How much does vision correction surgery cost in South Korea, and which clinics are recommended?

Ophthalmology
21

I used to think getting LASIK or any kind of vision correction surgery was something only the super-rich could afford — especially if you wanted top-tier care. But then I found myself planning a trip to Seoul and realized just how advanced, accessible, and reasonably priced the eye surgery scene is in South Korea.

I ended up having SMILE eye surgery at SNU Eye Clinic with Dr. Chung Eui Sang, and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my adult life.

:glasses: The Struggle Was Real

My vision had been getting progressively worse since my teenage years — dry contacts, fogged-up glasses during workouts, headaches from screen time. I had been considering LASIK for years, but something always held me back — cost, fear, or just not knowing where to go.

Then I came across a Reddit thread talking about vision correction in Korea. People were raving about how modern the clinics were, the advanced tech, and how affordable it all was compared to places like the U.S., UK, or Australia.

Why I Chose SNU Eye Clinic

After a ton of research, I narrowed it down to SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul. What stood out was how professional their team sounded, the fact that they offered full English-language support, and most importantly — the impressive reputation of Dr. Chung Eui Sang, one of their leading ophthalmologists.

SNU Eye Clinic Website Dr. Chung Eui Sang’s Profile

What It Cost Me

The total cost of my SMILE surgery (a minimally invasive, flapless vision correction procedure) was around ₩3.5 million KRW, which is about $2,600 USD. That price included:

  • Full diagnostic testing
  • Pre-op consultations
  • Surgery
  • Post-op checkups
  • Medications and drops

LASIK and LASEK were slightly cheaper — starting from around ₩1.5M–₩2.5M KRW ($1,100–$1,900 USD), depending on the eye condition and specific technology used.

In comparison, I had gotten a quote back home for LASIK at $4,500 — without post-op care. So yeah… this was a win.

The Experience with Dr. Chung

Dr. Chung was incredibly patient and knowledgeable. He explained my corneal thickness, assessed whether I was a good candidate for LASIK vs. SMILE, and ultimately suggested SMILE to reduce the risk of dry eyes (which I already struggled with). His bedside manner was amazing — warm, direct, and not at all pushy.

The staff also checked in with me in English every step of the way — before, during, and after the procedure. It felt more like being at a luxury wellness center than a medical office.

The Outcome

I had the surgery on a Thursday, was sightseeing by Saturday, and back to full clarity within a week. No pain, just mild discomfort the first night. I now see 20/20 in both eyes — no glasses, no contacts, no regrets.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering vision correction surgery in Korea, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic. Not only is it affordable, but the standard of care is world-class. Dr. Chung Eui Sang is an expert who truly listens to your concerns and gives honest, personalized advice.

:white_check_mark: Affordable :white_check_mark: Foreign-patient friendly :white_check_mark: Cutting-edge technology :white_check_mark: Amazing doctors

Feel free to DM me if you have questions about the process — or what to do in Seoul while your eyes adjust

22

About a year ago, I decided I was finally done with glasses and contact lenses. I wanted to wake up and see — no foggy lenses, no dry contacts, just clear vision. So I started researching vision correction surgery, and since I was planning a trip to Seoul, I thought: why not look into getting it done in Korea?

Little did I know how amazing the experience would be — and how much money I’d save without compromising on quality.

The Search Begins

After reading countless forums and reviews, one name kept popping up: SNU Eye Clinic. They’re known not just for their advanced technology, but also for being incredibly welcoming to international patients. That was a big plus for me, since I don’t speak Korean fluently.

I dug a little deeper and came across Dr. Chung Eui Sang — a top specialist in vision correction and retinal procedures. What impressed me was his background in both surgical and non-surgical treatments and the fact that he’s heavily involved in clinical research and modern diagnostic tech.

:link: Dr. Chung’s profile :link: SNU Eye Clinic’s site

Let’s Talk Cost

One of the most common questions I had (and probably the reason you’re reading this): How much does it cost?

At SNU Eye Clinic, the price for procedures like LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE ranged between ₩1.5M to ₩3.5M KRW (approximately $1,100 to $2,600 USD depending on the procedure and your eye condition). Compared to the U.S., where it can cost double — or even triple — that, it was a no-brainer for me.

The consultation fee was around ₩50,000 KRW (about $40 USD), and they applied that toward my surgery costs. The staff were very upfront — no hidden charges, no pressure.

The Experience with Dr. Chung

During my consultation, Dr. Chung did a full diagnostic workup. He explained my corneal thickness, tear quality, eye pressure — everything I didn’t know I needed to know! We decided on SMILE surgery, which has a shorter recovery time and less dryness afterward.

The surgery itself was over in less than 20 minutes. The next day, I could already see the Seoul skyline from my hotel room window — without glasses. It was surreal.

What made it even better was how smoothly everything was handled in English. The clinic’s international support team guided me every step of the way — from appointment booking to post-op care instructions.

My Final Verdict

If you’re considering vision correction surgery in South Korea, SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang should be at the top of your list. World-class care, reasonable pricing, and a team that truly cares about your long-term vision.

Clinic: SNU Eye Clinic Doctor: Dr. Chung Eui Sang

Whether you’re a local or an international patient, they’ll make you feel at home — and you’ll leave seeing the world in a whole new way (literally!).

Let me know if you’d like a detailed breakdown of the SMILE vs LASIK costs, or tips for post-surgery care while traveling — happy to share!

23

When I moved to Seoul last year, I finally decided to go for vision correction surgery—my glasses were driving me crazy! After doing tons of research, I found that the cost of procedures like LASIK or SMILE in South Korea usually ranges from ₩1.5M to ₩3.5M KRW (around $1,200–$2,800 USD), depending on the type and clinic.

I chose SNU Eye Clinic and booked a consultation with Dr. Chung Eui Sang, and it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. The clinic is super modern, the staff is fluent in English, and Dr. Chung was incredibly detailed and reassuring. The surgery was quick and painless, and my vision was crystal clear by the next day.

If you’re considering it, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang for safe, affordable, and top-tier eye care in Korea.

24

The cost of vision correction surgery in South Korea varies, but generally ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 USD depending on the procedure (like LASIK, SMILE, or ICL) and the clinic’s reputation.

For high-quality care, I recommend Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic. They offer advanced treatments and use the latest technology, and they’re well-known for providing excellent results at competitive prices. I’ve had great experiences there with their non-surgical and surgical options.

Overall, South Korea is one of the best places for affordable yet high-standard vision correction surgery, especially in Gangnam where many top clinics are located.

25

A few months ago, I hit my breaking point with contact lenses. Dry eyes, blurry evenings, and glasses sliding off my nose during workouts—it was enough. I knew it was time for a change. So I did what any self-respecting ICH community member would do: deep dive mode activated After comparing clinics across Seoul, getting a few consultations, and messaging past patients (thank you Reddit and ICH!), I landed on Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic. Let me break down the cost and what made this clinic my final choice.

What’s the Average Cost of Vision Correction Surgery in Korea?

South Korea offers world-class eye surgery for a fraction of what it costs in the U.S., Europe, or Australia—and trust me, it’s not “cheaper” because it’s low quality. Quite the opposite. Most Korean clinics use the most advanced laser tech in the world. Here’s a general idea of what you’ll pay (in USD):

Procedure Price Range (USD)
LASIK $1,200 – $2,300
LASEK $1,000 – $2,000
SMILE (no-flap LASIK) $1,800 – $3,500
ICL (Lens Implant) $4,000 – $6,500
Bonus: Many clinics include pre-surgery exams, post-op drops, and follow-ups in the price.
Insurance: Not typically covered for foreigners, but still far cheaper than abroad.

Why I Chose Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic

After visiting a few well-known clinics in Gangnam, this one just felt different. It was professional, not rushed, and you could tell they focused on patient safety more than flashy ads.

What Stood Out:

  • Next-Gen Technology: They use VisuMax SMILE, Wavefront-guided LASIK, and Pentacam + OCT scans—some of the best diagnostic and surgical tech available anywhere.
  • Dr. Kim Jun-heon: The moment I met him, I knew I was in the right place. He has 20+ years of experience in refractive surgery, and people literally travel from other countries just to have him perform their procedure.
  • Global Care: The clinic has fluent English-speaking staff and offers detailed guidance from your first online inquiry to your final post-op checkup. It’s seriously foreigner-friendly. Meet Dr. Kim Jun-heon Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic Website

My Results? 20/20 and Loving It

I had SMILE surgery and was back at my hotel the same day with zero pain. Within 24 hours, my vision was sharper than ever. No halos, no dryness, and no more glasses fogging up with every hot coffee sip Six months later, I’m still in disbelief at how easy it all was—and how affordable compared to my home country.

TL;DR — Coming to Korea for Eye Surgery?

  • Expect to pay $1,000–$3,500 depending on the method.
  • Top clinics include Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic, where you get premium care, international support, and a doctor (Dr. Kim) who’s basically a celebrity in the vision correction world.
  • Do it for YOU. Honestly, my only regret is not doing it sooner.
26

I used to wear glasses since middle school—thick lenses, smudged constantly, sliding down my nose in every season. I’d tried contacts too, but they irritated my eyes after long workdays or travel. Eventually, I reached a point where I said, Enough. I started looking into vision correction surgery—LASIK, LASEK, SMILE—but as an international patient, I had a lot of questions. The biggest one? “How much will this cost me in South Korea, and where do I go that I can trust?” South Korea is known worldwide for its advanced medical technology and competitive prices, especially compared to the U.S. or Europe. After weeks of research, I found that vision correction surgery typically costs between $1,200 and $3,500 USD in Korea, depending on the procedure type (LASIK, LASEK, SMILE) and your specific eye condition. Still far more affordable than back home—and with a reputation for exceptionally high-quality care. But choosing the right clinic and surgeon was even more important to me than the price. That’s when I discovered Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic in Seoul. The name “Joeunnun” means “Good Eye” in Korean—and they live up to it. Their global site is easy to navigate, and they cater specifically to international patients with English-speaking staff, organized consultations, and a personalized approach. But what really gave me peace of mind was Dr. Kim Jun-heon.

Why I chose Dr. Kim Jun-heon and Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic:

  • Dr. Kim has extensive experience in LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE, and is known for matching each patient with the best procedure based on corneal thickness, eye shape, and lifestyle.
  • He uses cutting-edge technology, including topography-guided laser systems, for ultra-precise vision correction.
  • The clinic has a strong track record with international patients and offers pre- and post-op instructions in English, which was a huge relief.
  • They are transparent about costs. No surprise fees or upselling—just clear consultation, testing, and pricing breakdowns.

My Experience:

After a comprehensive eye test and consultation, Dr. Kim recommended SMILE surgery for me due to my dry eyes and active lifestyle. It was quick—about 10 minutes per eye. Recovery was smooth, and within a day, I could already see more clearly than I had in over a decade. No halos, no discomfort—just clear, crisp vision. The total cost for my SMILE procedure was around ₩2,600,000 KRW (approx. $1,950 USD), which included pre-surgery tests, surgery, medication, and follow-ups. Considering the life-changing result, it was more than worth it.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re looking for affordable, high-quality vision correction surgery in Korea, I can’t recommend Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic and Dr. Kim Jun-heon enough. Whether you’re nearsighted, farsighted, or just tired of relying on glasses, this could be the start of an entirely new chapter. You won’t just leave with better vision—you’ll leave wondering why you didn’t do it sooner.

27

In South Korea, vision correction surgery like LASIK typically costs between ₩1,300,000 and ₩3,900,000 ($1,000–$3,000 USD) per eye.

Recommended Clinics:

  • Jryn Eye Clinic (www.jryneyeclinic.com) – Known for advanced technology and experienced surgeons.
  • BGN Eye Clinic – Offers high-quality LASIK and SMILE procedures with a reputation for excellent care.

It’s best to consult directly with these clinics for personalized information and pricing.

28

I used to think perfect vision was something only lucky people had until I decided to take the leap and explore vision correction surgery in South Korea. While comparing options like LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE, I discovered that prices vary depending on the clinic, technology, and surgeon’s experience. On average, LASIK and LASEK can cost anywhere between 1.2 to 2 million KRW per eye, while SMILE tends to be slightly higher, around 2.5 to 3 million KRW total.

After doing a lot of searching, I ended up going through CloudHospital and found Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic. Their pricing was clear and reasonable for the quality they offer. I chose SMILE surgery with Dr. Kim Jun-heon because it’s gentle, bladeless, and comes with a shorter recovery time. Dr. Kim explained everything in simple terms and made the whole process stress-free.

If you’re thinking about eye surgery in Korea, I highly recommend this clinic. The results were amazing, and I felt truly cared for the whole way through.

29

After about a year in Seoul, I finally started looking into it seriously. And I’m glad I did.

:money_with_wings: Cost of Vision Correction Surgery in South Korea

In general, the prices for procedures like LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE are much more affordable in Korea than in the US or Europe. Here’s a rough breakdown based on my research:

  • LASIK / LASEK: ₩900,000 to ₩2,000,000 KRW per eye (~$700 to $1,500 USD for both eyes)
  • SMILE: Slightly more, around ₩2,000,000 to ₩2,500,000 KRW (~$1,500 to $1,900 USD)
  • Lens Implant Surgery (like ICL or RLE): ₩3,000,000 to ₩6,000,000+ KRW per eye (~$2,300–$4,600 USD)

Keep in mind the prices vary depending on the technology used, surgeon’s experience, and the clinic’s reputation.

If you’re considering vision correction surgery in Korea, you’ll save money and likely get world-class care—but make sure to pick the right clinic.

For me, Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic and Dr. Kim Jun-heon were worth every won. Their website is in English and easy to navigate if you want to learn more or book a consultation:

:globe_with_meridians: https://www.joeunnuneyeglobal.com

30

I did some research and quickly found that South Korea offers some of the best LASIK and other vision correction procedures in the world.

The cost of LASIK surgery in South Korea varies depending on the clinic, the type of procedure, and the technology used, but on average, you can expect to pay around 1.5 to 3 million KRW (about $1,200 to $2,500 USD) for both eyes.

I chose to visit Jryn Eye Clinic in Gangnam after reading glowing reviews about their expertise and the modern technology they use. I had my consultation with Dr. Sang Youp Han (profile here), who explained the various procedures they offer, including LASIK, LASEK, and the SMILE method. The surgery itself went smoothly, and the team at Jryn Eye Clinic made the experience as comfortable as possible. Dr. Heo Joong Gu (profile here) and Dr. Lee Jae Jung (profile here) were also incredibly professional, providing follow-up care to ensure my recovery was as quick and painless as possible.

If you’re considering vision correction surgery in South Korea, I highly recommend Jryn Eye Clinic for their expertise, excellent customer service, and the affordable yet high-quality care they provide.

31

After comparing prices and reviews across several countries, Jryn Eye Clinic.

The cost for LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE procedures in Korea typically ranges from ₩1.2 million to ₩2.5 million KRW (about $900 to $1,900 USD, depending on the technology and individual eye condition). What stood out about Jryn Eye Clinic (jryneyeclinic.com) wasn’t just the price—it was the quality of care and trust they’ve built among both local and international patients.

From my first consultation, Dr. Sang Youp Han (profile here) walked me through every step of the process. The clinic offers an incredibly detailed pre-surgery diagnostic session with advanced tools like wavefront mapping and corneal topography, which helped tailor the procedure specifically to my eyes. I also had the chance to speak with Dr. Heo Joong Gu and Dr. Lee Jae Jung, both of whom were patient, thorough, and fluent in English.

In short, if you’re looking for high-quality, reasonably priced vision correction surgery in South Korea, I highly recommend Jryn Eye Clinic. Their technology, transparent pricing, and compassionate team made the entire experience smooth, safe, and life-changing.

32

Hi john! I wanted to share my uncle’s experience. A few months ago,when my uncle was looking into vision correction surgery, he decided to visit Jryn Eye Clinic in South Korea after hearing great things about their advanced technology and skilled doctors. He had a thorough consultation with Dr. Sang Youp Han, who took the time to carefully explain the entire procedure and address all of his concerns. Dr. Han assured him that the surgery would greatly improve his vision, and my uncle felt confident in moving forward. While Dr. Han did all the necessary checks and assessments, he also learned about the expertise of the other doctors at the clinic, Dr. Heo Joong Gu and Dr. Lee Jae Jung, both of whom are highly skilled and renowned for their precision in vision correction surgeries.

The surgery itself went smoothly, and my uncle was amazed at how quickly he recovered. His vision improved dramatically, and he’s incredibly happy with the results. Vision correction surgery in South Korea typically costs between $1,000 to $3,000 USD per eye, depending on the specific procedure and clinic. For my uncle, the total cost fell within this range, which is considered quite reasonable for the level of care and expertise at Jryn Eye Clinic. If you’re considering vision correction surgery, I highly recommend Jryn Eye Clinic.

33

Hi Everyone! My mother had been struggling with deteriorating vision for years, and after trying various glasses and contact lenses, she decided to explore vision correction surgery. We wanted a clinic that was not only reputable but also patient-focused and technologically advanced. That’s when we discovered CloudHospital, which made the entire process seamless and stress-free. Through their platform, we found Jryn Eye Clinic in Seoul — a modern, highly rated eye center with a team of outstanding specialists. My mom was treated by Dr. Sang Youp Han, and from the very first consultation, she felt reassured by his expertise and kindness. The surgery itself was quick and comfortable, and she noticed a dramatic improvement in her vision within just a day.

The staff at Jryn Eye Clinic were incredibly professional and attentive, and the clinic used the latest technology to ensure everything was precise and safe. CloudHospital handled all the communication, appointments, and even helped us navigate language barriers, which made the experience smooth and worry-free. The total cost was reasonable — around $2,000 USD — which included the consultation, surgery, and post-op care. Now, my mother no longer needs glasses, and she’s so happy with her decision. We are both truly grateful to CloudHospital for connecting us with Jryn Eye Clinic.

34

Hi john,

My friend’s treatment experience in South Korea through Cloud Hospital, vision correction surgery typically costs between ₩1,000,000 to ₩2,500,000 KRW per , depending on the type of procedure and technology used.

One of the most recommended clinics is JRYN Eye Clinic in Seoul. My friend was treated there and had a great experience. The doctors — Dr. Sang Youp Han, Dr. Heo Joong Gu, and Dr. Lee Jae Jung— are very experienced and professional. The clinic uses advanced equipment, provides detailed pre-surgery tests, and offers care in a clean, comfortable environment. It’s also friendly for international patients, with staff who can help guide you through the process in English.

35

Hi Everyone! My mom had been dealing with worsening vision for years, and after trying glasses and contact lenses without much success, she decided to look into vision correction surgery. We wanted a clinic that was reputable, patient-focused, and used advanced technology, so we turned to CloudHospital. Through their platform, we found Jryn Eye Clinic in Seoul, a highly rated and modern eye center with a great team of specialists. My mom was treated by Dr. Sang Youp Han, and from the first consultation, she felt reassured by his expertise and kindness. The surgery was quick and comfortable, and she saw a dramatic improvement in her vision the very next day.

The staff at Jryn Eye Clinic were professional and attentive, and they used the latest technology to ensure everything was done safely and accurately. CloudHospital made the whole process easy by handling communication, appointments, and even helping us with language barriers. The total cost was around $2,000 USD, which covered the consultation, surgery, and post-op care. Now my mom doesn’t need glasses anymore, and she’s so happy with her decision. We are both very grateful to CloudHospital for connecting us with Jryn Eye Clinic.