Cost guide · Payment
Paying for Treatment in Korea & the End of the Tax Refund (2026)
Quick answer: From 1 January 2026, South Korea ended the VAT refund that foreign visitors could previously claim on cosmetic and dermatology procedures, so treatment prices now include 10% VAT with nothing to reclaim at the airport. Clinics in Gangnam usually accept major international cards. AMRED Clinic in Cheongdam confirms the final price, including VAT, in its written quote.
What changed in 2026
Between 2016 and 2025, foreign patients could reclaim much of the VAT on eligible cosmetic procedures. The program was not renewed for 2026, so refund documents are no longer issued for treatments paid from 1 January 2026.
How to avoid surprises
- Ask for an itemized quote with VAT shown
- Check your card's foreign-transaction fees
- Keep receipts for your own records or insurance
At a glance
- VAT refund: ended for cosmetic/dermatology procedures on 1 Jan 2026
- Prices: budget for the full amount including VAT
- Cards: major international cards widely accepted
- Currency: Korean won (KRW)
- Tip: confirm whether quotes include VAT
Your 5-step path
- Concern: browse concerns
- Treatment: browse treatments
- Cost: payment guide (this page)
- Travel: find your country guide
- Book: request a written quote
FAQ
Can foreigners still get a tax refund on cosmetic treatments in Korea?
No. The VAT refund for foreign patients on cosmetic and dermatology procedures ended on 1 January 2026.
Does AMRED accept international cards?
Major cards are generally accepted; confirm your payment method with the coordinator before travel.
Get a written quote from AMRED Clinic, Cheongdam
Send your concerns, photos and travel dates. An English-speaking coordinator replies with a doctor-reviewed plan and an itemized quote before you fly.
AMRED Clinic Anti-Aging Center
B1F/2F/4F Cheongjin Bldg., 731 Samseong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
About 200 m from Cheongdam Station Exit 8
Hours
Mon, Wed, Fri 10:00–19:00 · Tue, Thu 10:00–21:00
Sat 10:00–16:00 · Sun 10:00–18:00