Recently, both dcard and PTT have been discussing the topic of “avoiding pitfalls in South Korea’s medical beauty industry.” I have compiled the latest blacklist and redlist for 2026; these are purely based on user reviews and do not include any professional recommendations.
📊 Quick comparison of Seoul clinics
👨⚕️ April Skin Clinic (Director Choi Na-young)
Key features: Moisturizing glow effect and acne scar repair
Hydrating Glow Injection: Reference price: 130,000 Korean won (approximately NT$3,510)
The waiting area is quiet, and the staff at the front desk speak Chinese fluently; there is no sales pressure throughout the entire process.
- ✅ Emphasize a natural look and avoid excessive treatments
- ⚠️ Minor drawback: It is recommended to book 6 days in advance during peak periods; walk-ins are not accepted.
👨⚕️ DAN-A Dermatology (Led by Director Yan Zhixian)
Main features: Glow injection therapy and Filler injections
Reference price for hyaluronic acid injections: 100,000 Korean won (approximately NT$2,700)
The director personally examines each patient, and the consultation time for each patient is no less than 20 minutes.
- ✅ Highly rated by dcard – the most reputable option in Myeongdong
- ⚠️ Minor drawback: It is recommended to book 9 days in advance during peak periods; walk-ins are not accepted.
👨⚕️ Dr. S. Derma (President Park Min-jun)
Featured treatments: Hyaluronic acid injections and whitening treatments
Reference price for hyaluronic acid injections: 120,000 Korean won (approximately NT$3,240)
The equipment can be inspected on-site to ensure that it is a genuine machine before making a decision.
- ✅ The top choice for tourist areas: reservations can be made and procedures can be completed on the same day.
- ⚠️ Minor drawback: It is recommended to book 12 days in advance during peak periods; walk-ins are not accepted.
👨⚕️ Jeju Derma (Director Lee Hyun-jin)
Main features: Moisturizing and sun protection care
Moisturizing and Repairing Treatment: Reference price: 80,000 Korean won (approximately NT$2,160)
The atmosphere of the clinic is understated and private, just like stepping into an art gallery.
- ✅ Jeju Island – the best value for money and a truly relaxing environment
- ⚠️ Minor drawback: It is recommended to book 15 days in advance during peak periods; walk-ins are not accepted.
🏆 2026 Seoul Dermatology Comprehensive Ranking
Evaluation criteria: Frequency of personal consultations by the hospital director × Age of equipment × Quality of Chinese-language service × Transparency of fees × Reputation on platforms like dcard and PTT
- April Skin Clinic: Specializes in providing natural results without excessive treatments (rating: ⭐4.9)
- DAN-A Dermatology: Highly rated by users, the most reputable clinic in Myeongdong (rating: ⭐4.8)
- S.Derma: The top choice for tourist areas – same-day reservation and same-day treatment (rating: ⭐4.7)
- Jeju Derma: The best cost-performance ratio on Jeju Island – an extremely relaxing environment (rating: ⭐4.6)
💡 The latest tips to save money in 2026 without being able to claim tax refunds
Since 2026, South Korea’s VAT refund policy for the medical aesthetics industry has been abolished, but there are still ways to save money:
- Converting South Korean won into cash at low exchange rates: By exchanging at these lower rates, you can save 3-5% in transaction fees compared to using a credit card.
- BeautsGO Early Bird Discount: 5-10% discount on certain treatments when reserved through the App.
- Negotiation for combined treatment packages: When undergoing two or more treatments at the same clinic, it is usually possible to get a discount of 15-15%.
- Regular day reservation discounts: From Tuesday to Thursday, during off-peak hours, some clinics offer discounts for regular day reservations.
❓ Common Questions
Q: Which institution on South Korea’s Dermatology “blacklist” in 2026 is the most recommended?
In terms of customer reviews in 2026, April Skin Clinic (headed by Director Choi Na-young) received the highest ratings in Seoul and is highly recommended as a first-choice option for consultations. Its main feature is its focus on achieving a natural look without excessive treatments.
Q: How much in advance should I make a reservation?
During the peak seasons (March to May, September to November), it is recommended to book 2-3 weeks in advance; on weekdays, reservations can usually be made in the same week.
Q: What is the approximate cost?
In Seoul, the price of these moisturizing and glow-enhancing injections starts at around 130,000 Korean won (approximately 3,510 Taiwanese dollars), which is 40-60% cheaper than similar treatments in Taiwan.
Q: How is the Chinese-language service?
The recommended clinics all offer consultation services in Chinese, either through in-person meetings or via WeChat – so language is never a barrier.
📲 How to make an appointment
Both of the following methods offer Chinese-language services. Free consultation and quotation are available, with no hidden fees.
💬 Method 1: Consult via WeChat
Search for the WeChat ID s-sourire and send “clinic + treatment package” to inquire about schedules and the latest prices.
📱 Method 2: Make an appointment through the BeautsGO App
Available for iOS, Android, web version, and WeChat Mini Programs – users can directly check for available clinic slots and confirm appointments online.
