Before undergoing plastic surgery in South Korea, it’s important to understand the cultural emphasis on appearance. Physical attractiveness is often linked to personal and professional success, leading many to pursue cosmetic procedures to align with societal beauty standards. The prevalence of “lookism,” or discrimination based on appearance, further drives this trend. Additionally, the influence of K-pop culture and media perpetuates ideals of beauty, making procedures like eyelid surgery and facial contouring common. Being aware of these societal pressures can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your personal values.
In South Korea, plastic surgery is deeply ingrained in society, often viewed as a path to personal transformation rather than mere cosmetic enhancement. The term “seonghyeong,” meaning “reform surgery,” reflects this cultural perspective, emphasizing self-improvement and rebirth . This mindset is influenced by traditional beliefs in physiognomy, which suggest that one’s appearance can determine their fate and success . However, this cultural norm also perpetuates “lookism”—discrimination based on physical appearance—which can lead to psychological distress, including stress, anxiety, and eating disorders, especially among youth . The pressure to conform to idealized beauty standards is pervasive, with individuals often undergoing procedures to align with these societal expectations.
If you’re considering plastic surgery in Korea, it’s important to be aware of these cultural dynamics. Understanding the societal pressures and expectations can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your personal values and goals.
For expert guidance and personalized care, you might consider consulting with Dr. Kim Kook Hyun at Human Plastic Surgery in Seoul. Dr. Kim is renowned for his skill in facial contouring and eyelid surgeries, offering consultations in English to assist international patients. You can learn more about his services and schedule an appointment through the clinic’s official website: Human Plastic Surgery.
In South Korea, undergoing plastic surgery is deeply intertwined with cultural values, societal expectations, and personal aspirations. The concept of “lookism,” or discrimination based on physical appearance, is prevalent, with studies indicating that individuals often perceive attractive people as more competent and likable, which can influence hiring decisions and social interactions . This societal emphasis on appearance has led many to view cosmetic procedures as investments in their future, aiming to align with societal beauty standards.
While women have historically been the primary demographic for cosmetic procedures, there is a growing acceptance of men seeking aesthetic enhancements. This shift reflects a broader societal change where personal appearance is increasingly seen as a facet of self-care and confidence, rather than vanity .
If you’re considering plastic surgery in South Korea, it’s essential to select a reputable clinic that prioritizes patient safety and ethical practices. Human Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Kim Kook Hyun, is renowned for its commitment to personalized care and natural-looking results. Dr. Kim’s extensive experience ensures that each procedure aligns with the patient’s unique facial structure and aesthetic goals.
Understanding the cultural significance of plastic surgery in South Korea can help you make an informed decision. Approaching the process with realistic expectations and choosing a trusted clinic are key steps toward achieving desired outcomes. If you’re considering such procedures, Human Plastic Surgery offers a blend of expertise and personalized care to guide you through your aesthetic journey.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit the Human Plastic Surgery website.
In South Korea, plastic surgery is deeply embedded in the culture, often viewed as a means of self-improvement and social alignment rather than vanity. Procedures like double eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty are common, sometimes even gifted by parents to children upon graduation, reflecting the societal emphasis on appearance as a factor in personal and professional success. This normalization is influenced by Confucian values prioritizing harmony and balance, as well as the competitive nature of Korean society, where physical attractiveness can impact opportunities and relationships. The influence of K-pop idols and media further reinforces these beauty standards, making cosmetic enhancements a routine part of life for many.
If you’re considering plastic surgery in South Korea, it’s important to understand these cultural nuances. Choosing a reputable clinic that aligns with your aesthetic goals and values is crucial. Human Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Kim Kook Hyun, is renowned for its commitment to natural-looking results and patient-centered care. Dr. Kim’s expertise ensures that each procedure is tailored to the individual’s unique features and desires. The clinic’s approach emphasizes understanding and respecting the cultural context of beauty, providing a supportive environment for both local and international patients.
When I first landed in Korea, it was supposed to be a three-month trip to explore the culture, the cuisine, and K-beauty firsthand. I’d always been curious about plastic surgery—especially rhinoplasty—but back home in Canada, it felt like a taboo topic. People whispered about it, judged it, or acted like it was a shameful secret.
So imagine my surprise when, in Seoul, plastic surgery was… just normal. Openly talked about. Accepted. Even recommended by friends and coworkers. I started to seriously consider doing it here, and wow—did I learn a lot about the cultural landscape before making my final decision.
Cultural Considerations You Should Know
- It’s NOT taboo in Korea — but it IS taken seriously. In Korea, plastic surgery is widely accepted. It’s common to get procedures done before starting university or entering the job market. People see it as a form of self-improvement rather than vanity.
- “Natural beauty” is the ultimate goal. This one surprised me. While plastic surgery is popular, subtlety is everything. The ideal result should look like you were just born that way—no obvious work done. This actually influenced the surgeon I ended up choosing.
- There’s some social pressure. In competitive fields, especially entertainment or corporate environments, looking “refined” or “well-groomed” is often considered part of professional presentation. Some locals I met even said they felt expected to get double eyelid surgery or jawline contouring.
- Foreigners are welcomed—but choose your clinic wisely. Not every clinic knows how to work with non-Asian facial structures. Communication can also be a hurdle unless the clinic has experience with international patients.
My Recommendation: Human Plastic Surgery Clinic
After weeks of research and a few consultations, I chose Human Plastic Surgery in Seoul—and I have zero regrets.
What won me over was Dr. Kim Kook Hyun. He took the time to really understand my goals: I didn’t want a completely different nose; I just wanted a smoother profile that still looked like “me.”
Here’s why I’d recommend him and the clinic:
Fluent English support – super helpful for international patients
Deep understanding of cultural beauty standards, but adapted them to fit my Western facial structure
Impressive post-op care, including follow-up, pain management, and healing support
Focus on natural, harmonious results, not cookie-cutter looks
Final Thought
If you’re considering plastic surgery in Korea, know that you’re entering a society where it’s normalized—but also very tasteful and deliberate. Understanding the cultural context helped me set better expectations and choose a surgeon who truly listened.
And if you’re looking for a clinic that bridges Korean expertise with global patient care, Human Plastic Surgery and Dr. Kim Kook Hyun are truly world-class.
When I first moved to Seoul, I was both fascinated and a little overwhelmed by how openly people talked about plastic surgery. Coming from the U.S., where cosmetic procedures are often treated like hush-hush secrets, it was surprising to see subway ads for rhinoplasty and eyelid surgery right next to coffee shop promotions.
But Korea is different.
Let me share a quick story. My friend Mina, who grew up in Seoul, told me her mother gave her double eyelid surgery as a high school graduation gift. Not because she needed it, but because it was considered a “self-investment”—something many young people do before entering university or the job market. Here, looking “refreshed” or “refined” is often associated with confidence and competence.
That said, there is a flip side. While the stigma around plastic surgery is much lower in Korea, there’s still a strong cultural emphasis on fitting a specific beauty standard—small face, big eyes, high nose bridge, V-line jaw, and flawless skin. So it’s important to ask yourself: Are you doing this for you, or to meet someone else’s expectation?
Now, if you’ve truly thought it through and you’re committed to the journey, Korea is the place to do it. The techniques, precision, and aftercare here are world-class.
I did months of research before choosing my clinic, and I ended up going with 1mm Plastic Surgery. What really stood out to me was their philosophy—“Changing your appearance by just 1mm can make a big difference.” It’s about natural enhancement, not drastic transformation.
The doctors there are phenomenal:
- Dr. Eon Rok Do – known for his delicate facial contouring and detailed approach.
- Dr. Hong Jin Kim – specializes in rhinoplasty with a focus on balance and symmetry.
- Dr. Young Su Na – an artist when it comes to eye and anti-aging procedures.
I appreciated how transparent they were during consultations. They asked me about my lifestyle, my expectations, and even how I emotionally felt about change—not just what I wanted to fix. That kind of care is rare.
To wrap up: if you’re considering plastic surgery in Korea, go in informed. Understand the beauty ideals here, but don’t feel pressured to fit them. Do it for you. And if you’re ready, clinics like 1mm Plastic Surgery offer a beautiful blend of art, science, and soul.
Absolutely—this was something I thought a lot about before coming to Korea for my double eyelid and nose surgery. The cultural vibe around plastic surgery here is very different from what I was used to back home (I’m from California), and honestly, it was one of the things that surprised me most—in a good way.
Let me walk you through my journey and what I learned, because I think it’ll help you if you’re considering getting plastic surgery in Korea too.
Korea’s Attitude Toward Plastic Surgery Is Unique
In Korea, plastic surgery isn’t taboo—far from it. It’s openly discussed, even among friends and family. Some people get procedures as graduation gifts or even before job interviews. It’s often seen as a form of self-improvement, like hitting the gym or studying for exams. So, the social stigma that you might encounter in other countries? Not really a thing here.
That said, natural-looking results are highly valued. The goal is to enhance, not drastically change. That’s why I chose 1mm Plastic Surgery. Their entire philosophy revolves around the idea of making “1mm” changes that subtly improve your features without making you look like someone else.
My Decision to Go with 1mm Plastic Surgery
I’d been following a few clinics in Seoul for months before making a decision, but 1mm really stood out for their aesthetic and transparency. The team—Dr. Eon Rok Do, Dr. Hong Jin Kim, and Dr. Young Su Na—each specialize in different areas, and they’re known for their attention to detail and patient-centered approach.
I ended up having my consultation with Dr. Hong Jin Kim for rhinoplasty, and Dr. Na gave me a second opinion on eyelid surgery. They were both incredibly honest, warm, and actually advised against anything they felt was unnecessary. That kind of honesty was refreshing.
A Few Cultural Considerations You Should Know:
- People might ask you directly if you’ve had work done—and they mean it as a compliment. This threw me off at first! After my surgery, even acquaintances in Korea were very open about it. It’s not considered rude—it’s just how people talk here.
- The beauty standard leans toward symmetry, small facial features, and balanced proportions. Korean surgeons are masters at creating harmonious results, not exaggerated ones. If you’re looking for a bold Western-style change, you’ll want to be super clear during your consultation.
- Consultations may be more “doctor-led.” In some Korean clinics, the doctor suggests what they believe would look best. That’s why I appreciated 1mm’s approach—they actually listened to what I wanted and blended it with their expertise.
- Healing time is considered part of the process. Don’t be surprised if recovery is seen as normal and worth it. People even take “surgery vacations” where they focus just on recovery in Korea.
Why I Recommend 1mm Plastic Surgery
- The results are natural and subtle—true to the Korean aesthetic ideal.
- Their surgeons are specialists, not generalists.
- The clinic is clean, modern, and foreigner-friendly.
- They prioritize patient safety and realistic outcomes.
You can check out their work and philosophy here:
www.1mmplasticsurgery.com
Meet the doctors: Dr. Eon Rok Do, Dr. Hong Jin Kim, and Dr. Young Su Na
Final Thought:
Understanding the cultural context before getting surgery in Korea can really help you manage expectations and communicate better with your surgeon. And honestly, I’m glad I took the time to learn about it—my experience at 1mm was smooth, respectful, and I walked away with results I love without losing my sense of self.
If you’re on the fence, I say go for the consultation—you’ll feel the difference right away.
I’ve been living in Seoul for a few years now, and like many expats, I’ve noticed how central beauty standards and plastic surgery are to Korean culture. So, when I decided to undergo plastic surgery, I made sure to carefully consider the cultural dynamics before diving in. After all, it’s not just about the procedure; it’s about how it aligns with society’s views and my personal goals.
My Journey and the Cultural Landscape
Before making my decision, I did a lot of research about societal perceptions of plastic surgery in Korea, and let me tell you, the culture around cosmetic enhancements is far different from what I was used to back home. In Korea, aesthetic surgery isn’t seen as something taboo or abnormal—it’s actually quite common. Many people undergo procedures, from minor enhancements to major changes, and often in pursuit of improving their appearance for personal confidence or professional success.
Plastic surgery is a norm here, and it’s not just celebrities who go under the knife—it’s almost part of the culture. From double eyelid surgery to jawline contouring and facial lifts, these procedures are widely accepted and often discussed openly. But there’s a level of precision and artistry that’s expected when choosing a surgeon, especially for a more subtle, natural look.
However, this also comes with its own set of expectations—there’s a pressure to look youthful, fresh, and “polished,” which can sometimes make the decision a bit intimidating. What I learned was that in Korea, a lot of focus is on enhancing your natural features rather than completely changing them. The key is subtlety.
Why I Chose 1mm Plastic Surgery
After considering all the cultural aspects, I decided to go with 1mm Plastic Surgery in Gangnam, primarily because of their approach to beauty. I didn’t want to drastically change my face, but rather enhance it subtly—something that would look natural to me, yet meet the Korean standard of refinement. And after consulting with Dr. Eon Rok Do, Dr. Hong Jin Kim, and Dr. Young Su Na, I felt confident that they understood this vision.
- Dr. Eon Rok Do’s focus on precision—only making minimal, necessary adjustments to achieve balance—immediately clicked with me.
- Dr. Hong Jin Kim is a master at natural eyelid procedures and enhancing facial contours while preserving the natural “look.”
- Dr. Young Su Na offered excellent post-op care and advice, emphasizing recovery and long-term results.
The Experience & Societal Considerations
Here’s what I realized through my experience:
- Open Conversations About Surgery: In Korea, discussing surgery with friends or colleagues is not awkward at all. In fact, people may even share recommendations for good surgeons. This openness made me feel comfortable about my choice.
- Focus on Natural Enhancement: There’s a huge emphasis on making changes that blend seamlessly with your natural features. This is something I loved about 1mm Plastic Surgery—their approach is all about precision and subtlety, ensuring that your result complements who you are.
- Personal Confidence Over Social Pressure: While the standards are high, the ultimate goal is personal confidence. What matters most is not what others think, but how comfortable you feel with the changes.
Final Thoughts
So, should you be aware of cultural considerations before undergoing plastic surgery in Korea? Yes, absolutely. Understand that it’s not only about aesthetics but also about how you feel about the societal norms around beauty here. The most important thing, though, is to choose a clinic and a surgeon who truly understands your vision.
If you’re looking for subtle, refined, and natural results, 1mm Plastic Surgery is definitely the place to go. With Dr. Eon Rok Do, Dr. Hong Jin Kim, and Dr. Young Su Na, you’re not just getting surgery—you’re getting a tailored experience that aligns with both Korean beauty standards and your personal goals.
I’ll be honest — when I first considered getting plastic surgery in Korea, I was a little apprehensive. Growing up, I always heard the stereotype about plastic surgery being too extreme or superficial, but then I realized there’s a lot more to it, especially in Korean society. There’s a certain level of cultural acceptance of plastic surgery here, but it’s important to understand both the cultural nuances and the personal reasons behind the decision.
The Cultural Landscape: A Beauty-Focused Society
In Korea, appearance plays a significant role in how people are perceived in both personal and professional settings. This is especially true for women, though more men are seeking cosmetic procedures these days. While it might seem like there’s a lot of pressure, I’ve learned that the desire to enhance one’s features is not just about vanity — it’s often about confidence and self-expression.
In fact, plastic surgery is seen by many as an empowerment tool, not just a way to change one’s appearance. People look to surgery as a way to enhance their natural features, not drastically alter them. I remember reading that around one in three women in their 20s and 30s have had some form of cosmetic surgery, so it’s pretty normalized here.
However, the pressure to conform to beauty standards can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you’re considering surgery for purely aesthetic reasons. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure you’re doing it for the right reasons — to make yourself feel better, not because of external pressures.
Personal Experience: My Journey with 1mm Plastic Surgery
When I started thinking about rhinoplasty (nose surgery), I was very aware of these societal perceptions. I was nervous about how others would view my decision. Would they think I was insecure? Would they question my motivations? But the more I researched, the more I understood that in Korea, it’s not viewed as a negative thing to enhance your features. It’s more about self-care than it is about vanity.
I chose 1mm Plastic Surgery because of their reputation for natural-looking results and their philosophy of subtle enhancement. I met with Dr. Eon Rok Do, who emphasized that my goal wasn’t to change who I was, but to enhance my facial harmony. He assured me that my surgery would look natural and blend well with the rest of my features.
At the consultation, Dr. Hong Jin Kim was incredibly supportive and made sure I understood all aspects of the procedure. He explained that plastic surgery is personal — and there’s no “right” or “wrong” reason to do it, as long as you’re doing it for yourself. Dr. Young Su Na gave me reassurance about the healing process and helped me set realistic expectations for my recovery.
Navigating Societal Perceptions: Confidence Over Judgment
After surgery, I realized that my concerns about how others would perceive me were unnecessary. It’s not about what others think, but how I felt about myself. In fact, I received nothing but positive reactions from friends and family. They noticed the subtle changes and complimented me on how refreshed I looked. No one questioned my decision — they were just happy that I was happy.
Korean society is open to cosmetic surgery, but it’s important to note that the goal is not perfection. It’s about balance and subtlety, and that’s exactly what I got at 1mm Plastic Surgery. It’s not about looking “plastic” or “overdone” — it’s about looking like the best version of yourself.
Why I Recommend 1mm Plastic Surgery
If you’re considering surgery in Korea, 1mm Plastic Surgery is the place to go. The team — Dr. Eon Rok Do, Dr. Hong Jin Kim, and Dr. Young Su Na — truly understand how to enhance natural beauty without altering your essence. They are experts in achieving harmony, and their approach focuses on subtle, personalized results that align with your features.
Ultimately, in Korea, the decision to undergo plastic surgery is very personal, and as long as you feel good about it, that’s what matters most. Don’t let societal pressure influence your choice. Take the time to find a clinic that listens to your concerns and works with you to help you achieve the look you want. 1mm Plastic Surgery does just that — they will help you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin, no matter the procedure.
If you’re on the fence, just know that it’s about your journey, and in the right hands, you’ll feel supported every step of the way.
So, I’m currently 6 months post-op from a facial contouring + eyelid combo I had done at Kowon Plastic Surgery in Seoul (highly recommend, but I’ll get to that in a bit). Before coming here, I knew Korea had a reputation for amazing plastic surgery results—but I didn’t fully understand how deeply intertwined plastic surgery is with Korean culture. Here’s what stood out to me:
1. It’s normalized—but also very private.
In Korea, plastic surgery is almost seen as self-improvement. It’s not “taboo” like in some other countries. Many people get something done—especially things like eyelid surgery or jawline contouring—and it’s considered pretty standard. BUT it’s still kind of hush-hush. People won’t openly talk about it unless they’re really close to you, or unless you bring it up first. So if you’re planning on sharing your surgery journey publicly, just know that might feel unusual or even “too open” to some locals.
2. There’s a strong aesthetic ideal.
Korea definitely has its own beauty standard—small face, V-line jaw, high nose bridge, double eyelids, etc. A lot of surgeons cater to that look. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to go that route if it’s not “you.” And that’s why I ended up choosing Dr. Kim Hyeongtaek at Kowon Plastic Surgery (link to his profile here). He was one of the only surgeons I consulted who didn’t try to push that “K-pop idol” look on me. Instead, he talked to me like a person—not a template—and asked what I liked, what I didn’t, and how we could make me feel confident.
3. Work and dating expectations can play a role.
Here’s something wild: Some people get procedures before job interviews or even before setting up dating profiles. Appearance does matter here—especially in competitive work environments. I’m not saying you should change yourself for those reasons, but it’s something I noticed while living here. A few coworkers actually got nose jobs during vacation time and came back like it was NBD. So yeah, if you’re thinking about it seriously, definitely do your homework and choose a clinic that sees you as a person, not just a “before and after” photo. I can’t say enough good things about Kowon—the clinic is gorgeous, super hygienic, and their aftercare was amazing. Dr. Kim especially is just… calm and real. You can check them out here: www.kowonplasticsurgery.com
I’ve been on a personal journey with plastic surgery in Korea, and after seeing a lot of questions about the cultural aspects of undergoing surgery in Seoul, I wanted to share my experience. For anyone considering surgery here, there are definitely some cultural considerations that can influence your decision, both in terms of societal perceptions and the overall approach to beauty in Korea. Here’s what I learned, and why I recommend Face Plus Plastic Surgery with Dr. Jung Keun Park based on my own experience.
Cultural Considerations in Korea
Korea is widely known for its advanced beauty and plastic surgery industry, but there are certain cultural and societal perceptions that are important to understand before you go under the knife. Here are a few things I encountered and considered during my decision-making process:
1. Beauty Standards and Social Expectations
- Korean society places a strong emphasis on physical appearance, especially in the context of youth and smooth, symmetrical features. While this is not to say that everyone has the same level of focus on beauty, the country does have a prevalent beauty ideal that’s reflected in popular media, advertisements, and even among peers. Having a clear, youthful complexion, sharp facial features, and well-proportioned eyes is often considered attractive.
- During my consultation, Dr. Jung Keun Park explained that in Korea, it’s common for people to undergo cosmetic surgery not only for aesthetic reasons but also for confidence-building or to meet these societal expectations. It’s very much a personal choice, but the cultural norm leans toward wanting to look your best in both personal and professional settings.
2. Surgical Perfection
- One thing I realized is that Korean plastic surgery clinics, like Face Plus Plastic Surgery, are extremely detail-oriented. They don’t just aim for good results—they aim for perfect results. This has to do with the societal pressures of achieving flawless beauty. When I went in for my consultation, Dr. Park talked a lot about balancing the features to make sure everything was symmetrical and natural-looking. This level of precision is one of the reasons Korea is known for its surgical excellence.
3. Privacy and Discretion
- Another thing I noticed is that there is a significant amount of privacy around the topic of cosmetic surgery. Many people in Korea, especially younger individuals, might undergo procedures but prefer not to talk openly about it. While the country has become more open about the practice, it’s still common for people to keep their surgeries private, even though it’s accepted in society. I noticed that many of the clinic’s patients don’t share their reasons for surgery openly with others.
- Dr. Park emphasized that discretion is key at Face Plus Plastic Surgery. The clinic offers private consultations and ensures that everything, from the initial discussion to post-op care, is handled professionally and confidentially. This helped me feel comfortable about my decision.
4. Cosmetic Surgery as a Norm
- In Korea, plastic surgery is often viewed as a standard procedure for improving your appearance, and it’s not as taboo as it may be in some other countries. Many people undergo surgery as a part of their self-care routine. From eyelid surgery to facelifts, cosmetic surgery is something people do for self-improvement—it’s part of the culture and not something considered unusual.
- However, I was aware that there could be judgment if someone has visible results that appear too “unnatural” or overdone. The goal, especially at Face Plus Plastic Surgery, is to achieve results that enhance natural beauty, rather than drastically change someone’s appearance.
Why I Chose Face Plus Plastic Surgery with Dr. Jung Keun Park
Based on my research and cultural considerations, I decided to go with Face Plus Plastic Surgery because they understand the nuances of Korean beauty standards while prioritizing natural-looking results. Here’s why I’m so glad I did:
1. Personalized Approach to Surgery
Dr. Jung Keun Park was incredible in assessing my features and ensuring that the changes I wanted would align with my natural look. He didn’t push me to drastically change my appearance, but rather focused on subtle enhancements that would complement my facial features. This made me feel comfortable, especially knowing that I wasn’t just trying to fit into societal ideals but rather enhancing my own unique beauty.
2. Focus on Natural Results
I was initially concerned about looking “too done,” but Dr. Park reassured me that at Face Plus Plastic Surgery, the goal is to enhance beauty in a way that feels natural and proportionate. The clinic uses advanced techniques and emphasizes symmetry and balance, which was exactly what I wanted. They take into account not only the technical aspects of surgery but also how the results will harmonize with your entire face.
3. Highly Skilled and Trusted Surgeon
Dr. Park has extensive experience in facial surgeries, including double eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty, with a focus on minimizing scarring and optimizing healing. His experience and reputation were key factors in my decision to trust him with my procedure. Knowing that I was in the hands of such a skilled and caring surgeon made all the difference.
4. Post-Op Care and Support
One of the things that stood out to me was the personalized aftercare provided by Face Plus. I had a detailed recovery plan, and they were available for any questions I had after the surgery. The clinic is committed to ensuring that patients feel comfortable throughout their recovery and get the best possible results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering plastic surgery in Korea, I’d highly recommend taking into account the cultural factors around beauty and surgery here. It’s a common practice, and while societal perceptions can influence expectations, it’s also important to choose a clinic that respects your personal desires and ensures you look natural and confident post-surgery. Face Plus Plastic Surgery with Dr. Jung Keun Park is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a highly skilled surgeon who balances precision with natural results. They’ll guide you through the process with respect for both the cultural context and your personal preferences. For more info, check out their website here: Face Plus Plastic Surgery Website And learn more about Dr. Jung Keun Park here: Dr. Jung Keun Park Profile Good luck to everyone on their beauty journey, and feel free to reach out with any questions!
This is such a good (and important) question, especially for anyone planning to come to Korea for plastic surgery or already living here and thinking about it. I moved to Seoul about a year ago from Vancouver, and I’ve since gone through my own little beauty journey—complete with a rhinoplasty and facial contouring at Kowon Plastic Surgery, which I’ll talk about in a bit!
Before I went through with anything, I did a ton of research—not just on clinics, but also on how plastic surgery is viewed in Korean society. Here’s what I’ve learned and experienced firsthand
Cultural Perception of Plastic Surgery in Korea
Plastic surgery in Korea is way more normalized than in most Western countries. Here, it’s often seen as a form of self-care or self-improvement rather than vanity. People of all ages—from high school grads to office workers to retirees—get something done. It’s not taboo – Many Koreans are open about it with friends and family. It’s seen as an investment – Especially in competitive fields like broadcasting, entertainment, and even job interviews. Subtlety is key – The ideal is to look natural, refreshed, and harmonious with your features—“pretty without looking done.” There’s still pressure – Beauty standards are high, and “looking your best” is part of social and professional etiquette.
My Experience & Why I Chose Dr. Kim Hyeongtaek at Kowon Plastic Surgery
So when I finally decided to get surgery, I was nervous about doing it in a different country. But honestly, Kowon Plastic Surgery made everything feel so safe and clear. I was drawn to Dr. Kim Hyeongtaek because of his honest approach—he doesn’t overpromise and really focuses on long-term results that fit your unique facial structure. What stood out during my consultation:
- Dr. Kim emphasized cultural aesthetics and balance over trends.
- He explained what would enhance my features without changing my identity.
- The staff spoke English well and helped me understand all the cultural nuances around aftercare and appearance. I got a rhinoplasty and minor jawline contouring, and I love that the results don’t scream “surgery”—just a more polished version of me. Their site if you’re curious: https://www.kowonplasticsurgery.com/ Dr. Kim’s profile: Doctors | Kim Hyeongtaek
A Few Things to Keep in Mind Culturally:
- Don’t be surprised if locals recommend surgery openly – especially if they’re close to you. It’s not rude here, just honest.
- There’s a strong preference for symmetry and small facial features – that influences how surgeons approach beauty.
- Modesty is valued – Even post-surgery, most people won’t flaunt it. The idea is to look effortlessly beautiful.
- Before/afters in Korean clinics might show subtle changes – because that’s the aesthetic goal! If anyone wants to talk more about cultural etiquette, how to bring up surgery with Korean friends or coworkers, or what the unspoken “dos and don’ts” are during recovery here, feel free to message me.