Many people ask me where to go for cosmetic procedures in Seoul, and most of them immediately think of Gangnam. However, after spending three years working in Dermatology in South Korea, I have come to the conclusion that Seongsu-dong is actually the most underrated gem for cosmetic treatments in Seoul right now.
There are indeed many dermatology clinics in Gangnam, but the fees are high, appointments are difficult to get, and the service process tends to be very standardized. However, the dermatology clinics that have emerged in Seongsu-dong in recent years offer a completely different experience: the directors personally see patients, the prices are 20-40% lower than those in Gangnam, and visitors can also enjoy coffee shops and boutiques in the surrounding area.
This article is the result of my personal visits to five popular Dermatology clinics in Seongsu-dong. It includes information on what each clinic specializes in, their price ranges, as well as who they are suitable for and who they are not suitable for. If you are currently researching and gathering information on Dcard/PTT, you can definitely save this article as a useful guide for making decisions.
I. Why choose Seongsu-dong instead of Gangnam?
To conclude, the cost-performance ratio of Dermatology at Seongsu-dong is generally higher than that of similar clinics in Gangnam.
There are several specific reasons for this:
- Low rental costs: The rental fees in the Seongsu-dong area are lower than those in Apgujeong, Gangnam. As a result, the operating costs for clinics are also reduced, which means the prices are 20-40% more affordable compared to Gangnam.
- Competition forces improvements in quality: In recent years, many new Dermatology clinics have opened in Seongsu-dong, leading to fierce competition. As a result, these clinics must rely on positive reviews and excellent service to survive, which is why the proportion of doctors personally handling patients is much higher than in the large chain clinics in Gangnam.
- No assembly line approach: Some large Dermatology clinics in Gangnam receive hundreds of patients in a single day, and the consultation time may be as short as 5 minutes. Clinics in Seongsu-dong are generally smaller in scale and operate on a reservation system, allowing the clinic director to have ample time to talk with you in detail.
- Added value in terms of the experience: After the treatment, you can immediately head to the areas surrounding Seongsu Cave, where you’ll find popular coffee shops, boutiques, and the flagship Dior store. It’s perfectly possible to arrange a half-day itinerary that combines medical beauty treatments with shopping and coffee.
If you have read my previous recommendations
cs in Apgujeong, you should be aware that there are also many excellent clinics in Gangnam District. However, if you, like me, don’t want to spend hours waiting in line or waste money unnecessarily, then Seongsu-dong is a much smarter choice.
II. A quick overview of 5 Dermatology clinics in Seongsu-dong
The table below is a quick comparison based on my personal experience. You can simply take a glance at it to find the option that suits you best:
| clinic | Most proficient in | Price positioning | Suitable for | The Dean’s Unique Approach |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SERENE | Acne/pigmentation/sensitive skin | ★★☆ Friendly to the Public | Acne-prone skin, sensitive to pain, and prefer female directors | The female dean has 20 years of experience and is approachable without any aggressive sales tactics. |
| Meltaway | Anti-aging/Facial Lifting/Lipolysis | ★★★ Medium to High | With ample budget, seeking high-end anti-aging solutions | A Doctor of Medicine who independently developed lipolysis technology |
| Newlline | Suture placement/filling/HIFU | ★★☆ Mid-range | For first-time users who want a natural look with minimal visible results. | With both directors in charge, the prices of Ulthera are highly competitive. |
| IRIS | HIFU/Pico/comprehensive treatment | ★★☆ Popular among Consumers | Priority is given to high cost-performance ratios and convenient transportation. | Graduated from Eshan Hospital, with a solid professional foundation |
| Bellis | Filling treatments for the eyes, lips, and skin rejuvenation | ★★★ Medium to High | We place great emphasis on environmental considerations and strive for precise and meticulous filling techniques. | The director personally oversees all projects. |
III. SERENE Dermatology: A Safe Haven for People with Acne-Prone or Sensitive Skin
Basic Information
- Address: 4th Floor, Baeksu Building, 122 Eosasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
- Transportation: Walk for 5 minutes from Exit 3 of Seongsu Station on Line 2 of the subway, or you can also arrive via Nidao Station.
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM; Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed on Wednesday).
- Dean: Kim Se-rim, a female physician with 20 years of clinical experience in Dermatology.
SERENE was the first clinic I visited in Seongsu-dong, and it left the deepest impression on me. The director, Dr. Kim Si-rin, is a female physician who speaks in a gentle tone but makes very decisive diagnoses. She won’t simply go along with your requests if you want to opt for more expensive treatments; instead, she will recommend the most suitable solutions based on the condition of your skin.
When I went for a consultation, I originally wanted to get hyaluronic acid injections. However, after the director reviewed my skin test results, he said that my skin’s barrier was severely damaged at present, so the injections wouldn’t be very effective. He suggested that I repair my skin barrier first before considering any other treatments. Then he prescribed a Kiomer repair treatment for me – this treatment can even be reimbursed by insurance in South Korea, which really saved me some money.
Recommended products and reference prices:
| Project | Reference price (Korean won) | Suitable |
|---|---|---|
| Potenza Potenza | 181,500 cases | Acne scars, enlarged Pores, and skin quality improvement |
| Rejuran PN | 270,000 cases | Profound hydration, anti-aging, and repair effects |
| 5-week specialized treatment program for acne | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | Repeated outbreaks of acne and persistent acne scars are a real nuisance. |
| Pigment and chloasma management | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | Spots and uneven skin tone |
| Kiomer Skin Barrier Repair | Insurable coverage available | Sensitive skin with damaged barrier function |
Advantages: The female director is friendly and does not engage in aggressive sales; the acne treatment services have an excellent reputation; the prices are relatively affordable compared to other areas in the Seongsu region; and there is no barrier to communication in Chinese.
Disadvantages: The clinic is relatively small in size, so appointments on weekends are usually full, and it’s best to book 1-2 weeks in advance. The range of services offered is more focused on high-quality treatments; it’s not a general hospital that offers a wide variety of procedures.
If you have previously read my detailed account
about the process of visiting the clinic and my post-treatment feelings, which you may find helpful to refer to.
IV. Melting Dermatology: The Hidden Expert in the Anti-aging Field
Basic Information
- Address: Room 403, 4th Floor, Sanjin Building, 113 Eosasan-ro, Seongdong District, Seoul
- Transportation: Walk for 3 minutes from Exit 2 of Seongsu Station on Line 2 of the subway.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM
- Dean: Park Gyeong-min (박경민), Doctor of Medicine from Hanyang University, former dean of the 365MC Sinchon branch
Melting follows a high-end anti-aging approach. Its director, Park Kyung-min, holds a doctorate in medicine and serves as the chief academic officer of the South Korea Society of Dermatological Liposuction and Plastic Surgery – in other words, he is recognized as an expert in this field. His most notable achievement is the independently developed Mel-Fat fat-dissolving injection technique, which is specifically used for shaping the facial V-line.
The decoration style of the clinic is industrial, which matches well with the overall atmosphere of Seongsu-dong. The waiting area is small but provides a strong sense of privacy. The director personally conducts the consultations, using instruments to scan your facial structure before recommending 2-3 treatment options – without necessarily pushing the most expensive one on you.
Recommended products and reference prices:
| Project | Reference price (Korean won) | Suitable |
|---|---|---|
| Melting Signature Customized Package | 8,000,000 cases in total | Comprehensive anti-aging treatment for the entire face, addressing sagging and drooping skin |
| HIFU ultrasonic lifting | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | Lifting of facial contours |
| Mel-Fat Fat Dissolution Injection | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | V-line shaping and Double Chin removal |
| InMode Radiofrequency Technology | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | Tightening and body shaping |
Advantages: The director has a strong academic background, independently develops medical technologies, does not follow a package-based service model, and the clinic provides a high level of privacy for patients.
Disadvantages: The prices are relatively high, with the Signature package starting at 8 million Korean won; the clinics are smaller in scale, and the range of services offered is not as extensive as that of larger general hospitals.
If what you seek is an anti-aging effect that is immediately visible after just one treatment, and your budget is relatively ample, Melting is the top choice in Seongsu-dong. However, if this is your first time undergoing medical beauty treatments in South Korea and you would like to start with basic procedures, then take a look at Newlline.
V. Newlline Dermatology: The perfect starting point for your first experience with South Korean medical aesthetics
Basic Information
- Address: 5th Floor, No. 26 Sangwon-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
- Transportation: Walk for 3 minutes from Exit 2 of Baodao Station on Line 2 of the subway.
- Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 11:00-20:00; Friday, 11:00-21:00 (night services); Saturday, 11:00-16:00.
- Deans: Lee Eun-sil (이은실) and Kim Hyun-joo (김현주), a dual-dean system
Newlline is, in my opinion, the perfect choice for those who are going to South Korea for medical aesthetics treatment for the first time. The reasons are simple: there are two directors in charge, a Chinese-speaking receptionist, transparent prices, and the directors provide very detailed explanations.
Dr. Lee Eun-sik previously worked at Gangnam Cha&U and NBY Plastic Surgery, boasting extensive experience. Her expertise lies in Thread Lifting and filler injections, and her technique is particularly delicate—this is especially crucial when it comes to fillers, as improper application can easily result in an “artificial-looking face.” However, her approach emphasizes applying small amounts in multiple sessions to achieve a natural, non-stiff look.
Another advantage is that the price of Newlline’s HIFU device is highly competitive in the Gangnam area, starting from 990,000 Korean won – which is significantly cheaper than similar treatments offered by clinics in Gangnam.
Recommended products and reference prices:
| Project | Reference price (Korean won) | Suitable |
|---|---|---|
| Ulthera HIFU | 990,000 cases | Facial Lifting and Tightening |
| Shurink Universe Ultrasonic Waves | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | Lifting of the entire facial contour |
| Thread Lifting | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | Mid-to-lower facial sagging |
| Filler injection | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | Nasolabial Fold Correction and Apple Zone |
| PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Regenerative Injection | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | Improving skin quality and anti-aging effects |
Advantages: The two directors are highly competent; there is no communication barrier in Chinese with the front desk staff; the prices of Ulthera treatments are competitive; the directors provide detailed explanations without attempting to make sales; there are evening consultations available on Fridays until 21:00.
Disadvantages: The individual prices are on the higher end, making them suitable for those willing to pay a premium for quality; reservations are often full, so it is recommended to book one week in advance.
If you have compared the top 4 Dermatology cl
u will find that Newlline offers service quality on par with that of the high-end clinics in Gangnam, yet at a much more affordable price.
VI. IRIS Dermatology: The king of cost-effectiveness and the most conveniently located clinic
Basic Information
- Address: 2nd Floor, No. 26, Sangwon-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
- Transportation: It’s only a 1-minute walk from Exit 5 of Baodao Station on Line 2 of the subway (you’ll arrive right after exiting the station!).
- Business hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10:00-19:00, Saturday 09:30-14:30 (Closed on Thursday).
- Dean: Choi Ju-yeon, graduated from the School of Medicine at Ulsan National University, and completed training in Dermatology at Eosan Hospital and Gangbuk Samsung Medical Center.
IRIS is one of the five clinics with the most convenient transportation options – you can reach it in just 1 minute by walking out of Exit 5 of Dodong Island Station, without even needing to use a navigation app. The director, Choi Joo-yeon, has a very solid professional background; she received specialized training in Dermatology at Ewha Womans University Hospital, one of South Korea’s top comprehensive hospitals, and is by no means a doctor who entered this field later in her career.
The atmosphere in the clinic is rather low-key and quiet, creating a sense of “serious medical treatment”. In terms of equipment, it is equipped with the second-generation HIFU, Pico Plus Pico laser, Star Walker laser, and Secret RF microneedle radiofrequency technology – making it one of the clinics with the most comprehensive range of facilities in the Seongsu area at this price range.
Recommended products and reference prices:
| Project | Reference price (Korean won) | Suitable |
|---|---|---|
| The second-generation HIFU ultrasound lifting technology | 1,800,000 cases | Comprehensive Lifting of the Entire Face |
| Pico Plus Pico laser | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | Eliminating freckles and uneven skin tone |
| LDM Water Drop Lifting + Relaxation | 150,000 cases | Moisturizing and postoperative sedation |
| Acne management/Care for the skin | 90,000 cases | Daily skin care |
| Secret RF Micro-needle Radiofrequency Technology | A face-to-face consultation is required for a quote. | Acne scars, Pores, and skin tightening |
Advantages: Extremely convenient transportation (just 1 minute to reach the station), comprehensive facilities, a dean with solid professional background, reasonable prices, and suitability for both HIFU and pigment removal treatments.
Disadvantages: No services on Thursdays, and the clinic is only open until 14:30 on Saturdays (the time schedule is rather tight). Additionally, the atmosphere of the clinic has a more “medical” feel and is not as refined as that of Bellis.
VII. Bellis Dermatology: An environment of utmost beauty, ideal for delicate treatments
Basic Information
- Address: Room 201, 2nd Floor, No. 126 Eosasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
- Transportation: Walk for 3 minutes from Exit 3 of Seongsu Station on Line 2 of the subway.
- Opening hours: Monday/Friday 11:00-21:00, Tuesday/Thursday 11:00-19:30, Saturday 11:00-17:30
- Dean: Lee Hong-seok, specializing in fillers and Lifting treatments for the eyes, lips, and Nasolabial Fold Correction area.
Bellis is among the five clinics with the most exquisite decoration and the highest level of luxury. The design of both the corridors and treatment rooms reflects great care; the waiting area, where guests can enjoy tea, feels more like that of a boutique hotel than a medical clinic. The director, Dr. Li Hongshuo, specializes in fillers for delicate areas such as the eyes, lips, and Nasolabial Fold Correction.
If you have ever undergone any cosmetic procedures, you know that the quality of the results depends entirely on the doctor’s aesthetic judgment and technical skills. Director Li is known for performing all procedures himself, without delegating them to others. His approach results in a more natural look, and the treated areas never end up looking like wax statues.
Recommended Projects:
| Project | Suitable |
|---|---|
| Filling for the eyes, lips, and Nasolabial Fold Correction areas | Precise contouring for a natural look |
| Ulthera HIFU | Comprehensive Lifting of the Entire Face |
| Thermage | Anti-aging and collagen regeneration |
| Virtue RF RF Lifting | Improvement in moderate sagging |
| Asce+ Exosomes therapy | Deep skin rejuvenation and regeneration |
Advantages: The environment is extremely luxurious; the director personally oversees all procedures; the clinic is particularly skilled at filling delicate areas; night consultations are available on Mondays and Fridays until 21:00.
Disadvantages: The price is relatively high (a face-to-face consultation is required for an accurate quote); the location is a bit remote, but the environment is quiet. It may not be suitable for those who are looking to undergo basic, affordable treatments.
Bellis is suitable for a specific group of people: those who are no longer novices in the field of cosmetic surgery, know exactly what results they want, and are willing to invest in high quality and precision. If you belong to this category, Bellis will not disappoint you. However, if this is your first time considering cosmetic procedures and your budget is limited, the previously recommended SERENE or IRIS would be a better starting point for you.
VIII. My final recommendation: Choose the option that best meets your needs.
After visiting five different places, I came up with a quick decision-making guide. You can simply refer to it according to your own needs:
| Your situation | Recommendation | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| Acne-prone skin/sensitive skin/looking for a female dermatologist | SERENE | The director doesn’t engage in any promotional activities; it boasts an excellent reputation for acne treatment, and its prices are very affordable. |
| With a generous budget, striving for the best anti-aging treatments | Meltaway | Dean of the doctoral program + independently developed technologies; no reliance on pre-packaged solutions. |
| This is my first time coming to South Korea for cosmetic procedures. | Newlline | Chinese-speaking receptionists, two directors in charge, detailed explanations – the Ulthera treatment is truly affordable. |
| Priority is given to cost-effectiveness; a comprehensive range of equipment is desired. | IRIS | Reasonable prices, the most comprehensive range of equipment – results available within just 1 minute. |
| We place great emphasis on environmental considerations and strive for precise and meticulous filling techniques. | Bellis | The environment is stunning, the director personally performs the procedure, and the results in filling are remarkable. |
If you want a more comprehensive comparison of Dermatology clinics in Seoul, you can refer to the previous articles I prepared: “1v1
ng” a
n Hongdae”. These articles cover a wide range of clinics located in different areas of Seoul.
IX. Notes for Making an Appointment at Dermatology, Seongsu-dong
After visiting five different places, I came up with some practical suggestions:
- All appointments must be made in advance: Dermatology clinics in Seongsu-dong operate on a fully reservation-based system, so walk-ins are virtually impossible. It is recommended to make an appointment 3 to 7 days in advance; during peak periods on weekends, it is best to book 1 to 2 weeks in advance.
- Making an appointment through BeautsGO is the most convenient way: the interface is available in Chinese, and you can view the real-time schedule of the clinic directors as well as genuine user reviews. Some clinics also offer exclusive discounts available only on this platform, making it more cost-effective than calling directly.
- During the in-person consultation, be sure to clearly state your requirements. In South Korea, clinic directors generally respect the patients’ wishes, but they will also provide professional advice. It is recommended that you think in advance about 2-3 issues that matter most to you and ask them directly during the consultation.
- Don’t choose a clinic solely based on price: While the prices in Seongsu-dong are generally lower than those in Gangnam, each clinic specializes in different areas. Instead of choosing the cheapest option, it’s better to find one that suits your specific needs.
- It takes about 2 to 3 hours in total – from the initial consultation to the completion of the treatment. It is recommended to schedule the treatment in the morning and then visit the cafes and boutiques in Seongsu-dong in the afternoon; this will ensure the highest level of efficiency.
X. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What exactly are the differences between Seongsu Dermatology and Gangnam Dermatology?
A: The main differences lie in three aspects: price (Seongsu is 20-40% cheaper), service model (in Seongsu, the director personally handles more procedures), and difficulty of making appointments (it’s much easier to get an appointment at Seongsu than at Gangnam). Gangnam’s advantages lie in its larger number of clinics and a wider range of services. However, unless you have a specific high-end treatment in mind, Seongsu offers a better value for money.
Q: Can I go there if I don’t speak Korean?
A: All five of them are fine. SERENE and Newlline have Chinese-speaking receptionists, while the directors or nurses at the other three clinics can communicate in basic Chinese/English. With a translation app, that’s more than enough. If you make an appointment through BeautsGO, the entire process will be handled in Chinese, so you don’t have to worry about language barriers at all.
Q: If it’s my first time undergoing cosmetic procedures in South Korea, which clinic is the safest to choose?
A: Newlline. With dual directors on board, a Chinese-speaking receptionist, detailed explanations without any aggressive sales tactics, and transparent Ulthera treatment prices – these features combined make it particularly user-friendly for newcomers. If you want to start with more basic skin care routines, SERENE is also an excellent choice.
Q: Can I apply makeup on the same day after the Seongsu Cave treatment?
A: It depends on the specific treatment. Basic skincare treatments like microbubble therapy and hydration management are usually okay. For laser and microneedling treatments, it is recommended to wait until the next day before applying makeup. After HIFU or HIFU treatments, there may be some redness on the same day, so it is advisable to go without makeup. The clinic director will provide clear instructions for post-treatment care.
Q: Are the prices fixed? Is it possible to negotiate them?
A: In South Korea, the prices at regular Dermatology clinics are generally fixed, but different clinics adopt different pricing strategies. SERENE and IRIS adopt an open pricing model, with transparent prices. Melting and Bellis provide quotes based on the treatment plan after a face-to-face consultation. It is recommended to make appointments through BeautsGO, as the platform sometimes offers discounts.
Q: Is it possible to undergo different treatments at two different clinics on the same day?
A: It is not recommended. Treatment plans at different clinics may conflict with each other, and the skin also needs time to recover after the procedure. It is advisable to focus on one clinic at a time and complete a full treatment course before considering other options.
XI. Conclusion
As an emerging hub for medical aesthetics in Seoul, Seongsu-dong’s greatest strengths lie in its high cost-performance ratio, the personal consultations provided by the clinic directors, and the excellent overall experience it offers patients. Unlike Gangnam, which is much more crowded and commercialized, Seongsu-dong is no less equipped in terms of facilities and technical standards.
Each of these five clinics has its own strengths: for those with acne-prone skin, go to SERENE; for high-end anti-aging treatments, choose Melting; for beginners, Newlline is the perfect option; if you’re looking for great value for money, IRIS is your best bet; and for a more refined experience, Bellis is the way to go. No matter which clinic you decide to visit, it’s recommended that you make your reservation through BeautsGO – the Chinese-language interface, transparent pricing, and additional discounts offered by the platform make this option far more reliable than trying to arrange everything on your own.
One last thing to remind you: In the field of medical aesthetics, more expensive options are not necessarily better; what suits you best is what really counts. I wish everyone success in finding their ideal clinic in Seongsu-dong.
