When going to South Korea for cosmetic procedures, the biggest concern is undoubtedly dealing with unverified clinics. Especially nowadays, with those chain hospitals in Gangnam, it’s completely impossible to know which doctor will actually perform the treatment. The internet is abuzz about the highly recommended Diore Clinic in South Korea, which claims to “reject the use of assembly-line models and ensures that all treatments are performed by 100% fully licensed specialists.” However, upon checking their reservation page, one is immediately faced with a dilemma: the impressive qualifications of its four chief physicians and the numerous academic titles they hold make it extremely difficult to decide which clinic to choose!
Should we choose Dr. Lee Gwang-ryeok, who graduated from Korea University, for Sofwave treatment, or Dr. Jung Jong-hoon, who graduated from Yonsei University, for Thermage procedures? I’m not kidding here. As a savvy woman with a strong obsession regarding doctors’ educational backgrounds, technical skills, and clinical experience, I’ve spent 2,500 words thoroughly analyzing the key background information, aesthetic styles, and areas of expertise of these four chief physicians. No matter what skin issues you’re trying to address, refer to this “guide to avoiding mistakes when choosing a doctor” to identify the right specialist and head straight for Gangnam in Seoul without running into any problems!
I. The first step in avoiding pitfalls in the Gangnam medical beauty industry: Why must you learn how to “choose the right doctor”?
Before heading to Sinnonhyeon in Seoul, these ladies must first confront a harsh reality: behind South Korea’s highly developed medical aesthetics industry lies a serious problem of “assembly-line manufacturing.” In many chain hospitals that advertise extremely low prices, the person you meet during the consultation may merely be a sales manager (or not even a doctor at all). Once you lie on the operating table with your eyes covered, the doctor performing the procedure might be a freshly graduated individual with no practical experience whatsoever. In even worse cases, you could end up dealing with what is notoriously referred to online as “shadow doctors.”
The reason why Diore Clinic has become so successful in the highly competitive Gangnam business district is its unwavering commitment to a “non-conveyor-line, high-end personalized” approach. All four core directors of the clinic come from top Korean medical institutions such as Korea University and Yonsei University. At Diore Clinic, once you specify a doctor during your appointment, everything—from the one-on-one detailed consultation and skin anatomy assessment before the procedure to the dynamic adjustment of energy levels during the treatment—will be handled exclusively by that specialist doctor.
If you want your money to be well spent and the results to be optimal, the key is to leverage the core expertise of doctors to meet your anti-aging needs. Below, we will take a closer look at the details of these four renowned physicians.
II. Dr. Diolli’s Team: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Backgrounds and Expertise of the Four Chief Physicians
👑 Li Guanglie, President of the Institute —— The “Master of Energy Adjustment” in the field of structural lifting treatments
- Educational Background and Work Experience:
- She graduated from the School of Medicine at Korea University, one of South Korea’s top institutions, and completed rigorous internship programs as well as standardized residency training at the prestigious Korea University Medical Center.
- Before officially establishing Diore Clinic, Lee Kwang-rye had been actively working in South Korea’s top aesthetic medicine industry for many years. He had successively held positions such as department director and clinic director at renowned institutions in Gangnam, including New Star Clinic, SENIA Clinic, Onlyp Plastic Surgery, Cheongdam OK Plastic Surgery, and Purebom Clinic.
- With over 15 years of clinical experience in Dermatology and the use of phototherapy, he has treated countless international patients seeking cosmetic treatments.
- Authoritative academic titles: Core member of the Korean Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Medicine, Official member of the Korean Society of Dermatology/Obesity and Plastic Surgery, Member of the Clinical Dermatology Society, Member of the Korean Obesity Research Association, Member of the Korean Society of Fillers, Member of the Obesity/Aesthetics and Body Shape Society, Official member of the Primary Healthcare Society.
- Core areas of expertise: Sofwave (significantly increases collagen in the dermis), Ulthrea (provides deep SMAS tightening), and Shurink Universe (helps define facial contours).
- In-depth analysis of the personalized approaches and techniques used by experienced doctors during face-to-face consultations:
- Director Li is a typical representative of the “academic-practical” approach in the medical aesthetics industry. His examination method is extremely meticulous, almost resembling that of a university professor conducting a pathological analysis. He places great emphasis on the “structural and anatomical layers” of the facial skin; upon entering the room, he will use professional techniques to examine your facial fat pads and the edges of your bones.
- He doesn’t blindly promote expensive comprehensive treatment packages; instead, he uses simple language to help you understand whether your sagging skin is caused by the displacement of superficial fat pads, resulting in what is commonly referred to as “jowls,” or by the loss of collagen in the dermis, leading to “loose skin.” When performing treatments with the Sofwave and Ulthrea, his skills are truly exceptional.
- If the HIFU or Sofwave is not used properly, it can easily cause facial indentations or burns. During the procedure, Director Li closely monitors the real-time images displayed on the device’s screen and dynamically adjusts the energy output and the number of treatments based on the thickness of the skin and the anatomical features of different areas of the patient’s face.
- He also has extensive experience in pain management; he carefully adjusts the angle to avoid sensitive nerve areas, ensuring high comfort while maximizing the lifting effect on the fascia layer. 👉 Recommended for those with a fuller face shape, blurred jawlines, Double Chin, or who wish to undergo advanced facial anti-aging treatments or targeted anti-sagging procedures – simply choose Dr. Li Guanglie for reliable and consistent results.
💎 Dr. Zheng Zhongxun —— The “Collagen Guardian” of advanced anti-aging treatments
- Educational background and work experience: Graduated from the Wonju School of Medicine at Yonsei University, South Korea, a renowned institution in the field of medical aesthetics.
- Before joining the anti-aging team at Dior Beauty, Dr. Jung Jong-hoon had accumulated extensive practical experience in the Seoul medical aesthetics industry. He had previously served as the director of the Gangnam branch of South Korea’s renowned top-tier private beauty clinic, GU Clinic, and also held the position of director at the well-known ST Plastic Surgery Center and the large-scale chain medical aesthetics institution Muse Clinic (Gangnam Branch). For many years, he has conducted clinical research specifically targeting the delicate skin types of East Asian women, and he possesses profound expertise in the subtle improvements that can be made to skin texture.
- Authoritative academic titles: Official member of the Korean Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Therapy, member of the Korean Society of Fillers, official member of the Korean Obesity Research Association.
- Core areas of expertise: Thermage FLX, the fourth-generation Thermage system for the American market (comprehensive facial tightening and wrinkle reduction), and Potenza, the European and American version of Potenza (precision treatment for acne scars and Pores).
- In-depth analysis of the personalized approaches and techniques used by experienced doctors during face-to-face consultations:
- If President Li Guanglie represents the rigid structural approach in the medical aesthetics industry, then President Zheng Zhongxun is the epitome of the extremely gentle and meticulous “aesthetic customization approach.” During his consultations, President Zheng creates a sense of warmth and comfort; he listens patiently to your concerns regarding your skin type—whether it’s issues like powder application, enlarged Pores, or fine lines around the eyes. His core anti-aging philosophy focuses on “enhancing the density of collagen in the dermis and optimizing the overall quality of the skin.”
- When performing Thermage FLX Generation 4 treatments, his meticulous technique is well-known in the Gangnam area. He strictly follows the manufacturer’s grid system to precisely target areas such as the peak of the Nasolabial Fold Correction, the Marionette Line Correction around the mouth corners, and the delicate areas around the eyes, which are particularly difficult to treat. For these areas, he employs a special overlapping technique, using concentrated radiofrequency heat to activate the damaged dermal layers.
- When using the Potenza Gold Micro-Needles, he carefully adjusts the depth of needle penetration and the timing of radiofrequency delivery. This approach not only effectively Pore tightening and fills in acne scars but also minimizes the thermal damage to the skin’s barrier, resulting in rapid reduction of post-treatment redness.
- 👉 Recommended pick: For those with dry skin, fine lines indicating early signs of aging on the face, or who are suffering from rosacea, oily acne, or enlarged Pores, simply schedule a consultation with Director Zheng Zhongxun – his highly precise treatment methods are sure to impress you.
💉 Dr. Lee Tae-kyung — The “Magic Master of Injection Aesthetics” in Facial Microsurgery
- Educational background and career experience: A highly educated and renowned physician who also graduated from the prestigious Korea University College of Medicine in South Korea.
- What is particularly unique is that Dean Lee Tae-kyung possesses an extremely solid and cross-disciplinary background in the medical field. He was once a key member of the Bio-signals and Telemedicine Team (U-Healthcare) at VUNO, a renowned South Korean AI healthcare technology company. This research experience in the field of high-tech medical big data has enabled him to gain a level of digital precision and understanding of human bioelectric signals and the distribution patterns of facial nerves and muscles that far surpasses that of ordinary doctors.
- Authoritative academic titles: Member of the Korean Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Therapy, Official Member of the Korean Society for Laser Dermatology and Hair Science, Member of the Korean Association of Aesthetic Obesity Treatment, Official Member of the Korean Obesity Research Association.
- Core areas of expertise: fixation of facial contours using Filler, precise dynamic adjustments with botulinum toxin, and creation of a youthful, radiant complexion through advanced hydrotherapy and Collagen treatments.
- In-depth analysis of the personalized approaches and techniques used by experienced doctors during face-to-face consultations:
- Director Lee Tae-kyung’s approach to face consultations is infused with a strong sense of modern technology. He combines data from AI-based skin analysis tools to precisely identify the areas of weakness on your face, just as a mathematician would analyze geometric shapes. He possesses an keen aesthetic sense when it comes to the two key concepts highly desired by East Asian beauty seekers: “fixing the outer contours” and “creating a youthful appearance.”
- Thanks to his expertise in the field of AI bio-signals, Dean Li’s technique when using injections can be described as “fast, precise, and effective.” Whether it’s filling the outer contours with Filler or performing precise Tear trough correction, or using botulinum toxin to slim the face and reduce wrinkles, he is able to accurately target the subcutaneous tissue and deliver the injection precisely to the periosteal layer or specific muscle-fascial layers.
- This level of digital precision effectively prevents the injection from drifting, completely eliminating the risks of “swelling” or a stiff, mask-like appearance after the procedure. The composite hyaluronic acid glow injection formula he developed not only provides deep hydration but also offers excellent anti-inflammatory effects for the skin. 👉 Recommended for those who wish to make minor facial adjustments, stabilize their facial contours with Filler, achieve a youthful and intelligent look, or are afraid of facial sagging after injections – Dr. Lee Tae-kyung is the right choice for you.
🩺 Director Park Sang-hoon —— The “expert in restoring the skin barrier” for problematic skin conditions
- Educational background and work experience: Graduated from the Wonju School of Medicine at Yonsei University, a prestigious institution. Currently serves as the chief physician at Diore Clinic in the field of Dermatology.
- President Park is a seasoned and pragmatic physician who has long been dedicated to clinical practice. Having dealt with the complex skin-related needs of medical tourists from various countries for many years, he has accumulated a vast portfolio of successful cases in areas such as challenging skin management, pigmentation removal, and the restoration of sensitive skin.
- Authoritative academic titles: Member of the South Korea Association of Cosmetic Physicians, Official Member of the Korean Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Therapy, Official Member of the Korean Society of Aesthetic Obesity Treatment.
- Core areas of expertise: Pico Fractional laser treatment, correction of persistent telangiectasia and hormone-induced skin damage, as well as advanced microneedling combined skin management.
- In-depth analysis of the personalized approaches and techniques used by experienced doctors during face-to-face consultations:
- President Park Sang-hyun’s approach to face consultations is very down-to-earth and pragmatic. He strongly opposes the radical practice of blindly applying high-intensity phototherapy in pursuit of immediate results. When dealing with patients who suffer from redness, recurring acne, or skin pigmentation issues, he patiently uses a skin magnifying glass to help identify which layer of the skin barrier has been damaged. When performing laser treatments to remove melanin or reduce visible blood vessels, President Park exercises extreme restraint and precision in controlling the intensity of the lasers.
- He advocates for a “low-energy, multi-layered, multi-band combined treatment” approach. By using Pico laser therapy in segmented sessions, he gently stimulates the reorganization of the basal layer without damaging the epidermis. This helps to effectively remove skin pigmentation and acne scars while also using comprehensive skin management techniques to rebuild the damaged structural framework of the skin.
- Many sisters who developed sensitive skin after undergoing laser treatments in China have managed to restore the thickness and brightness of their skin under his care.
- 👉 Recommended for those with naturally sensitive skin, thin stratum corneum, frequent acne or pigmentation issues, or those who have had unsatisfactory results from previous cosmetic treatments and urgently need to restore their skin’s barrier function – Director Park Sang-hyun is your strongest ally.
III. Official and transparent price list of Diore clinic for 2026: All genuine products are clearly labeled with their prices.
One of the most reassuring aspects of undergoing cosmetic procedures at Diolì is that the prices are clear and transparent, completely free from the “hidden surcharges” that some unscrupulous clinics in Gangnam often impose on foreigners.
However, it is important to remind all sisters here about a major loophole in South Korea’s medical policy in 2026:
⚠️ Warning: Tax refund services for medical treatments in South Ko
rea will be discontinued in 2026:
According to the latest amendments to the Special Tax Incentive Act of the South Korean government (Article 107-3), starting from January 1, 2026, foreign tourists undergoing any cosmetic surgeries, dermatology treatments, or phototherapy procedures at medical institutions in South Korea will no longer be eligible for on-site tax refunds or airport tax refund services!
From n
ow on, anyone who undergoes medical beauty treatments at a Dermatology clinic anywhere in South Korea will no longer be able to claim a tax refund of around 7-8%. When planning your budget, please do not be misled by old guidelines from before 2025 that may still appear online!
Although there is no longer any tax refund, since Diolily focuses on offering direct-to-consumer transparent pricing, the prices of genuine original products are still significantly lower—by more than half—compared to the domestic medical beauty market. Below is the official, transparent pricing list of the popular treatments offered by Diolily in 2026:
✦ 써마지 FLX (美版四代熱瑪吉 600發) ──── 1,090,000 韓元起
✦ 소프웨이브 (Sofwave 索夫波) ───────── 1,200,000 韓元起
✦ 포텐자 (Potenza 歐美黃金微針) ──────── 399,000 韓元起
✦ 울쎄라피 프라임 (Ulthera 美版超聲刀) ──── 450,000 韓元起
✦ 쿨웨이브 (冷微波 Onda 局部減脂) ────── 130,000 韓元起
✦ 슈링크 유니버스 (韓版超塑 300發) ────── 49,000 韓元起
The nurse will open the brand-new original consumables in front of you and actively invite you to scan the code to verify their authenticity. After that, you can even take away the delivery invoice and the discarded probes, ensuring a strong sense of authenticity throughout the process!
IV. The popular directors designated by Dermatology of South Korea – 2 key issues that often confuse people
Q1: Is there any difference between the reservation fees for the vice president and the regular director? How are these fees deducted on-site?
A: There is a difference! Since President Lee Gwang-rye strictly limits the number of appointments and controls the flow of patients every day to ensure in-person consultations are conducted in depth, and to prevent overseas users from canceling their appointments without notice, the official system requires a tiered reservation fee. The designated president must pay a reservation fee of 100,000 Korean won, while other presidents need to pay 50,000 Korean won. Please rest assured that this reservation fee is in no way considered an intermediary fee or handling charge; it can be directly deducted from the amount spent on the same day during checkout. If your plans change, you can request a full refund or cancellation by contacting customer service via WeChat within the officially specified time frame.
Q2: If I have made an appointment with Director Zheng Zhongxun for a Thermage treatment, can I request to add a consultation with Director Lee Tae-kyung for contour definition immediately after the initial examination?
A: If Director Lee Tae-kyung happens to be available on that day, the Chinese-speaking manager on-site will do their best to assist you with the coordination. However, since the appointments for these two highly popular directors usually fill up several weeks in advance, we strongly recommend that you specify all the treatments you wish to undergo and the doctors you prefer at the time of making your online reservation via WeChat. This will prevent any disappointment due to unavailable doctors on-site!
V. The official Chinese direct reservation channel for Dermatology in South Korea in 2026 (intermediaries are not allowed to charge a commission)
To ensure that every patient receives in-depth consultations, as well as high-quality AI-based skin aesthetic treatments and procedures, Diore Clinic strictly implements a “limited reservation system” and does not accept walk-in patients. For those who wish to schedule consultations with their preferred clinic director, we strongly recommend booking your spot 2 to 4 weeks in advance through the official dedicated channels.
📱 Channel 1 | One-on-one WeChat communication (consultative, customized service)
Overseas patients seeking cosmetic treatments can simply search for and add the official overseas dedicated service channel on WeChat.
- The only officially recognized WeChat account: s-sourire
After adding the official ANEW dedicated window, you can directly communicate with the Chinese customer service. Our frontline consultants will assist you in scheduling appointments with your preferred doctors before your trip, providing detailed information about the procedures and helping you confirm the budget. You can also use this channel at any time to request the latest high-definition price list in Chinese.
📲 Channel 2 | BeautsGO: Beauty for All (Smart Mini-program for Self-service Appointments)
- Reservation method: Search for and enter the “BeautsGO” mini-program directly on WeChat.
- Operation guide: Enter “Diori” or “The Dermatology Clinic with the Highest Ratings” in the search bar on the home page of the mini-program to directly access the official, dedicated Chinese-language reservation page. Here, you can freely select the desired doctor’s schedule and treatment options, with all prices clearly listed. No commission will be charged by any agents or intermediaries!
📍 Hospital location guide: 9th floor, Mangeum Building, 428 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Exit 6 of Subway Line 9/New Bundang Line [Sinnonhyeon Station]; after exiting, take the escalators and walk straight ahead for about 5 minutes. You will immediately reach the 9th floor of Mangeum Building. Note: Traffic on Gangnam-daero is extremely congested during rush hours. It is recommended to take the subway when going for in-person consultations. If you are too late, your appointment with the director may be automatically cancelled by the system!)
All content on this website adheres to the principle of providing accurate information and helping users avoid common pitfalls in the medical beauty industry. For more details, please refer to the “About This Website” section.
