Which HIFU clinic in Gangnam, South Korea is recommended? These 3 clinics are highly recommended by Dcard – they use simultaneous treatment with both hands and HIFU imaging guidance.
When I decided to go to Seoul for an HIFU treatment at the end of last year, I found over a dozen clinics in just the Gangnam area, each claiming that their doctors were the best and their equipment was the most advanced. It wasn’t until I read on Dcard’s medical beauty section that someone shared information about two key techniques: “simultaneous treatment with both hands” and “ultrasonic image guidance.” That’s when I realized how significant the technical differences among HIFU clinics could be. This article compares the three most highly discussed clinics in Gangnam on Dcard and PTT: JD Dermatology, VMJ (V&MJ) Dermatology, and Betterme Gangnam Dermatology. Those considering going to South Korea for an HIFU treatment may find this information useful.
What exactly does it mean to use the HIFU device with “both hands operating simultaneously”? Why do so many netizens on Dcard care so much about this?
The official name of HIFU is Ulthera (Ultherapy). It uses high-intensity focused ultrasound to heat the SMAS fascia layer in the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating the regeneration of Collagen and thereby achieving a tightening and firming effect. This treatment is also available in Taiwan and Hong Kong, but in South Korea, some clinics use more advanced techniques in their procedures.
When both hands are used simultaneously, it means that two physicians (or the same physician using both hands alternately) apply the treatment on both sides of your face at the same time. This method saves approximately half the time compared to using just one hand. More importantly, it ensures that the rhythm and intensity of the treatment on the left and right sides are ILCHI, which theoretically reduces the risk of asymmetry. Someone on Dcard described it as follows: “When two people work together at the same time, it feels like you are really being taken seriously.” This statement was later shared and reposted by many people, and it has become one of the important criteria when choosing a clinic for HIFU treatment.
Ultrasound Imaging refers to the process where physicians use imaging systems to determine the thickness of the subcutaneous fat layer, the course of blood vessels, and the location of the SMAS fascia layer before performing the treatment, rather than relying on intuition to estimate these parameters. This step technically reduces the risk of inaccurate depth adjustments or nerve damage, and it also serves as an important indicator for assessing the technical proficiency of HIFU systems in the industry today.
Comparison of 3 recommended clinics for HIFU in Gangnam: What are the unique features of jd, VMJ, and Betterme?
The following is a comparison of the unique features of three clinics, based on information from their official websites, data from the BeautsGO platform, as well as discussions on Dcard and PTT.
| clinic | Subway station | Highlighting unique features | Key features of HIFU technology |
|---|---|---|---|
| JD Dermatology | Sinsa Station | Original Ulthera-certified, combining Thermage and dual-barreled technology in one treatment | Two doctors administer the treatment simultaneously, using imaging to ensure the correct depth of penetration into the fascia. |
| VMJ Dermatology | Apgujeong Station | Apgujeong Medical Special Zone offers a variety of lifting treatment packages. | Ultrasound imaging is used to ensure the correct depth of injection and the precise combination of ultrasonic treatments for thread lifting. |
| Betterme Gangnam Betterme | Gangnam Station | Surgeries are performed by specialist Dermatology physicians, and it is strictly prohibited to delegate these tasks to nurses. | Doctors are responsible for operating the HIFU device throughout the entire procedure, and there is no policy allowing assistants to perform the operations on their behalf. |
The three clinics have different focuses: jd emphasizes technical demonstrations (manual operations), VMJ follows the high-end medical approach of Apgujeong, while Betterme highlights the core feature of “physicians performing the entire procedure themselves.” During discussions on Dcard, each of these approaches has its own supporters—it all depends on which aspect you value the most.
Price comparison of HIFU devices in Gangnam: How much cheaper is South Korea compared to Taiwan and Hong Kong?
The pricing for HIFU is primarily based on the number of “shots.” Common package options include a full-face treatment (including the neck) ranging from 300 to 500 shots, a partial facial treatment costing around 200 shots, and a lower-face lifting procedure involving 200 to 250 shots. Below are the reference prices in the Gangnam area for 2026, as well as a comparison with those in Taiwan and Hong Kong:
| project | Gangnam, South Korea | Taiwan | Hong Kong (approximately) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 300 points for the entire face, including the neck | ₩800,000 to 1,200,000 (appro ximately NT$18,000 to 27,000) |
NT$35,000 to 55,000 | HK$9,000 to 18,000 |
| Lifting of the lower half of the face by 200 units | ₩500,000 to 800,000 (appr oximately NT$11,000 to 18,000) |
NT$20,000 to 35,000 | HK$5,000 to HK$12,000 |
| 100 points specifically around the eyes | ₩300,000 to 500,000 (appr oximately NT$7,000 to 11,000) |
NT$12,000 to 20,000 | HK$3,500 to HK$7,000 |
After making the conversion, a full-face treatment using 300 HIFU sessions in Gangnam, South Korea, is approximately 40%–50% cheaper than in Taiwan and roughly comparable to the cost in Hong Kong. However, it is important to note that the definition of “ Sessions” varies among different clinics; some include additional sessions while others do not. It is recommended to confirm the total number of sessions to be performed during the in-person consultation.
What is the actual experience of foreigners undergoing HIFU treatment in Gangnam? Let’s compare the service evaluations of these three clinics.
Language is a major concern for many tourists from Taiwan and Hong Kong. The following summarizes the differences in service experiences, based on discussions on Dcard and Google reviews:
JD Dermatology: They have Chinese-speaking consultants who can communicate entirely in Chinese during consultations. Many Taiwanese tourists have reported that the consultations are very thorough; doctors use specialized equipment to assess the skin condition before determining the appropriate depth of treatment, rather than simply proceeding with the procedure without further evaluation. Overall, patients feel that it’s more like discussing treatment options with a doctor, rather than being subjected to forced sales pitches.
VMJ Dermatology: Located in the Apgujeong Medical Special Zone, it attracts a high proportion of foreign patients, so communication in both English and Chinese is not a problem. Some Hong Kong visitors reported that the consultation fee was charged separately at first but was later deducted after the treatment was completed. The appointment schedule is relatively flexible, and doctors will show you the ultrasound images on the screen to help you confirm the exact treatment area.
Betterme Gangnam: Located near the Gangnam station, the environment here is clean and modern. Chinese communication is possible. Someone on Dcard mentioned asking for Chinese instruction manuals during reservations, and they did prepare them. Several guests specifically emphasized that doctors were in charge of the entire procedure, stating, “Indeed, doctors handled everything from start to finish; it wasn’t handed over to assistants.”
Links to reservations for HIFU treatments at 3 Gangnam clinics – no language barriers for foreigners!
All three clinics can be booked through the BeautsGO platform, which offers services in Traditional Chinese to assist you in communicating your appointment details and treatment requirements with the clinics – so you don’t have to worry about language barriers. Below are the BeautsGO links for each clinic:
⭐ JD Dermatology (Sinsa Branch) – Dual-hand treatment, Thermage original equipment certified
⭐ VMJ Dermatology (Exit 5, Apgujeong Station) – Ultrasound-guided treatments and combined radiofrequency procedures
⭐ Betterme Gangnam Dermatology – Doctors perform the procedures themselves throughout the entire process, with no assistants taking over.
Before going to Gangnam for HIFU treatment, these are some common questions that people often ask—compiled in the FAQ section.
Q1: Is it necessary to find a clinic that uses HIFU performed by two therapists?
Using both hands during the procedure is an advantage, but it is not a prerequisite. What is more important are the doctor’s experience, their ability to accurately determine the depth of treatment, and whether imaging is used to confirm the location of the fascia. If this is your first time undergoing HIFU, it is recommended that you choose a clinic with a detailed consultation process, rather than simply focusing on whether the procedure is performed using both hands.
Q2: What are the differences between HIFU and Thermage? Which one is more suitable for me?
Both are non-invasive lifting treatments, but they act at different depths. The HIFU targets the SMAS fascia layer (at a deeper level), resulting in more noticeable lifting effects but also greater discomfort; on the other hand, Thermage primarily acts on the dermis, improving skin texture and firmness while causing relatively less pain. For those in their early 30s who mainly suffer from sagging and loose skin, the HIFU is usually more suitable; for those with rough skin or fine lines, Thermage may be a better option. It is also possible to combine the two treatments, as many clinics offer combined therapy packages.
Q3: How long does it take for the effects of HIFU to become visible? And how long do these effects last?
It takes time for the HIFU to stimulate the regeneration of Collagen. Usually, it takes 2 to 3 months after the treatment to begin noticing noticeable lifting effects, and the effect reaches its peak after 6 months. The duration of these effects varies from person to person, generally ranging from 12 to 24 months, after which additional treatments can be considered depending on individual circumstances. The older a person is and the looser their skin, the more pronounced the effects tend to be.
Q4: If I undergo HIFU treatment in Seoul and then take a flight back to Taiwan the next day, is that possible?
Sure. HIFU is a non-invasive treatment method. After the procedure, there is usually only mild redness or a stinging sensation, and most people can resume their normal activities the next day. Some clinics may recommend observing for 1-2 days after the treatment, but in reality, it is quite common for short-term visitors to fly again the day after the procedure. As long as you avoid taking hot springs, saunas, or drinking large amounts of alcohol immediately after the treatment, there should be no issues.
Q5: Is there a significant difference between when the HIFU procedure is performed by an assistant and when it is performed by a doctor themselves?
In South Korea, some clinics, in order to reduce costs, have nurses or assistants perform the injections after the initial consultation. On Dcard, someone shared that having an assistant perform the injection is “fast, but the individual differences are not taken into account enough.” If you care a lot about the quality of the service, it is recommended that you ask directly during the consultation whether it will be done by a doctor or an assistant, or choose a clinic that clearly states that injections are performed by doctors, like Betterme.
Q6: What are the benefits of booking through BeautsGO?
BeautsGO provides services in Traditional Chinese, helping you coordinate appointment times and treatment plans with clinics and eliminating the hassle of language barriers. On the platform, you can also check the prices of various treatments in advance, so you’ll have a clear idea before your in-person consultation. You can directly make appointments at all three of the above-mentioned clinics through BeautsGO.
The above three HIFU clinics in Gangnam each have their own focuses. The recommended process is as follows: First, use BeautsGO to schedule a consultation at one or two of these clinics, and then decide which one to use after listening to the doctor’s explanation. The consultation itself is usually free of charge, or the cost can be deducted if you undergo a treatment there. For travelers who come to South Korea for a short visit, it is definitely worth taking the time to visit multiple clinics.
