Before going to Busan for cosmetic procedures for the first time, I was filled with doubts: Should I go to Seoul or Busan? Which clinic is reliable? Would I get ripped off? It wasn’t until I went several times that I realized how much Busan’s cosmetic services are actually underestimated. For the same treatments, the prices in Busan are significantly lower than those in Seoul’s Gangnam area. Moreover, with fewer foreign tourists, the service quality is even better. In this article, I share my experiences from three cosmetic procedures in Busan, hoping it can provide some useful information for those considering going to Korea for similar treatments for the first time.
Why did I choose to go to Busan instead of Seoul?
To be honest, the main reason I decided to go to Busan for cosmetic procedures for the first time was the cost of the flight. Flying from Shanghai to Busan was nearly half as expensive as flying to Seoul, and the flight time was also shorter. But once I actually went there, I realized that the benefits of having cosmetic procedures in Busan were far more than just saving money.
- The cost-performance ratio is truly excellent: For the same Thermage FLX full-face treatment with 300 treatment sessions, the price in Busan is at least 20-30% lower than that in Gangnam, and the price of hyaluronic acid injections is even more surprisingly affordable. Moreover, most clinics in Busan adhere to the principle of “same prices for both Chinese and Korean patients,” so there’s no need to worry about being treated differently.
- No crowding, more attentive service: Popular clinics in Gangnam receive dozens or even hundreds of patients in a single day, and sometimes the process can seem like working on an assembly line. In Busan, however, the traffic is much less dense, so the clinic directors have more time to communicate carefully with patients, making the entire experience much more relaxed and comfortable.
- It’s also a great opportunity to take a trip: Busan itself is an excellent tourist destination – with places like Haeundae Beach, Gancheon Culture Village, and Jagalchi Market… After undergoing cosmetic procedures, you can still go shopping and enjoy seafood, so you won’t waste a single minute of your trip.
- The two major shopping areas in Seomyeon and Nampo are extremely convenient to access: most of Busan’s Dermatology clinics are located near the Seomyeon Station and Nampo Station, with direct subway connections, and they are also not far from the airport (it takes about 40 minutes to transfer from the Gimhae Airport train to the subway).
Three Dermatology clinics in Busan that I personally recommend
I have been to Busan three times and visited three different clinics: JRYN, PPEUM PPEUM, and JinYang Ji. Each of them has its own unique features, and I will share my experiences in detail below.
🥇 JRYN Dermatology Nampo Branch – A trustworthy option with prices comparable to those in Korea
JRYN was my first stop when I visited Busan, and it remains one of the places I visit most frequently. It is located right next to Exit 4 of Nampo Station, so you can get there without even having to walk much after exiting the station – extremely convenient indeed. What attracted me the most was their “same price for both Chinese and foreigners” policy: no matter what country you come from, the same treatments are offered at the same prices, with no extra charges for foreigners.
The first time I underwent the Rejuran PN 2-centum core glow treatment, I was very satisfied with the results. My skin became significantly more hydrated, and the uncomfortable swelling that often occurs after such treatments was almost completely absent; I was able to go out as usual the very next day. Later on, I had another treatment with thermage for my eyes. The director performed the procedure with great care, and indeed, the fine lines around my eyes became much less noticeable after the treatment.
There is one thing at JRYN that really reassures me: the director personally conducts the consultations and performs the treatments himself, so it’s absolutely impossible for one person to conduct the consultation while another performs the treatment. Moreover, they have over 60 different types of equipment, offering a wide range of options. The director will recommend the most suitable treatment plan based on the condition of your skin, rather than forcing you to choose more expensive options.
JRYN Dermatology Nampo Branch (제이알와이피부과)
🥈 PPEUM Dermatology Seomyeon Branch – The King of Cost-Effectiveness
PPEUM is a large-scale chain Dermatology clinic in South Korea, with branches located near the Seomyeon station in Busan. Their greatest advantage lies in their affordable prices—not the kind of cheapness resulting from cut corners, but rather the fact that as a chain organization, they are able to reduce procurement costs, resulting in significantly lower prices compared to many similar clinics.
I opted for the Potenza + Rejuran treatment package at PPEUM. The price was nearly Samseong cheaper than getting these treatments separately at JRYN. The results were also very good – my Pores became significantly smaller, and my skin tone became more even. However, since PPEUM is a chain institution, the waiting time can sometimes be quite long (I waited about 30 minutes that time). It’s recommended to schedule appointments during the morning hours on weekdays.
The director of PPEUM, Park Jin-ryong, has over 15 years of clinical experience in Dermatology and is highly skilled in anti-aging treatments and injectable procedures. For those who are new to medical aesthetics and have limited budgets, PPEUM is an excellent starting point.
PPEUM Dermatology Seomyeon Branch
🥉 Jin Yang Ji Dermatology Seomyeon Branch – A trusted and established option with 40 years of experience
Kim Yang-ji is a established Dermatology clinic in Busan that has been in operation for over 40 years. It was also the first Dermatology clinic in South Korea to receive the JCI International Medical Safety Certification. I underwent the Xerf radiofrequency treatment at Kim Yang-ji – the same one endorsed by Park Shin-hye. Compared to traditional radiofrequency procedures, the pain level is significantly lower. During the treatment, the director would constantly ask how I was feeling and adjust the intensity accordingly.
The team at Jinyang Ji consists of over a dozen specialist directors, each with their own area of expertise. During my visit, it was Director Zhang Fengshuo who examined me personally. After reviewing my skin test results, he suggested that I start with radiofrequency treatments combined with basic moisturizing therapies, and only after my skin condition stabilized should I consider microneedling. This approach of not rushing to push any specific treatment options really puts people at ease.
Jinyang Ji Huan also has a very convenient feature: tax refunds can be processed directly on-site in the area surrounding the hospital. You can get your refund right after the procedure, without having to go to the airport and queue up. This is really considerate for foreign tourists who are short on time.
Kim Yang Je Dermatology Seomyeon Branch
How can I make an appointment at a Dermatology clinic in Busan through BeautsGO?
I made my three trips to Busan through BeautsGO. Why not just call directly or use KakaoTalk? The reason is simple: I don’t speak Korean, and the reservation process through BeautsGO is truly much more convenient than contacting the clinics directly. Here are the steps I followed to make my reservations:
- Download the BeautsGO App or WeChat Mini Program: Just search for “BeautsGO – Beauty for All”. You don’t need to install an app for the WeChat Mini Program.
- Registration account: You can register using your mobile phone number, and Chinese mobile phone numbers are completely acceptable.
- Search for clinics: Enter “JRYN”, “PPEUM” or “Jinyangji” and select the Busan branch.
- Select the treatment and time slot: Decide on the specific treatment you want to undergo and choose the appropriate date and time. For popular treatments such as Thermage and HIFU, the time slots are usually in high demand, so don’t hesitate if you find a suitable option.
- Submit and wait for confirmation: After filling in your personal information and submitting it, the customer service will usually confirm it within 1 to 2 hours. If you have any special requirements (such as requesting a specific director), please mention them in the remarks section.
- You will receive a confirmation notice: Once confirmed, you will get detailed instructions on how to arrive at the clinic, including the address, transportation options, and any important notes.
How far in advance should one make a reservation for cosmetic procedures in Busan?
Compared to Seoul, it is generally easier to get a reservation in Busan, but during the peak season, all slots are usually booked up. Based on my own experiences of visiting several times, I have summarized the following information:
- During the off-season (March to April, September to November, excluding holidays): It’s sufficient to book 2 to 3 days in advance. On weekdays in the morning, there is usually a chance to get a appointment on the same day. For my appointment with JRYN on Thursday afternoon in November, I booked 2 days in advance.
- During the peak seasons (May-June, October), it is recommended to make a reservation one week in advance, especially for weekends. Due to the affordable prices at PPEUM, there are particularly many people booking during these periods, so it is advisable to book even earlier.
- During winter and summer vacations (July-August, January-February): The holiday season in Busan is not as intense as in Seoul, but popular clinics such as JRYN Nampo Branch and Kim Yang Ji still tend to fill up their schedules for Thermage and HIFU treatments well in advance. It is recommended to book at least 1-2 weeks in advance.
- Continuous holidays (Mid-Autumn Festival, Spring Festival, Golden Week): During these continuous holiday periods, a large number of tourists also flock to Busan. It is more reliable to make reservations 2-3 weeks in advance.
A small suggestion: If your schedule is flexible, try to avoid Saturdays. In Busan, most Dermatology clinics are only open until 3 or 4 pm on Saturdays, meaning there are fewer hours available and competition is higher. On weekdays, there are many more options available, and it’s also easier to get a appointment.
My experience at the clinic (taking the JRYN Nampo branch as an example)
Step 1: Find the right place
The JRYN Nampo store is located next to Exit 4 of Nampo Station on Subway Line 1; you can almost see the sign as soon as you exit the station. It’s on the 6th floor of the B.I.G Building, so just take the elevator there. If it’s your first time in Busan, BeautsGO will provide a navigation link in the confirmation notice, so just follow those directions.
Step 2: Registration at the front desk
Upon arrival at the clinic, you should first present your passport at the front desk to have your name and reservation information verified. You will then be given a Chinese consultation form, where you need to fill in basic details such as your allergy history, any previous medical treatments related to aesthetics, and whether you have any implants. JRYN provides on-site Chinese translators, so communication throughout the process is completely seamless.
Step 3: Skin Examination
After completing the registration process, a skin examination will be conducted. JRYN uses professional skin analysis equipment (which not every clinic is equipped with), and the report can be generated in about 2 to 3 minutes. The report will provide detailed data regarding your Pores, skin pigmentation spots, wrinkles, and other aspects, which the clinic director will take into consideration during the personal consultation.
Step 4: Personal consultation by the hospital director
There is plenty of time for the in-person consultation, and the director will propose a treatment plan based on the test results and the issues you wish to address. When I first visited JRYN, I originally planned to undergo both hyaluronic acid injection and microneedling at once, but the director advised me to start with the hyaluronic acid injection first and consider microneedling after two weeks. This approach of not forcing anything on patients is truly reassuring.
Step 5: Performing the treatment
After the initial consultation to confirm the treatment plan, the staff will provide you with a written estimate. Once you agree to the costs, you can sign the form and start the treatment. The HIFU procedure takes approximately 20–30 minutes, while Thermage treatment requires 1–1.5 hours (including the time for applying the anesthetic). The director will explain the process as it is being performed, so you won’t feel anxious at all.
Step 6: Postoperative care + payment
After the treatment, the nurse will provide you with soothing care, including applying a medical mask, and will also give you a detailed post-treatment instruction manual in both Chinese and English. Payment methods include cash, credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), as well as Alipay and WeChat. Both JRYN and Jinyang Ji offer convenient in-hospital tax refund services.
Practical tips for overseas tourists
- Reservations must be made in advance; walk-in appointments are not accepted. In Busan, most Dermatology clinics operate on a strict reservation system, with JRYN and Kim Yang-ji being particularly strict in this regard. It is almost impossible to get an additional appointment on-site. Making reservations through BeautsGO is the most convenient option, as the entire process can be completed in Chinese.
- The original passport must be brought along: When registering, you must present the original passport; a photo alone is not sufficient. I have a friend who ended up making a wasted trip just because they only brought a photo of their passport.
- If you come to the store with no makeup or light makeup on, it is necessary to remove your makeup before the skin examination. Wearing full makeup can affect the accuracy of the results, and removing makeup also takes time.
- Stop using retinol-based skincare products 4 weeks in advance: If you are scheduled to undergo treatments such as laser therapy or microneedling, retinol can cause the skin to become sensitive, so it is essential to discontinue its use beforehand.
- It’s better to go on a weekday to avoid the weekends. In Busan, shops are only open until 3 or 4 pm on Saturdays, so the available hours are limited and it’s difficult to get a reservation. On weekdays, there are more hours and fewer people, making the experience much better.
- Reserve half a day: From the time of registration at the clinic to the completion of the treatment, it usually takes 2-3 hours (including waiting time and post-treatment care). Therefore, don’t schedule too many appointments in one day.
- Tax refunds can be processed directly at the store: Both JRYN and Jinyang Ji offer in-store tax refund services, so there’s no need to queue up at the airport, saving you both time and effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How much cheaper is cosmetic surgery in Busan compared to Seoul?
A: Generally speaking, the costs of medical aesthetics treatments in Busan are 20-40% lower than those in Seoul’s Gangnam area. For example, the cost of a Thermage FLX full-face treatment with 300 treatment sessions is approximately 1.2-1.5 million Korean won in Gangnam, while in Busan it is around 900,000-1.2 million Korean won. The difference is even more significant when it comes to hyaluronic acid injections: some clinics in Busan offer basic treatments for just 100,000-120,000 Korean won per cc, which is nearly half the price in Gangnam. Moreover, most clinics in Busan adhere to the principle of “same prices for both Koreans and foreigners,” so there is no additional charge for foreign patients.
Q2: Is the technology in Dermatology clinics in Busan inferior to that in Seoul?
A: There’s absolutely no need to worry about this. Several major Dermatology clinics in Busan, such as JRYN, PPEUM, and Kim Yang-ji, use the same equipment as those in Seoul, and their directors also have equally impressive qualifications. JRYN boasts over 60 types of medical devices, while Kim Yang-ji was one of the first Dermatology clinics in South Korea to receive JCI international certification – so there is no issue with the technical aspect at all. The main difference between Busan and Seoul lies in the number of clinics available and the greater variety of options patients have, rather than the technical standards themselves.
Q3: Can I perform cosmetic procedures in Busan without knowing Korean?
A: No problem at all. If you make an appointment through BeautsGO, a Chinese translator will accompany you throughout the entire process at the clinic. JRYN, PPEUM, and Kim Yang-ji all have permanent Chinese translators on staff, and the consultation forms are also available in Chinese. Although the number of foreign tourists in Busan is smaller than that in Seoul, these clinics have extensive experience in serving overseas clients, so there will be no communication barriers.
Q4: How far in advance should one make a reservation for medical beauty treatments in Busan?
A: During the off-season, it’s sufficient to book 2-3 days in advance on regular weekdays. However, during the peak seasons (May-June, October), it is recommended to book 1 week in advance. For winter and summer vacations, booking 1-2 weeks in advance is more reliable. During holidays such as Mid-Autumn Festival, Spring Festival, or Golden Week, it’s best to book 2-3 weeks in advance. With BeautsGO, you can cancel your reservation for free, so it’s better to make a reservation once your travel plans are finalized. This is much more convenient than trying to find a reliable option at the last minute upon arriving in Busan.
Q5: Can I still go shopping normally after getting medical beauty treatments?
A: In most cases, patients can resume their normal activities on the same day after the treatment, although their faces may appear slightly red or swollen. Procedures such as basic skin care, hyaluronic acid injections, or microneedling leave almost no visible traces, and a little makeup can help patients go out in public. However, after Thermage or microneedling treatments, the face may stay red for several hours; it is therefore recommended not to schedule any photo shoots on the same day. My own practice is to undergo medical beauty treatments in the morning, return to my homestay in the afternoon to apply a facial mask and rest, and then go out for dinner and shopping in the evening—there’s absolutely enough time for everything.
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The above is my experience sharing regarding my three visits to Busan for medical beauty treatments. Busan is truly underestimated – with the same procedures, the same equipment, and the same technology, the prices are much more affordable compared to Seoul. If you have any other questions, simply click on the reservation link of any of the clinics listed above to contact the BeautsGO customer service; they respond very quickly.
