After comparing several Dermatology clinics in Myeongdong, I saved the reservation link for Beauty Dermatology to my phone.
When I first flew to Seoul for medical beauty treatments, I didn’t head straight for Gangnam but started my search from Myeongdong where I was staying. A friend told me that Dermatology clinics in Myeongdong were much cheaper than those in Gangnam, and since I didn’t have to change trains, I carefully researched several options before finally adding the Beauty Dermatology Clinic (아름다운나라피부과의원 명동점) to my list of favorites. This article summarizes the process of my research and consultations, providing information for anyone who is also considering skin care treatments in Myeongdong.
Entering Dermatology Beauty in Myeongdong, I found that this clinic was somewhat different from what I had imagined.
The full name of Beauty Dermatology is “Areumdaun Nara Dermatology Clinic, Myeongdong Branch”. It opened its doors in 2000 and has been operating in Myeongdong for over 25 years. The clinic is located on the 4th to 6th floors of 125 Toegye-ro; it is only about a 5-minute walk from Myeongdong Station. You can find the signboard by heading to Chungmu-ro 1-ga.
Upon entering, the first thing that strikes you is the much larger space than expected — it consists of three floors: the first floor is for consultations, the second floor houses laser treatment rooms and equipment for therapeutic procedures, and the third floor is dedicated to surgeries and advanced treatments. The clinic is primarily staffed by Dermatology specialists, rather than beauticians or nurses as in typical clinics. During the consultation process, it is the doctors themselves who explain the patient’s skin condition and recommend appropriate treatment plans.
The clinic provides Chinese-language consultation services, and its official website also offers versions in Chinese and Japanese, indicating that its main customer base consists of foreign visitors. Phone appointments can be made in English or Chinese, and there is also a customer service channel on LINE (the official LINE account can be found on the website).
Summary of the main treatment costs at Beauty Dermatology in 2026: How does it compare with those in Taiwan?
The main services provided by this clinic include basic skin care, laser treatment for freckles and acne removal, Pores improvement, as well as fillers and injections. Below are the approximate cost ranges I learned about (based on market trends in 2026; for accurate prices, please consult on-site):
| Treatment options | Beauty Dermatology (₩) | Taiwan (NT$) | Hong Kong (HK$) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gentle Bubble Facial Cleansing | ₩50,000 to 80,000 | NT$1,500–2,500 | HK$500–900 |
| Q-switched laser for freckle reduction (whole face) | ₩150,000 to ₩300,000 | NT$5,000 to 10,000 | HK$2,000 to HK$4,000 |
| Pico laser treatment for the entire face | ₩300,000 to 600,000 | NT$10,000 to 20,000 | HK$3,500 to HK$7,000 |
| Juvelook Glow Injection (for the entire face) | ₩88,000 to 150,000 | NT$3,000–6,000 | HK$1,200 to 2,500 |
| Botulinum toxin (Masseter) | ₩100,000 to 200,000 | NT$4,000–8,000 | HK$1,500 to HK$3,500 |
| PDRN Salmon Needle (for the entire face) | ₩100,000 to 180,000 | NT$3,500–6,500 | HK$1,200 to HK$2,500 |
Taking laser freckle removal as an example, the cost of a single Q-switched laser treatment in Taiwan ranges from NT$5,000 to NT$8,000, while at Beauty Dermatology, it is approximately ⩺915,000 to ⩺250,000 – which is about NT$3,500 to NT$6,000 when converted, representing a savings of 20% to 40%. The difference becomes even more significant when considering Pico treatments: in Taiwan, the cost is usually over NT$10,000, while in South Korea, it ranges from ⩺930,000 to ⩺500,000, equivalent to approximately NT$7,000 to NT$11,500 after conversion.
Myeongdong vs Gangnam: These were the factors I considered before choosing a clinic.
Many people who go to Seoul for cosmetic procedures head straight for Gangnam, but since I live in Myeongdong, I took the time to carefully compare the differences between the two areas. Here are some key points:
- Transportation: The clinic is located right next to Myeongdong, so there’s no need to spend 30 minutes traveling to Gangnam just to find your way there. Moreover, if your face becomes red and swollen after the procedure, it’s very convenient to be able to return to the hotel quickly – this is especially important for foreigners.
- Prices: Overall, treatments in Myeongdong are 10–20% cheaper than those in Gangnam, especially for basic skincare procedures. The high rental costs in Gangnam are inevitably passed on to customers.
- Equipment: The facilities in the mid-range clinics in Myeongdong are no less advanced than those in Gangnam – treatments such as Q-switched lasers, Pico treatments, HIFU, and Potenza are all available. However, top-of-the-line equipment (such as the latest Ultherapy Prime and Thermage FLX) is still more commonly found in Gangnam.
- Foreign language services: Both areas offer Chinese-language services, but since Myeongdong is originally a tourist district, its staff have more experience in dealing with foreign visitors, making communication much smoother.
My conclusion is as follows: If your travel itinerary is primarily centered around Myeongdong and you want to undergo basic skin care treatments, laser freckle removal, or hyaluronic acid injections, a clinic in Myeongdong will be sufficient, and there is no need to specifically go to Gangnam. However, if your goal is to receive treatments such as Thermage FLX or the advanced version of HIFU, it would be worthwhile to seek out top-tier clinics in Gangnam.
Instructions for the consultation process at Beauty Dermatology for foreigners
The first time I went, I didn’t know what to bring. It was only later that I realized that a passport was all that was needed (foreign medical insurance is not applicable, so everything has to be paid out of pocket). The basic process is as follows:
- Reservation: You can make a reservation online via LINE, phone (02-755-2105), or the official website. Both Chinese and English are accepted. It is recommended to reserve 1–2 days in advance, especially during the peak season.
- Upon arrival for registration: Please present your passport and fill out a brief questionnaire regarding your skin condition (available in Chinese).
- Doctor Consultation: The doctor will examine your skin in person and recommend the most suitable treatment plan and budget. The entire process takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- Procedure: Laser freckle removal for the entire face usually takes 20–40 minutes; hyaluronic acid injections combined with topical anesthetic require approximately 1 hour in total.
- Postoperative instructions: The nurse explained what precautions to take after returning home (avoiding light and keeping the area moist), and provided a postoperative care kit.
- Payment: You can pay in cash or by card. For purchases totaling ¥150,000 or more, you are eligible to apply for a medical tax refund; don’t forget to ask the front desk about this.
On that day, I underwent Q-switched laser freckle removal treatment on my entire face, which cost ₩200,000. The whole process, from entering the clinic to leaving, took approximately 1.5 hours, including waiting times. After the treatment, my face was slightly red, so I went back to the hotel and applied a facial mask; by afternoon, the redness had subsided.
If your itinerary includes a visit to Hongdae, you might also want to consider this place.
In addition to Myeongdong, if your itinerary includes the Hongdae area, you will also find a wide range of Dermatology options in that region. For example, Kate Dermatology in Hongdae offers a premium service experience, with the director personally providing consultations and treatments. Treatments such as the Juvelook Blue Bottle procedure cost ₩888,000, while the Potenza facial treatment costs ₩1,998,000 – making them ideal choices for travelers looking for cost-effective clinics in the Hongdae area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Beauty Dermatology clinic in Myeongdong? How can I get there?
Address: 4th to 6th floors, 125 Toegye-ro, Jung, Seoul (Arimdaun Nara Dermatology Clinic, Myeongdong Branch). It is approximately 5 minutes walk from Myeongdong Station on Line 4 of the subway, or 8 minutes walk from Eupji-ro Entrance Station on Line 2.
Does Beauty Dermatology offer Chinese-language services?
Yes. The official website offers Chinese-language services, and the staff at the clinic are capable of communicating in Chinese. During consultations, you can also request Chinese translation assistance if needed.
Do foreigners need to make an appointment before visiting a Beauty Dermatology clinic?
It is recommended to make reservations in advance. During peak seasons (summer vacation and the end of the year), it is advisable to book 1–3 days in advance via LINE or phone to avoid waiting on-site.
How long after a laser treatment can I wear makeup at Beautiful Country Dermatology?
It is generally recommended to avoid wearing makeup within 48 hours after laser freckle removal treatment; simply apply proper sun protection and moisturizer. After Pico treatment, it may be necessary to refrain from using colored makeup for 3 to 5 days, depending on the specific instructions given by your doctor.
Which is better, Myeongdong Dermatology or Gangnam Dermatology?
It depends on the specific treatment requirements. Basic skin care treatments, laser freckle removal, and hyaluronic acid injections can all be done in Myeongdong, and the costs are even 10–20% lower than those in Gangnam. For advanced treatments such as Thermage FLX and high-end versions of HIFU, it is recommended to go to top-tier clinics in Gangnam.
Can I get a tax refund for visiting a Dermatology clinic in South Korea?
Sure! Customers who spend a minimum of ¥150,000 at designated medical institutions can apply for a tax refund on medical expenses, with the refund amount ranging from 10% to 30%. The application must be submitted in person at the clinic, and a valid passport is required.
How long does the effect of laser freckle removal at Beauty Dermatology last?
It is generally recommended to undergo 3 to 5 treatment sessions with Q-switched laser for freckle reduction, with each session spaced 4 weeks apart. The effects can last for 6 to 12 months or longer. Regular sun protection is crucial for maintaining these results.
What should you pay attention to before visiting a Beauty Dermatology clinic?
Avoid sun exposure before the procedure. It is recommended not to use exfoliating products or retinol-based skincare products 3 days prior to the laser treatment. If you decide to go without makeup on the day of the procedure, it is advisable to allow at least 2 hours for the skin to adjust. After the treatment, prepare a Filler mask and mineral water spray for use afterwards.
