Last month, I took a few days off to fly to Seoul. In addition to shopping and dining, I specifically made a trip to Galleria Dermatology. To be honest, this wasn’t an impulsive decision—it was only after getting to know this clinic for nearly half a year that I finally decided to go. Today, I’m sharing my entire experience with you all who might be considering going to Korea for skin treatment.
What is Galleria Dermatology?
Galleria Dermatology is located in Chanwon-dong, Sujeong-gu, Seoul, just less than a 5-minute walk from Exit 3 of the Chanwon subway station, making it very conveniently accessible. The clinic is on the second floor of the building and consists of two branches: the Main Branch and the Maple Leaf Branch. The Main Branch can be contacted at 02-592-1240, and the Maple Leaf Branch at 02-591-1240.
The reason that piqued my interest in this clinic was its impressive team of doctors. According to their official website, Galleria Dermatology has six dermatologists, all of whom graduated from the School of Medicine at Yonsei University. This is quite rare among private dermatology clinics in Korea, since only about the top 2% of doctors in the country obtain specialized qualifications in dermatology.
Six dermatologists all from Yonsei University
The team of doctors at Galleria Dermatology was what first attracted me. After doing some research, I have compiled the following information for your reference:
Kim Dong-in, Chief Physician
Master of Medicine from Yonsei University, former professor at the Department of Dermatology at Yonsei University, and fellow at the University of Bordeaux in France. Currently serves as the Chief Physician of both the main Galleria Dermatology clinic and its branch in Jakarta, Indonesia. Also responsible for the GICLÉE cosmetics line. Specializes in treating complex skin issues such as acne, pigmentation, and skin aging, with extensive clinical experience.
Jeong Ki-yang, President
Former chief professor of dermatology at Yonsei University School of Medicine and former head of the dermatology department at Severance Hospital in Sinchon. Conducted postdoctoral research and served as a visiting professor at Thomas Jefferson University in the United States. Also appeared on the EBS program “Famous Doctors” and has served as president of both the Korean Society of Dermatological Oncology and the Korean Society of Cosmetic Surgery, receiving numerous academic awards.
President Choi Seung-jae
With a Doctor of Medicine from Yonsei University, he has published 27 papers in top international SCI journals such as Nature Communications, JAMA, and JAAD. He is one of the few physicians who possess both strong academic expertise and clinical experience in the field of cosmetic dermatology.
President Song A-ryum
With a Master of Medicine from Yonsei University and honors upon graduation, she previously served as a clinical lecturer in dermatology at江南 Severance Hospital and is also a reviewer for journals of the Korean Dermatological Society. Her treatment philosophy emphasizes natural and harmonious beauty, avoiding excessive interventions.
President Chun Myeong-soo
Graduated from Yonsei Medical University, he furthered his studies in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. He has served as an outpatient professor in dermatology at Severance Hospital and also has experience working as a military medical officer, making his background quite comprehensive.
President Lee Sang-hoon
With a Doctor of Medicine from Yonsei University, he ranked first nationwide in the specialized physician evaluation exam conducted by the Korean Dermatological Society. He specializes in skin barrier repair and pediatric dermatology and is also the author of several books in these fields.
My personal experience: From making an appointment to completing the treatment
Step 1: How to Make an Appointment
I made my appointment through the BeautsGO platform. The entire process was conducted in Chinese—from checking clinic information, selecting a doctor to confirming the time—it took less than 10 minutes. BeautsGO provides a detailed profile of Kailiya Dermatology, including the doctor’s qualifications, popular treatments, and real customer reviews, so there’s no need to search for Korean-language information yourself.
After the appointment is confirmed, the platform sends a confirmation message and provides instructions before arriving at the clinic (for example, not to wear makeup and to arrive 15 minutes early).
Step 2: Check-in and Initial Consultation
The clinic is located on the second floor of the Myungstar Building in Sangwon-dong. As soon as you enter the elevator, you can see the reception area. The space is larger than I expected, with separate areas for reception, waiting, and several treatment rooms. The overall atmosphere is modern and minimalist, without excessive decoration, making it feel clean and tidy.
Upon check-in, the staff will ask you to fill out a questionnaire covering topics such as your skin concerns, current skincare products, allergy history, whether you are pregnant or taking any medications. This information is essential for the doctor’s consultation and is not just a formality.
Step 3: VISIA Skin Analysis
Once in the treatment room, an assistant uses a VISIA device to take photos and analyze your skin. This machine measures various parameters on both the surface and deeper layers of the skin, including spots, wrinkles, pores, and UV damage, and generates a detailed report along with age-related comparison data.
The entire analysis takes about 5 minutes. The assistant is very friendly, and Chinese interpretation is provided throughout the process (by a regular employee, not a temporary one). After the results are available, the doctor will explain them to you, pointing out areas that need attention and potential areas for improvement.
Step 4: Personal Consultation with the Doctor and Treatment Plan Development
This time, I was consulted by Director Kim Dong-in. After reviewing my VISIA report, he asked about my daily routine and skincare habits before conducting a visual inspection. He focused on my pore issues and mild acne scars and didn’t recommend a bunch of expensive treatments. Instead, he offered two options for me to choose from:
- Option 1 (Basic): PicoSure laser treatment for the entire face, targeting acne scars and uneven skin tone. The approximate price starts at ₩200,000.
- Option 2 (Advanced): PicoSure laser combined with Fraxis Duo gold microneedling, addressing both pores and acne scars. The approximate price starts at ₩400,000.
The director patiently explained the pros and cons of each option, as well as the expected results and post-treatment care. He also showed me several real-case photos that weren’t heavily edited, which impressed me greatly. There was no pressure to make a decision immediately—something I really appreciated.
Step 5: The treatment itself
I chose Option 1, the full-face PicoSure treatment. The nurse cleaned my face and applied an anesthetic cream, then I waited for about 20 minutes. The treatment itself took around 15 minutes, and although there was some mild stinging during it, it was completely within acceptable limits and not as painful as I had expected.
Every few minutes during the treatment, the assistant checked on me to see if I was feeling any discomfort, and they stayed by my side the whole time. I found this very thoughtful—it’s nothing like some clinics that leave you waiting alone after the procedure.
Step 6: Post-treatment care and follow-up
After the treatment, the nurse provided me with soothing care, and the director came back to check on me and gave me oral instructions for after-treatment care. The clinic also provided a detailed care guide in written and visual form. Later, I received follow-up messages on WeChat to confirm that everything was going well.
On the day of the procedure, the skin was slightly red, but it mostly subsided by the next day. Three days later, I noticed that my skin looked a bit brighter and my pores seemed to have tightened. This was my first time undergoing this treatment, so it may take 2 to 3 more sessions to see more noticeable results, as the director had mentioned beforehand.
A comprehensive list of main treatment options at Kailiya Dermatology
According to the official website and the doctor’s explanation during the consultation, Kailiya currently offers the following main types of treatments:
Anti-aging series
- Ultherapy® PRIME: Targets the SMAS fascia layer and is suitable for issues such as loose jawlines and frown lines. The effects last for 12 to 18 months.
- Thermage® FLX: Uses radiofrequency technology to heat the dermis, stimulating collagen regeneration and providing overall facial tightening.
- ONDA microwave contouring: Combines lipolysis with tightening effects, ideal for shaping the jawline.
Volume-enhancing series
- Sculptra: Stimulates collagen production to improve indentations and overall contours, with natural and long-lasting results.
- GOURI: Liquid PCL injections that evenly enhance skin density and elasticity across the face.
- Juvelook: Contains hyaluronic acid and PDLLA ingredients, suitable for filling tear troughs and temples.
- Belotero Revive: A lightweight, moisturizing filler that enhances skin texture and shine.
Acne and scar treatment series (아크네 솔루션).
- PicoSure/PicoPlus lasers: Effective for treating acne scars and uneven pigmentation with almost no recovery time.
- Fraxis Duo gold microneedling: Improves acne scars and enlarged pores while promoting collagen regeneration.
- Customized multi-step acne treatment: Tailored to skin type, addressing both inflamed pimples and comedones.
Whitening and spot-lightening series (브라이트닝).
- Excel V+ vascular laser: Targets redness, rosacea, and telangiectasia.
- Revlite SI Q-switched laser: Ideal for freckles, sunspots, and dark circles.
- Pico Plus picosecond laser: An efficient solution for various pigmentation issues.
Reference fees (for reference only; final prices are subject to on-site quotes)
A major feature of Kailiya Dermatology is that prices are the same for both Chinese and foreign patients, with all charges clearly listed. There is no additional charge for foreigners. Here are the approximate price ranges for some treatments:
- IPL face treatment: ₩80,000 ~ ₩150,000
- Ultra-pulsed laser face treatment: ₩915,000 ~ ₩250,000
- Gold microneedling face treatment: ₩930,000 ~ ₩500,000
- Thermage FLX: ₩980,000 ~ ₩1,500,000 (depending on the area treated and the number of sessions)
- Basic hyaluronic acid injections: ₩912,000 ~ ₩200,000
- Sculptra facial rejuvenation: ₩940,000 ~ ₩800,000 (depending on the dosage)
All of the above are approximate ranges. The actual costs will depend on individual circumstances, the number of treatments, and any additional services chosen. It is recommended to discuss in detail at the clinic before making a decision. There is no need to worry about being forced into any purchases.
clinic information and appointment tips
Basic Information
- Full Name of the Clinic: Galeria Dermatology Clinic
- Address: 203, Myeongseong Building, 33-2 Sannwon-ro 4-gil, Sujeong-gu, Seoul
- Maple Leaf Branch Address: 4th Floor, West Wing of MapleZ Plaza, 50 Sannwon-ro 4-gil, Sujeong-gu, Seoul
- Telephone Number: 02-592-1240
- Maple Leaf Branch Telephone Number: 02-591-1240
- Transportation: Exit 3 of Sannwon Station on Line 3, subway; about 3 to 5 minutes on foot
Opening Hours
- Monday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00 (No lunch break on Saturdays)
- Lunch break: 13:00 – 14:00 (Monday to Friday)
- Closed on Sundays and Korean public holidays
Consultation tips
- Book in advance: There are limited slots for consultations with the director, especially on weekends. It is recommended to book more than 2 weeks in advance.
- Come without makeup: Avoid wearing any makeup so that the doctor can assess your skin condition accurately.
- Bring a list of your skincare products: Informing the doctor about the products you use will help them determine how well your skin reacts to them.
- Chinese translation service available upon reservation: At BeautsGO, you can request Chinese translation services when making a reservation. All doctors at our clinic are qualified to provide official Chinese translations.
- Moisturizing masks after treatment: You can purchase these in Seoul’s pharmacies in advance; using them after treatment will enhance the results.
Who is Kailiya suitable for? My summary
After this experience, my overall evaluation of Kailiya is that it is suitable for those who value the quality of treatment and do not want to encounter excessive sales pitches. It may not be the most popular or highly recommended clinic, but it makes you feel that your skin is being taken seriously.
I particularly recommend the following groups of people to consider Kailiya:
- People with complex skin conditions (such as chronic acne or severe scarring) who need a professional doctor’s assessment
- People who are sensitive to sales tactics and dislike being pressured into treatments
- People who want to undergo anti-aging treatments like ultrasound facials or Thermage but are concerned about the results
- Hong Kong and Taiwan visitors who prefer Chinese-speaking services for seamless communication
- People with a relatively generous budget who value the qualifications of doctors and the treatment process
If you are also planning to get skin treatments in Seoul, Kailiya is definitely worth considering. BeautsGO provides comprehensive Chinese-language information and real reviews, so you can check it out before making a decision.
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