Same Local Prices: Do Foreigners Pay More in Korea?
Many visitors worry about a “foreigner price”. Sometimes the worry is justified — usually because of brokers and separate menus, not the treatment itself.
Foreigners can end up paying more in Seoul when they book through agents who add commission, or when a clinic shows a separate, higher price menu to international patients. At YAAN Clinic, every treatment is published on one open price list, and that is the list we quote from — the same list for every patient, Korean or foreign.
Why “foreigner prices” happen
- Broker or agency commission: an intermediary may add a fee on top of the clinic’s price. Korea regulates foreign-patient brokers, and unregistered brokering is illegal.
- Separate menus: some clinics show international patients a different (higher) price list.
- Hidden extras: numbing, consultation or “interpretation” added at the counter.
- Event prices you can’t access: local promotions may require Korean apps or membership.
How to make sure you pay the local price
- Compare the quote with the clinic’s own public price page, not an agent’s.
- Book directly with the clinic where possible — for us, by WhatsApp or the consultation form.
- Ask for the brand, dose (units, cc or shots) and VAT status in writing.
- Check that coordinator or interpretation support isn’t billed separately.
Our approach
We list treatments openly so you can see prices before you fly, we don’t use package pressure, and the doctor recommends only what fits your skin and schedule. If a treatment isn’t needed, we’ll tell you. See the full treatment cost table or read why patients choose YAAN Clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to book through a medical tourism agency?
Not usually. Agencies may add commission. Booking directly with the clinic and comparing against its published prices is the simplest way to avoid paying extra.
Does YAAN Clinic charge foreigners more?
No. We quote from the same published price list for every patient. Your final price depends only on the treatment, brand and dose your doctor recommends.
Can foreigners get Korean 'event' prices?
Some clinics run app-only promotions for locals. Ask the clinic directly what is available to you, and make sure any discount is shown on your written quote.
Keep reading
Questions before you book?
Message our English-speaking coordinator with your dates and goals. A doctor reviews your case and you get a written price before you fly.
WhatsApp +82-10-5308-0499 Online consultation formPrices refer to YAAN Clinic’s published price list and may change. Information on broker regulation is general; this guide is not legal or medical advice.
