If you’ve been looking for a top-tier Dermatology clinic for anti-aging treatments in Gangnam, Seoul, then BENJAMIN Dermatology in Sinsa-dong is likely already on your list. Established in 2005, this private dermatology practice is run by two directors who hold the rare “Dermatology Specialist” certification—available to just about 2% of practitioners across South Korea. The clinic specializes in non-invasive anti-aging procedures such as Thermage FLX, Ulthrea, EMFACE, and Titanium Lifting, and has earned an excellent reputation among both locals and tourists visiting South Korea. But here’s the question: is it really worth making the trip? How does it compare to other specialized clinics in Gangnam? Could the prices be surprisingly high? In this article, we’ll cut through the marketing hype and use real data and facts to give you a clear answer—so you can decide for yourself after reading.
What’s the background of BENJAMIN Dermatology? This established private clinic was founded in 2005, and its story is far more interesting than you might think.
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Let’s start with the name—“BENJAMIN” was inspired by the movie *The Curious Case of Benjamin Button*, which tells the story of someone who ages in reverse, going from old to young. The clinic chose this name for a straightforward purpose: to enable the skin to reverse time and return to a younger state. This isn’t some gimmicky online shop that relies on catchy names for attention; rather, it’s a reputable private Dermatology practice that has been in operation for nearly 20 years.
Headquartered in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, its flagship store is located on the 6th floor of 138 Isadasan-ro, just a 5-minute walk from Exit 1 of the Sinsa subway station. There’s also a branch in the Myeongdong shopping district, offering a one-stop experience that combines shopping with beauty treatments. The clinic operates on a fully appointment-based system, limiting the number of patients per day to ensure that every client receives in-depth consultations by a chief physician. This approach is quite rare in the Dermatology industry of Gangnam, where clinics often operate on a “one-hour assembly-line” schedule.
Clinic environment and consultation process: It’s not just a “facial treatment” — more like a skin planning session.
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Upon entering BENJAMIN’s Dermatology clinic, what strikes you first isn’t some overly luxurious “high-end luxury” vibe, but rather a professional, clean, and uncluttered atmosphere. The treatment rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Namsan Tower—which is definitely a plus. Having the scenery outside in view while undergoing laser or Thermage treatments makes things much more comfortable than just staring at the ceiling.
The biggest difference between the in-person consultation process at this clinic and those of regular clinics is that it’s not a quick 10-minute chat before starting any procedures. First, they use an AI skin analysis system to scan the entire face—this system is said to be trained on over 2 million pieces of skin data—to generate a report containing quantitative metrics such as Pore size, distribution of pigmentation, and Collagen density. Then, the clinic director will review this report with you to discuss potential treatment options, explaining why certain combinations are recommended based on the data, rather than simply saying, “This one’s good; go with this.” It feels more like a data-driven skin planning session, rather than a straightforward “enter → lie down → pay → leave” routine.
What exactly are the only 2% of “Dermatology specialists” in South Korea? This figure is even more significant than you might think.
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Many people who visit Dermatology clinics in South Korea overlook a crucial issue: what is the background of the “doctor” performing the treatment on them? In South Korea, there are two paths to becoming a dermatologist. One involves general practitioners (GPs) obtaining their licenses and then pursuing further training in aesthetic medicine, which is also the background of most doctors at affordable clinics. The other path requires completing specialized residency training in dermatology, passing assessments by the Korean Dermatological Association, and earning the title of “Dermatologist Specialist” — only about 2% of doctors in the country hold this qualification.
What’s the difference? Simply put: while general physicians focus on learning “technical procedures,” Dermatology specialists study a “comprehensive system that spans from pathology to treatment.” Anti-aging treatments aren’t just about delivering energy into the skin—factors such as skin type, degree of sagging, laser energy settings, choice of treatment layers, and the logic behind combining different treatments all directly impact both the effectiveness and safety of the results. Their specialized background enables them to tailor treatment plans dynamically based on each individual’s skin condition, rather than using the same parameters for every face. This is precisely why BENJAMIN can maintain a significant edge over cheaper clinics in Gangnam when it comes to the quality of anti-aging treatments.
Put it another way: if you just want a basic micro-bubble cleansing treatment, the difference between different clinics isn’t significant. But when it comes to advanced anti-aging procedures like Thermage or HIFU, the expertise of the doctor performing the treatment truly determines whether you’ll end up regretting it. Spending the same amount of money—having it done by one of South Korea’s top 2% of specialists versus a doctor who’s only completed a few training sessions—can yield completely different results.
In-depth comparison of the two directors’ experience: Lu Shengmin vs. Director Hong – what are their unique strengths?
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BENJAMIN Dermatology is headed by two directors who work together with clear divisions of responsibilities and distinct areas of focus—nothing like the common scenario where a “nominal director” is never actually present.
Dr. Ro Sung-min holds a master’s degree in Dermatology from Yonsei University, with expertise in photorejuvenation and Collagen regeneration techniques. His most renowned concept is “layered anti-aging”: instead of applying energy at just one depth, he utilizes different device parameters tailored to various skin layers (epidermis/dermis/fascia) to achieve a firming effect that works “from within outward.” This approach has reportedly been included in medical aesthetics textbooks worldwide. If your primary goals are anti-aging, lifting, and addressing facial sagging, Dr. Ro is the ideal choice.
Dr. Hong – a master’s graduate from the College of Medicine at Katolická Univerzita, he has received the Annual Innovation Award from the Korean Society for Anti-Aging Dermatology. His specialties include scar repair from acne, skin conditioning for sensitive skin, and comprehensive treatment of pigmentation issues. Unlike Dr. Lu’s “lifting approach,” Dr. Hong adopts a more “repair-oriented” strategy, utilizing a combination of laser therapy and regenerative injections to address complex skin conditions such as recurrent acne, noticeable acne scars, and damaged skin barriers. If your concern is skin texture rather than sagging, make an appointment with Dr. Hong first.
Practical advice: When making an appointment, you can simply mention your main requirements, and the customer service staff will help arrange a doctor who better fits your needs. Both doctors have over 10 years of clinical experience—they’re not just recent “trainees,” which is actually the standard among specialty clinics in Gangnam District.
Real-World Test of AI Skin Analysis System: One scan gives you deeper insights into your skin than you could ever achieve on your own
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BENJAMIN offers a feature that’s particularly reassuring for those who rely on data-driven decisions—before starting any treatment, an AI-powered skin scanner is used to conduct a full-face analysis. This system is said to have been trained using over 2 million pieces of skin data. It’s not some toy-like tool that simply tells you your skin score is 80; instead, it provides specific numerical values such as the area of Pores in μm², the distribution level of pigmentation (epidermis/dermis), and the Collagen density index. Once the scan is complete, you’ll receive a PDF report—just like a medical check-up report—with numerical values and reference ranges for each metric.
Why is this so important? Because when most people go to a Dermatology clinic, they can only say things like “I think my skin is very dry” or “I think my Pores are too large” — these are all subjective assessments. AI detection turns these “feelings” into numerical data, allowing the dermatologist to discuss with you what treatments would be appropriate based on those figures. The whole process is one of analysis rather than sales pressure. Moreover, this detection is included in the appointment for an in-person consultation and comes at no extra cost.
After completing the treatment course, they’ll also recommend that you return for a follow-up check in some time to compare the data and see how effective it really is. This provides an objective standard to assess the anti-aging results, rather than relying solely on subjective feelings like “I think I look better.”
Top Anti-Aging Treatment Matrix: HIFU, Thermage, EMFACE, Titanium Lifting – Which one is best for you?
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BENJAMIN’s treatment menu may not be the most extensive, but its offerings in the field of anti-aging can be described as a “top-tier lineup.” Instead of offering everything under the sun, it focuses on non-invasive anti-aging treatments, positioning itself as an “anti-aging solution lab” rather than just a general cosmetic clinic. Below, we break down four of its key flagship treatments along with their actual price ranges.
- Onda Titanium Lift: This treatment uses energy at specific frequencies to stimulate collagen contraction and regeneration, offering an “immediate firming effect” along with a short recovery period. It’s ideal for those who want quick results and prefer to avoid a noticeable recovery time. Estimated price: ₩800,000 – ₩1,500,000 (depending on treatment area and energy settings).
- The 2nd-generation Ulthrea – 300 shots plus IED regenerative laser treatment and collagen mask: The Ulthrea energy penetrates deep into the fascia layer to deliver “deep lifting,” while the IED laser works to improve the surface quality of the skin. Finally, the collagen mask helps soothe and repair the skin. It essentially combines “lifting” and “repairing” in just one session. Estimated price starts at ₩1.53 million (this is the price for the package deal, which is more cost-effective than having Ulthrea treatment alone).
- Thermage FLX 225 for the eyes + 2cc of Rejuran + wrinkle treatment around the eyes: a “precision combo package” specifically designed to address aging issues in the eye area. The Thermage FLX eye-specific probe tightens the skin around the eyes, while Rejuran provides regenerative nutrients to help manage dynamic wrinkles. Estimated price starts at ₩1.49 million.
- EMFACE Non-Energy Linear Lifting (single session): Utilizes electromagnetic energy to simultaneously stimulate facial muscles and the dermal layer, achieving dual-layer tightening for both the muscle layer and skin layer. It’s ideal for those who dislike injections or want to avoid any sensation of heat or pain. Estimated price starts at ₩1.2 million.
In short: if you can only choose one treatment, it’s recommended to start with the “HIFU + laser combo package,” as it offers the best value for money. If aging is most noticeable around your eyes, go straight for the thermage treatment for the eye area. If you’re sensitive to pain or short on time, Titanium Lifting is the ideal choice. If you’re unsure, schedule a in-person consultation so the doctor can help you make a decision based on AI analysis—this is where their expertise truly shines.
Full price disclosure: Is BENJAMIN expensive in Gangnam? Let the data speak.
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To put it simply: BENJAMIN’s prices fall in the “mid-to-high” range in Gangnam. They’re not the most expensive, but they certainly aren’t budget-friendly either. What’s truly impressive, however, is their highly transparent pricing system—foreigners pay the same as locals, no extra fees for tourists, and all service quotes are publicly available through BeautsGO. There’s no trick where the price seems different upon entry versus at checkout. This is quite rare in Gangnam, as many clinics charge foreigners 20%-50% more than locals.
Compared to clinics of the same tier (anti-aging specialists in Gangnam District with equivalent professional qualifications and equipment):
- Titanium Lifting (80kJ): Starting at ₩900,000 — While clinics in Gangnam charge around ₩800,000 to ₩1,500,000 for the same procedure, BENJAMIN offers a more affordable option with excellent value for money.
- HIFU 300 shots + IED laser + mask package: starting at ₩1.53 million —— The cost for just HIFU 300 shots in Gangnam is around ₩1.2 million to ₩1.8 million. This package offers HIFU shots along with laser treatment and masks at a great value.
- Eye Area Thermage FLX 225 Treatment + 2cc Rejuran Package: Starting at ₩1.49 million —— If purchased separately, the eye area Thermage treatment costs around ₩1 million, 2cc Rejuran around ₩400,000 to ₩600,000, and wrinkle treatment around ₩200,000; thus, the package is indeed about 20% cheaper than buying them individually.
⚠️ Note: The prices listed above are for reference only. Actual costs may vary depending on exchange rates, current promotions at the clinic, and your specific skin condition. It’s recommended to check the latest prices through BeautsGO before making an appointment, rather than relying on outdated online quotes.
Suitable vs. Unsuitable for BENJAMIN Dermatology — Use this comparison chart to decide in just 10 seconds
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Below is a comparison table to help you quickly determine whether you’re a good candidate for BENJAMIN’s Dermatology clinic:
The comparison above can serve as a preliminary screening reference, but it’s still recommended to have an in-person consultation so that the clinic director can provide personalized advice based on your skin condition.
Sinsa-dong Travel Guide: From subway station to the entrance – exact route + operating hours
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Transportation information is crucial for tourists visiting Korea, as no one wants to spend time navigating through unfamiliar streets to find a clinic. BENJAMIN’s location is truly excellent:
- Subway: Take Line 3 to Sinsa Station. Exit at Exit 1 and walk straight for about 245 meters (within 5 minutes). You’ll arrive at the 6th floor of the building at 138 Dosan-daero. Alternatively, you can also get there in about 10 minutes by walking from Apgujeong Rodeo Station on Line Bundang.
- Bus: You can take buses 143, 240, or 421 and get off at “Sinsa Station”.
- Taxi: Show the driver “138 Dosan-daero, 6th Floor, Gangnam-gu” directly—most drivers are familiar with this address.
- Starting from Myeongdong: Take Line 4 to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, then transfer to Line 3 to Sinsa Station. The entire journey takes about 30 minutes.
- Business hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 – 20:00 (it’s recommended to make reservations by 18:00); Saturday, 10:00 – 16:00; closed on Sundays. Hours are shorter on weekends, so be sure to plan ahead!
- Surroundings: Right below the clinic is Central Plaza, and right next to it is the shopping district featuring boutiques like Hermès and Chanel. You can head out shopping right after your facial treatment — it’s a seamless, hassle-free experience.
If you go with friends, or even do the treatment by yourself while someone waits nearby, it’s not boring at all—Sinsa-dong is itself Gangnam’s most upscale shopping area, filled with cafes, boutiques, and specialty stores, making it an even better fit for enjoying an afternoon tea after your cosmetic procedure compared to Myeongdong.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Q：Does BENJAMIN Dermatology offer services in Chinese? Can I go there even if I don’t speak Korean?
A: Yes, we offer full Chinese translation services throughout the process. From scheduling consultations and in-person consultations to providing post-surgery care instructions, there will always be a Chinese-speaking staff member present, so you won’t have any issues if you don’t speak Korean at all. It’s recommended to let us know in advance that you need a Chinese translator when making an appointment, and they’ll arrange it for you. You can also book in Chinese through the BeautsGO platform or by contacting Hannah972 on WeChat.
Q: How far in advance do I need to make a reservation? Can I go on the same day?
A: BENJAMIN only accepts appointments; he doesn’t see walk-in patients. It’s generally recommended to book at least 1–2 weeks in advance, and even earlier during peak times such as weekday mornings or Saturdays. It’s almost impossible to get in last minute—his daily capacity is limited to maintain the quality of face consultations. It’s best to secure a slot through BeautsGO or via WeChat with Hannah972.
Q: How long does it take to see results after undergoing anti-aging treatments? How long do those results last?
A：Photonic anti-aging treatments such as HIFU, Thermage, and Titanium Lifting typically show gradual results within 1–3 months—this is because it takes time for new Collagen to form. There may be an immediate sense of firmness, but the most noticeable improvements usually appear around 2–3 months after the treatment. The effects last around 6–12 months, depending on individual skin conditions and subsequent skincare routines. EMFACE recommends completing a full course of treatment (about 4–6 sessions), as the impact of a single session is limited.
Q: Compared to other Dermatology clinics in Sinsa like BENJAMIN and JD, DICARAT, how should one choose?
A: All three clinics are located in Sinsa-dong, each with its own strengths. BENJAMIN focuses on “specialist doctors + anti-aging package deals”; JD is well-known for its “1:1 consultation + customized anti-aging plans” (you can check out reviews of Sinsa’s JD Dermatology). DICARAT highlights “consultations by multiple doctors + no sales pressure” as its selling points (you can read experience shares from Sinsa’s DICARAT). Quick advice: If you prioritize a doctor’s qualifications (specialist certification) and well-designed anti-aging treatment packages, go with BENJAMIN. If you want a wider range of treatment options and different styles from various doctors, consider consulting all three before making a decision.
Q: Can I go shopping right after the procedure? What should I keep in mind?
A: After non-invasive treatments such as HIFU, Thermage, Titanium Lifting, and EMFACE, patients can usually return to their normal daily activities right away. Mild redness is a normal reaction that typically fades within a few hours to a day. It’s recommended to avoid wearing makeup, using saunas or steam rooms on the day of treatment, and to strengthen sun protection and moisturization. The clinic director will provide detailed post-treatment care instructions, which should be followed strictly.
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