What VAT means for cosmetic skin treatments in Korea
South Korea applies a value-added tax (VAT) of 10% to many goods and services, and that includes most cosmetic and aesthetic skin treatments. Treatments done mainly for appearance, such as Botox for wrinkles, skin boosters, toning lasers and lifting devices, are generally treated as taxable services. Some treatments that are considered medically necessary may be handled differently, but for most visitors booking aesthetic care, it is safest to assume VAT applies.
For international visitors, the confusing part is not the tax itself but the way prices are shown. Some clinics list prices with VAT already included, while others list the base price and add VAT at payment. If you compare two price lists without checking which method each one uses, you can easily misjudge the real cost by 10%.
Why many clinics list prices without VAT
In Korea it is common for aesthetic clinics to show the pre-tax amount on menus, websites and messaging apps. There are a few practical reasons for this:
- Consistency with local practice.
Many Korean patients are used to seeing the base price and expect VAT to be added at the counter.
- Clarity for combined plans.
When several treatments are combined, it is simpler to add the base prices first and apply VAT once to the total.
- Different tax treatment for different items.
If a visit includes both taxable and non-taxable services, listing base prices avoids confusion about which line carries tax.
At Daybeau Clinic Seomyeon, the prices on our price list
are first-visit prices in KRW with VAT excluded. The 10% VAT is added when you pay. Prices were checked in October 2026.
How to calculate your final amount
The calculation is straightforward: take the listed price and multiply by 1.1. Here are a few examples using first-visit prices from our price list (KRW, VAT excluded, checked October 2026):
- Wrinkle Botox, Korean toxin, 1 area.
Listed at 3,000, which becomes 3,300 with VAT.
- Jaw Botox 50 units.
Listed at 9,900, which becomes 10,890 with VAT.
- Rejuran 2cc.
Listed at 139,000, which becomes 152,900 with VAT.
- Shurink Universe 300 shots.
Listed at 55,000, which becomes 60,500 with VAT.
- Ultherapy Prime 300 shots.
Listed at 990,000, which becomes 1,089,000 with VAT.
If you plan more than one treatment, add the listed prices together first, then add 10%. Remember that some items have extras that are charged separately, such as Potenza tips or the ₩5,000 numbing spray used for laser hair removal, and these are also part of the total you pay.
VAT refunds and what to check before you rely on one
Many visitors know that Korea offers tax refunds on shopping, and some ask whether the same applies to skin treatments. Korea has at times run refund schemes for foreign patients receiving certain cosmetic procedures, but the rules, eligible treatments and time limits have changed over the years. Whether any refund is available to you depends on the regulations in force on the day of your treatment.
Our practical advice is simple: budget for the full price including VAT, and treat any possible refund as a bonus rather than part of your plan. If a refund matters to your decision, ask the clinic before your appointment and check the current official rules yourself.
Tips for reading Korean clinic price lists
VAT is only one part of reading a price correctly. When you compare offers, check these details as well:
- Amount of product or energy.
A price should say how many units, cc or shots are included, for example "Water Glow 2cc" or "Sofwave 100 shots".
- First-visit versus regular price.
First-visit prices usually apply once per new patient per item. Ask how repeat sessions are priced.
- Items quoted after consultation.
Fillers, thread lifts, Juvelook, Sculptra and Thermage FLX are quoted after an in-person consultation because the amount needed varies from person to person.
- The date the price was checked.
Prices can change, so look for a recent date and confirm before you travel.
Price is also only one factor. Suitability and results vary, and a doctor should decide at consultation whether a treatment is right for your skin. For a broader look at what to expect, see our guide to Korean skin treatments in Busan.
Frequently asked questions
Is VAT always 10% on skin treatments in Korea?
The standard VAT rate in Korea is 10%, and it applies to most aesthetic treatments. Some medically necessary treatments may be taxed differently, so if your visit includes a medical concern, ask the clinic how your bill will be calculated.
Will the clinic tell me the total before I pay?
Yes. At Daybeau Clinic Seomyeon, payment is made on the day of treatment after the consultation confirms your plan, so you will know the treatments and amounts before you pay. You can also ask for a written estimate including VAT by message beforehand.
Can I get a VAT refund at the airport for skin treatments?
Refund rules for medical and cosmetic services are different from shopping refunds and have changed over time. Please check the current rules before your trip and ask us at booking, but do not count on a refund when budgeting.
Are the prices on your website the final price?
They are first-visit prices in KRW with VAT excluded, checked October 2026. Add 10% for VAT, plus any separately charged items such as tips or numbing spray.
Want a clear estimate before you travel? Book a consultation
or message us on WhatsApp with the treatments you are considering, and we will reply with prices in KRW.
