Skin Clinic Refund System in Korea

Getting aesthetic treatments or skin procedures in Korea can be exciting — but sometimes things don’t go exactly as expected. Knowing how the refund system works at skin clinics in Korea helps you make informed choices and protect your rights.

What “Refund” Means in This Context

Refunds in skin clinics typically cover:

• Cancellation of a scheduled procedure before it happens (deposit retrieval or part thereof)
• Clinic-initiated cancellation or inability to perform the treatment
• Occasionally, in very serious cases, refund due to complications or mis-treatment (though this is less common and depends on clinic policy).

Refunds usually do not cover:

• Dissatisfaction with results alone (unless stated in the contract)
• Treatments performed and completed (no refund simply because you changed your mind)
• Personal costs like travel, hotel stays, or after-care outside the clinic’s scope.

Typical Refund & Cancellation Policies at Korean Skin Clinics

While each clinic sets its own rules, these are common frameworks you’ll encounter:

• Deposit requirement: Many clinics ask for a deposit (often ~10% of the total cost) to secure treatment date.
• Tiered refund schedule: The longer the notice for cancellation, the higher the refund amount. For example:
• Cancel more than ~10–14 business days ahead → 80-90% refund of deposit
• Cancel ~7–10 business days ahead → ~50% refund
• Cancel less than ~7 business days ahead or on the day → little to no refund
• Clinic cancellation: If the clinic cannot perform the procedure (doctor unavailable, equipment fault, etc.), the full deposit is generally refunded or a new date offered.
• Refund formality: Cancellation must often be submitted in writing (email, form) and the timestamp matters for determining eligibility.

What You Should Ask Before Paying

Before you book and pay, make sure you get clarity on:

• How much the deposit is and when it must be paid.
• What the exact refund schedule is for your procedure (in writing).
• What happens if you need to reschedule instead of cancel.
• Whether the deposit applies only to the treatment or also to follow-ups/maintenance.
• How refunds are processed (bank transfer, currency details, any transfer fees).
• What documentation you’ll receive (invoice, payment receipt, refund policy in English) so you have clear records.

Refund in Case of Treatment Outcomes or Issues

If you undergo a procedure and are not satisfied or have a complication:

• Many clinics will offer revision treatments or additional care rather than a full cash refund.
• Full refunds for completed treatments are rare and typically only if there was a clear procedural error or medical fault.
• Ensure you have your consent form, photos (before & after), and documented communications so you can discuss resolution options.
• If resolution with the clinic fails, you may seek advice from consumer-protection or medical-dispute agencies in Korea.

Tips for International Patients

• Check whether the clinic’s refund policy is written in English and clearly states terms for foreign patients.
• Keep copies of all receipts, contracts, email communications, and proof of payment.
• Make sure you understand currency issues (refund may be in KRW and you cover any conversion/transfer fees).
• If you live overseas, confirm how follow-up appointments or after-care will be handled if complications occur.
• Ask about registration status of the clinic (whether it handles foreign patients and is eligible for medical tourism standards).

Final Thoughts

The refund system at skin clinics in Korea is generally well-structured, but it varies significantly by clinic and treatment type. Cancelling early gives you the best chance of recovering most of your deposit. Once a procedure is done, expect fewer refund options and more likely revision or corrective care.
Being informed, reading the fine print, and keeping documentation will greatly increase your confidence and protection when choosing a clinic in Seoul.