If you are planning a cosmetic treatment trip to Hongdae in Seoul, KATE Dermatology is almost always mentioned in every Chinese travel guide. Located near the Hongdae Entrance Station, this clinic is renowned for its “friendly Chinese service, transparent prices, and a wide range of treatments.” On weekends, there are often many patients from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China waiting outside the clinic. This article is a detailed account of my own experience there, including the clinic’s environment, the treatments available, the procedure itself, the cost breakdown, and my actual post-treatment feelings.
Location and Transportation to KATE Dermatology in Hongdae
Basic Information:
What Is the Consultation Process Like at KATE Dermatology in Hongdae?
On the same day: Slight redness, no swelling; you can go out as usual.
Days 1–2: Some people may experience mild peeling; this is a normal part of the old skin shedding process.
Days 3–5: The skin will appear noticeably brighter, and the color of sunspots will start to fade.
Day 7: The overall texture of the skin will be more even, and the pore size will be significantly reduced.
✅ First-time visitors to Korea for cosmetic treatments: The process is clear, and the Chinese-speaking staff provide friendly assistance, so you won’t face any language barriers.
✅ Short-term travelers with tight schedules: Treatments with short recovery times, such as pico laser and Aqua Shine, are ideal for those with limited time.
✅ People with limited budgets who want good value for money: Dermatology clinics in the Hongdae area generally charge 20–40% less than those in the Gangnam area.
✅ People who want to combine multiple minor cosmetic treatments in one visit: The bundled packages offered by KATE are very efficient.
Step 1: Fill out a basic questionnaire Step 2: Consultation with a doctor (about 10–15 minutes) Step 3: Confirm the treatments and costs Step 4: Apply numbing cream (depending on the treatment)
The staff at the front desk will give you a questionnaire asking about your recent laser treatments, any allergies you may have, and the skincare products you are currently using. A Chinese version of the questionnaire is usually available, so you can complete it and hand it in.
After entering the treatment room, the doctor will first use equipment to examine your skin and determine its condition (such as moisture level, oiliness, pore size, and the distribution of spots). Based on these findings, they will recommend appropriate treatments for you. If there is no Chinese translator present, the clinic usually has a translation app available to assist in the communication, so you won’t face any major language barriers.
After the doctor’s consultation, the staff at the front desk will print out a document detailing the treatments and their corresponding costs for you to review. All fees are clearly listed, and you can refuse any treatments you don’t need without any pressure to purchase them.
For laser and injectable treatments, numbing cream is applied about 20 to 40 minutes before the procedure. You can rest in the waiting area or use your phone during this time; the process usually goes quickly.
People whose skin becomes dry, peels, or gets flaky during seasonal changes.
People over the age of 25 who are starting to develop fine lines.
People who have been using skincare products for a long time but still don’t see significant hydrating results.
People who want to achieve a “glass-like” skin texture.
Treatment
Cost (Korean won)
Notes
Pico Laser (whole face)
Approximately 150,000
Includes basic skincare.
Aqua Shine (machine injection, whole face)
Approximately 200,000
Includes soothing post-treatment care.
Botox (jawline)
Approximately 120,000–180,000
Depends on the amount used.
Basic skin care
Approximately 50,000–80,000
Includes cleansing and hydration steps.
| Treatment | Cost (Korean won) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pico Laser (whole face) | Approximately 150,000 | Includes basic skincare. |
| Aqua Shine (machine injection, whole face) | Approximately 200,000 | Includes soothing post-treatment care. |
| Botox (jawline) | Approximately 120,000–180,000 | Depends on the amount used. |
| Basic skin care | Approximately 50,000–80,000 | Includes cleansing and hydration steps. |
⚠️ Important Notes:
- On the day of the laser treatment, avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Wear sun protection gear such as a hat and sunscreen when going out.
- After the Aqua Shine treatment, refrain from taking baths or using saunas to prevent infection at the injection sites.
- For 3 days after the treatment, avoid using irritating skincare products that contain acids or retinol.
- If you plan to have the laser treatment on the last day of your trip in Korea, make sure to wear a mask on the plane to protect your skin from wind.
- It is recommended to make an online reservation in advance, as the waiting time at the clinic can be quite long, especially on weekends.