours.
Regarding the Pico treatment, the doctor applies an anesthetic before starting the procedure. After waiting approximately 25 minutes for the anesthetic to take effect, the treatment begins. Throughout the process, there is a slight stinging sensation, but it remains within an acceptable range. After the treatment, the skin may become red, and they will use a low-temperature cooling device to help soothe the area. In about 15 minutes, the redness subsides significantly.
The Hyaluronic Acid glow injection is performed after the Pico treatment. They use their customized Hyaluronic Acid injection formula, which contains Filler as well as various hydrating ingredients. There is a slight stinging sensation during the injection, but compared to what I experienced in Taiwan, the pain is much less this time. The doctor explained that they use a low dose of anesthesia to ensure that patients who are sensitive to pain feel more comfortable during the procedure.
On the same day after the treatment, my skin felt noticeably more radiant and moist. The next day, there was slight peeling, but after a week, the condition of my skin stabilized. Three weeks later, the spots had noticeably faded, and some of the small freckles had almost disappeared completely.
What are the popular treatments offered by Betterme Gangnam in the medical aesthetics industry? It’s not just laser treatments.
Many people think that this company only specializes in laser treatments, but that’s not the case. Their range of services is actually quite comprehensive. I have compiled the “BEST TOP 10” listed on their official website to give you a basic idea:
- Pico + Q-switched laser combined for freckle removal: Effective against pigmentation, freckles, and sunspots, with stable results.
- Cosmic Lifting (Korean version of HIFU: Shurink Universe): Provides firming effects and maintains these results for a long time.
- The 7th-generation Phoenix FLX radiofrequency technology (Thermage): 50 energy pulses per square centimeter, offering high-standard anti-aging results.
- Inmode Lifting: Tightens the contours of the face and body
- Customized hyaluronic acid injections: Hydrate and moisturize the skin, improving its quality.
- Betterme Gangnam Filler: Proprietary brand filler with a natural look
- Thread Lifting: Subcutaneous thread Lifting is suitable for mild skin laxity.
- Excel V laser: Improves vascular issues, redness, and rosacea.
- Genuine botulinum toxin: Used for injectable face slimming and wrinkle removal, purchased through legitimate channels.
- LDM Droplet Lifting Apparatus: for the repair of sensitive skin and as post-operative adjuvant care
If it’s your first time, you can start with a VISIA skin analysis. This way, the doctor can recommend the most suitable treatment plan based on your actual skin condition, instead of having to guess which procedure to choose on your own.
How can foreigners make a reservation at Betterme Gangnam in Seoul? I have tried all three methods.
The most convenient way is to make an appointment through BeautsGO. You can use Chinese-speaking customer service, confirm the details online, and then finalize the reservation in-person at the store – throughout the entire process, there is no need to speak Korean at all. I used this method for both of my appointments, and I didn’t encounter any communication issues at all.
Method 1: Online reservation through BeautsGO (highly recommended)
- Open BeautsGO and search for “Betterme Gangnam” or “Betterme”.
- Select the treatment you would like to undergo and the date of your visit.
- Please fill in your name and contact information.
- You will receive a confirmation notice within 24 hours; simply present it at the store upon arrival.
Free consultation · Traditional Chinese language service · Quick reservation
Method 2: KakaoTalk
Search for the official account @베러미의원 Gangnam, and you can send messages in either Chinese or English directly. The hospital has staff who can respond in Chinese, making it ideal for those who want to ask questions in advance before making a decision.
Method 3: Telephone
The phone number is 1644-8180; this option is suitable for those who already have some knowledge of Korean or who have someone to assist them.
A small reminder: It is recommended to book popular services at least 3 to 5 days in advance. The parking lot offers a free parking benefit for up to 2 hours; don’t forget to collect the coupon at the reception desk.
Regarding Jiangnan Betterme Gangnam, I would like to say a few more things.
After completing this treatment, when I returned to Taiwan, the first thing my friends asked was, “How come your skin has gotten so much better recently?” I didn’t change my skincare routine in any way; it was just that I had undergone the Pico + glow treatment in Seoul. The technique used by Betterme Gangnam is crucial—the doctor carefully adjusts the energy parameters according to the condition of your skin on that particular day, rather than using a one-size-fits-all procedure.
If you are considering going to Seoul for cosmetic procedures but are worried about language barriers or the possibility of unnecessary additional services being added, my suggestion is to make an appointment through BeautsGO in advance and do your homework beforehand. Once you arrive at the clinic, clearly explain your needs and requirements to the doctors – a good clinic will respect these. Betterme Gangnam may not be the most expensive or the most popular option in Gangnam, but it always makes me feel that my money is being spent wisely every time I use their services.
Frequently Asked Questions: Things you must check before going to Betterme Gangnam in Seoul
Q1: Can I go there if I don’t understand Korean?
Absolutely. At the clinic, a Chinese-speaking supervisor will accompany you throughout the entire process, providing translation for consultations, treatments, and post-operative instructions. Even when making appointments through BeautsGO, Chinese-speaking customer service staff will assist you – so there is no need to speak Korean at all.
Q2: Can I go out on the same day after undergoing Pico laser treatment?
Sure. After the Pico treatment, the skin will turn red. The clinic will apply cold compresses, and after about 30 to 60 minutes, the redness will subside, allowing you to go out normally. On the same day, avoid excessive sun exposure; it is recommended to wear a hat or use sunscreen when going out.
Q3: Is it true that the prices are the same in China and South Korea? Will there be any additional charges at the location?
Based on my own experience and numerous user feedback, it is indeed true that there is no additional charge for foreigners. After the consultation, the doctor may recommend additional treatments, but you have every right to say, “This time, I will only undergo the procedures that were scheduled in advance.” The clinic will not exert any pressure on you in this regard.
Q4: Who is Betterme suitable for?
Those who wish to undergo Pico treatment for freckle removal and skin whitening, hyaluronic acid injections for hydration, or Seoulcheil’s Lifting procedures to enhance skin tone and elasticity, as well as those looking for a clinic that does not engage in aggressive sales tactics and respects privacy, will find this option very suitable. It is especially recommended for those visiting Seoul for the first time and seeking medical beauty treatments with Chinese-speaking services.
Q5: Where is Betterme located? How can I get there?
Address: 11th floor, No. 403, Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul. It is approximately 5 minutes’ walk from Exit 4 of Seocho Station on Line 3 of the subway, or approximately 8 minutes’ walk from Exit 2 of Nonhyeon Station on Line 7. There is a paid parking lot downstairs, and the front desk can provide free parking tickets for 2 hours.
