Best Eye Clinics in Korea for Foreigners
Korea is one of the safest and most advanced countries in the world for eye surgery. Whether you're considering SMILE LASIK, traditional LASIK, LASEK, or a full diagnostic vision exam, Seoul offers world-class ophthalmology centers with cutting-edge technology and surgeons who perform thousands of procedures every year.
For foreigners, choosing the right clinic often comes down to English communication, safety, and high surgical success rates. Below are two of the best eye clinics in Korea trusted by both expats and international visitors for vision correction.
1. Apgujeong Eye Clinic (Gangnam)
Apgujeong Eye Clinic is a long-established favorite in Seoul’s Gangnam district. Known for its precise diagnostics, ethical recommendations, and comfortable environment, this clinic is one of the most recommended options for foreigners seeking safe vision correction.
Why Foreigners Choose Apgujeong Eye Clinic:
- English-friendly consultation and support
- Thorough pre-surgery eye mapping and safety screening
- Personalized treatment recommendations based on corneal thickness, dryness, lifestyle, and occupation
- High satisfaction rates for SMILE LASIK and LASIK patients
- Clean, modern clinic with excellent aftercare
Best For:
SMILE LASIK, LASIK, LASEK, dry-eye–friendly procedures, long-term vision stability, and first-time surgical patients.
2. Gangnam Smile Eye Clinic (Gangnam Station)
Gangnam Smile Eye Clinic is widely known for its excellent SMILE LASIK procedures and is highly popular among both Koreans and expats. The clinic handles a large volume of foreign patients each month, making it a comfortable and efficient choice for non-Korean speakers.
Why Foreigners Choose Gangnam Smile Eye Clinic:
- Strong reputation for SMILE LASIK precision
- English-speaking staff and easy communication
- Fast and organized surgery process with detailed aftercare guidance
- Very high surgical experience with modern laser equipment
- Great for travelers or expats who want quick recovery and reliable outcomes
Best For:
SMILE LASIK, SMILE Pro, high-myopia correction, astigmatism correction, and patients who want minimal downtime.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination for Eye Surgery
Foreigners choose Korea for eye procedures because:
- Advanced laser technology not yet widely available in other countries
- Highly experienced surgeons performing thousands of procedures annually
- Lower cost compared to the U.S., Europe, Canada, and Australia
- Fast recovery with minimal discomfort
- Strong safety protocols with detailed pre-op testing
Korea offers some of the best outcomes globally for refractive surgery.
Tips for Choosing the Right Eye Clinic in Korea
- Ask if they provide full English support during consultation and aftercare
- Check if they offer corneal thickness and dry-eye testing
- Make sure your clinic uses the latest laser generation
- Ask about realistic expectations, especially if you have high myopia or astigmatism
- Confirm follow-up appointment availability, especially if traveling