Korea medical tourism packages: What is included in 2026

Korea medical tourism packages typically include a bundled service offering: the primary medical procedure (surgery, treatment, or checkup), professional medical interpretation, airport transfers, and occasionally accommodation or recovery care services. In 2026, the definition of these packages has expanded to include "concierge" elements, such as visa processing support (specifically for the C-3-3 medical visa), tax refund assistance (approx. 7-10% return on eligible procedures), and post-operative aftercare management. Unlike all-inclusive vacation resorts, however, flights and daily meals are rarely included in standard medical packages unless you are booking a premium VIP tier service, which can cost upwards of $20,000 USD.

The short answer: Standard Korea medical tourism packages in 2026 include the procedure cost, 1:1 medical interpretation, and airport logistics, bundling these for a 10-15% savings compared to booking separately; however, medication and flights are almost always excluded.

Understanding the Structure of Korean Medical Packages

South Korea has solidified its position as a global leader in medical tourism, attracting over 500,000 international patients annually as of 2025. The efficiency of the system relies heavily on "agencies" and "international centers" within hospitals that package services to make the journey seamless for foreigners.

When you see a "Medical Tourism Package" advertised for 2026, it is rarely a fixed product like a box of cereal. It is usually a modular service agreement. The complexity ranges from a simple 2-hour dermatology visit to a comprehensive 14-day plastic surgery journey.

1. The Core Medical Component

This is the anchor of the package. In 2026, pricing transparency is strictly enforced by the Korean government. The medical portion covers:

• Pre-op Consultation: Comprehensive analysis (CT scans, X-rays, or 3D skin analysis). A standalone CT scan can cost between 50,000 and ₩150,000, but is included here.
• The Procedure: The surgery or treatment itself, including anesthesia fees (local or sedation). General anesthesia often incurs an additional surcharge of 200,000 to ₩500,000 if not explicitly bundled.
• Doctor's Fee: The surgeon's honorarium.

2. The Logistics Component (Concierge)

This is where the "package" value proposition lies. Navigating Seoul's complex transit system immediately after surgery is difficult.

• Airport Transfer: A private limousine van or black sedative from Incheon International Airport (ICN) to your hotel or clinic. The distance is roughly 60-70km, taking about 70-90 minutes. A standard taxi costs approx. ₩70,000, while private transfer services value this at ₩150,000.
• Interpretation: This is critical. By law, medical consent forms must be fully understood. Packages provide a dedicated coordinator who speaks your language fluent native-level (English, Chinese, Russian, Japanese, etc.). Standalone interpreters charge roughly ₩50,000 per hour; packages offer unlimited support during clinic hours.

detailed Breakdown by Package Type

Different medical specialties offer vastly different package structures. A dental implant package looks nothing like a full-body makeover package.

A. Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Packages

These are the most common and comprehensive. They are designed for stays ranging from 7 to 14 days, as stitches are usually removed 7 days post-op.

• Inclusions:

  • Priority booking (skipping the 2-3 month waitlist for popular surgeons).
  • One night of hospitalization (if required, e.g., for breast augmentation or facial contouring).
  • Deswelling treatments: SmartLux therapy, hyperbaric oxygen chambers (usually 3-5 sessions valued at ₩100,000 each).
  • Pumpkin juice: A traditional Korean remedy for swelling, often provided by the box (30 pouches).

• Exclusions:

  • Prescriptions: Antibiotics and painkillers must be bought at a pharmacy. Expect to pay 30,000 to ₩80,000 depending on the duration.
  • Compression Garments: Essential for liposuction or breast surgery. These cost between 100,000 and ₩200,000.

For those interested in specific procedures, you can read our guide on best plastic surgery clinics for foreigners in Seoul to understand the baseline costs before packaging.

B. Dermatology & Skin Care Packages

These are shorter, often labeled as "One-Day Beautification" packages.

• Duration: 3 to 5 hours.
• Typical Cost: $500 to $2,000 USD.
• Inclusions:
  • VISIA Skin Analysis.
  • Combination treatments (e.g., Ulthera + Botox + Skin Booster).
  • Tax Refund Slip (Immediate deduction or airport refund).
• Exclusions:
  • Transport is rarely included for single-day treatments unless the total spend exceeds roughly ₩3,000,000 ($2,200 USD).

If you are looking for specific skin clinics, check out our insights on best dermatology clinics in Seoul for foreigners.

C. Comprehensive Health Checkups

Korea is famous for its efficient "Executive Health Screenings." These are extremely popular with visitors from the USA and Russia due to the cost-efficiency.

• Cost: ₩500,000 (Basic) to ₩4,000,000 (VIP).
• Inclusions:
  • Head-to-toe analysis: MRI, MRA, CT, Endoscopy (gastroscopy/colonoscopy), and blood work (50+ markers).
  • Porridge (Juk) meal after fasting.
  • English report delivered via email within 7-10 days.
• The Experience: It works like a factory line. You move from station to station, completing a full checkup that would take weeks in other countries, in just 3 to 4 hours.

Accommodation: The "Recovery House" vs. Hotel

One of the biggest variables in a medical package is accommodation. Does the package include a hotel, or are you on your own?

1. Partner Hotels

Large clinics in Gangnam typically have corporate rates with nearby 4-5 star hotels (e.g., Novotel, Dormy Inn).

• Distance: Usually within a 5-10 minute walk or a short taxi ride.
• Package Perk: The "Corporate Rate" usually saves you 20-30% off the Booking.com price.
• Inclusion: Breakfast is often soft/liquid diet friendly upon request.

2. Recovery Guesthouses

These are specialized accommodations often run by medical agencies.

• Location: Often in Gangnam-gu (Yeoksam, Sinsa, Nonhyeon areas).
• Perks: They have recliner beds (crucial for rhinoplasty recovery to sleep elevated), humidifiers, and unlimited ice packs.
• Community: You meet other patients recovering, which provides emotional support.

For a detailed comparison on where to stay, read our guide on Airbnb vs recovery hotels for medical tourists.

The Financials: Fees and Refunds

When you receive a quote for a "Package," it is vital to understand the pricing model.

Agency Fee vs. Direct Booking

If you book through a medical tourism agency (facilitator):

• Legality: They must be registered with the KHIDI (Korea Health Industry Development Institute).
• Cost: In the past, agencies marked up prices. In 2026, the model has shifted. Agencies often charge the same as the hospital walk-in price, taking their commission from the hospital's marketing budget (15-20%).
• Value: If the price is the same, the agency adds value by throwing in the airport transfer and interpretation for free.

The Tax Refund (Tax Refund for Cosmetic Surgery)

Foreign tourists staying less than 90 days are eligible for a VAT refund on cosmetic procedures.

• Rate: 10% of the surgical cost.
• Process: The clinic provides a "Certificate of Selling Medical Service for Overseas Patient." You scan this at the kiosk in Incheon Airport or Gimpo Airport before departure.
• Inclusion Status: The refund is your money back. Some shady packages might say "Tax Free" and pocket the refund themselves. Always demand the refund slip.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Package

Booking a medical package is more involved than booking a hotel room. It requires medical clearance.

Specialized "Wellness" Packages

Beyond surgery, Korea offers "Wellness" packages that combine traditional medicine with modern relaxation. These are particularly popular in regions like Daegu and Jeju Island.

Hanbang (Traditional Korean Medicine) Packages

• Location: Often centered around Dongdaemun or regional wellness centers.
• Inclusions:
  • Pulse diagnosis and Sasang constitution analysis.
  • Acupuncture and Moxibustion sessions.
  • Personalized herbal medicine (brewed and shipped to your home country, shipping fees of roughly ₩100,000 usually apply).
  • Tea therapy sessions.

These packages focus on chronic fatigue, anti-aging, and skin health from the inside out. For those interested in non-invasive anti-aging, our article on anti-aging treatments in Korea covers modern alternatives.

Pros and Cons of All-Inclusive Packages

Is it better to bundle, or should you DIY your medical trip?

The "Aftercare" Component: What happens when you fly home?

A critical missing piece in many budget packages is long-distance aftercare. In 2026, premium packages include "Digital Follow-up."

• Video Calls: Scheduled check-ins at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months post-op.
• Emergency Channel: A 24/7 chat line if you suspect infection or complications.
• Revision Insurance: Some high-end packages ($15,000+) include an insurance policy that covers the cost of revision surgery and flight if the initial result is medically botched within 1 year.

Timeline: The Typical Patient Journey

To help you visualize the inclusions, here is a timeline of a typical Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) package duration of 7 days.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Even in "All-Inclusive" packages, the definition of "All" has limits. Be prepared for these out-of-pocket expenses:

1. Food: Unless you are an inpatient (hospitalized), you buy your own food. Budget ₩30,000/day for delivery apps like Coupang Eats or Baemin.
2. Blood Tests: Pre-op blood tests are usually included, but if you have a specific condition (e.g., thyroid issues) requiring extra panels, there is a surcharge (approx. ₩50,000).
3. Bank Fees: Wiring a deposit internationally incurs SWIFT fees. The receiving bank in Korea also charges a fee. You are usually responsible for covering both to ensure the full deposit amount arrives.

Shopping and Tourism Add-ons

While here, you will likely shop for beauty products. Many packages now provide "VIP Vouchers" for duty-free shops like Lotte or Shilla Duty Free. These vouchers can give you 5-15% discounts or additional freebies.

• Popular purchase: Post-procedure skincare (Cica creams, sunscreen).
• Recommendation: Check our guide on best Korean sunscreen guide to know what to buy for sensitive, post-laser skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Is a Package Right for You?

In 2026, the Korea medical tourism landscape is more mature and transparent than ever. Packages offer peace of mind, specifically regarding the language barrier and logistics, which are the two biggest stressors for international patients. If you value convenience and safety over strict budget minimization, a package is highly recommended. However, for seasoned travelers familiar with Seoul and basic Korean, a "DIY" approach might offer more flexibility.

Whatever route you choose, ensure your provider is a registered medical tourism facilitator. Safety is the ultimate luxury.