How to Report a Skin Clinic Complaint in Korea

When Things Don’t Go as Planned

Korea’s dermatology and aesthetic clinics are world-renowned for precision and technology—but sometimes, treatments don’t go as expected.
If you experienced poor results, unexpected complications, overcharging, or unprofessional care at a skin clinic, there are official channels in Korea where you can file a formal complaint or request mediation.

This guide walks you through exactly where and how to report your issue—especially if you’re a foreigner seeking help in English.

1️⃣ Identify the Type of Problem

Before reporting, determine whether your issue is:

• Medical or procedural – unexpected side effects, incorrect treatment, or injury.
• Service or financial – overpricing, misleading consultation, lack of follow-up, or rude conduct.
• Advertising or ethics violation – false claims, fake before/after images, or unauthorized procedures.

This helps you choose the right agency to contact.

2️⃣ Where to Report a Skin Clinic Complaint in Korea

Korea Medical Dispute Mediation and Arbitration Agency (K-Medi)

If your complaint involves a medical dispute, complication, or malpractice, contact K-Medi.

• 📞 Call: 1670-2545 (Korean & limited English support)
• 🌐 Website: www.k-medi.or.kr
• 🏢 Purpose: Independent government body handling medical negligence, unsafe procedures, and professional accountability cases.
• 💡 Tip: You can apply online or visit in person. They provide a formal mediation process with doctors and legal advisors.

Medical Korea Support Center

Ideal for foreigners or medical tourists.

• 📞 Call: 1577-7129 (in Korea) / +82-1577-7129 (from abroad)
• 🌐 Website: medicalkorea.or.kr
• 🏢 Purpose: Overseen by the Ministry of Health and Welfare; helps foreign patients resolve clinic disputes, refunds, or service complaints.
• 💬 Languages: English, Chinese, Japanese, Russian and more available through coordinators.

Korea Consumer Agency (KCA)

For general consumer complaints—such as false advertising, hidden fees, or refusal to refund.

• 📞 Call: 1372 (nationwide hotline)
• 🌐 Website: www.kca.go.kr
• 🏢 Purpose: Protects consumer rights for all sectors, including cosmetic clinics.

Gangnam Medical Tourism Center (for Gangnam Clinics)

If your treatment took place in the Gangnam district, you can also contact the Gangnam Medical Tourism Center, which assists patients visiting local skin and aesthetic clinics.

• 📍 Located inside Gangnam Station Tourist Information Center.
• 💬 Multilingual staff help file reports and communicate with clinics.
• 🌐 Website: medicaltour.gangnam.go.kr

3️⃣ What to Prepare Before You Report

Gather as much information as possible:

• Clinic name, doctor’s name, and treatment date.
• Receipts, invoices, or bank transfers.
• Photos of the treatment area before/after.
• Medical records or prescriptions (you have the right to request these).
• Messages, emails, or recorded communications with the clinic.
• A clear description of your issue and what resolution you want (refund, correction, apology, etc.).

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re a foreigner, prepare English translations or ask for an interpreter through the Medical Korea hotline.

4️⃣ What Happens After You File

• Agencies usually contact the clinic for their statement.
• Mediation or arbitration sessions may be arranged.
• Simple service complaints can be resolved in a few weeks; medical disputes may take longer.
• In serious cases, your complaint can lead to professional disciplinary action.

5️⃣ Important Reminders

• Don’t post personal accusations online before filing officially—formal documentation gives your case more weight.
• Keep copies of every file and communication.
• Act promptly: some agencies have reporting time limits (usually within 1 year of the incident).
• Be calm and factual in your description; emotional tone can weaken your claim.

Final Thoughts

If you had a disappointing or unsafe experience at a Korean skin clinic, know that you are not powerless.
Korea has transparent, legal channels designed to protect both locals and international patients. Filing through the right agency ensures your voice is heard—and helps raise the standard of medical care across the industry.