Korean medical facilities operate differently from Western systems. Understanding the structure helps you navigate your experience.
Types of Facilities
Large Hospitals (병원)
- Multiple departments
- Comprehensive services
- Often university-affiliated
- Full emergency capabilities
Clinics (클리닉)
- Specialized focus
- Smaller, more personalized
- Outpatient primarily
- Most plastic surgery done here
Clinic Structure
Typical Layout
- Reception/waiting area
- Consultation rooms
- Operating rooms
- Recovery rooms
- Treatment rooms (non-surgical)
Flow of Care
Typical Patient Journey
- Check-in at reception
- Wait in designated area
- Meet with coordinator
- Consultation with doctor
- Photos and imaging
- Treatment plan discussed
- Payment processed
Hours of Operation
Typical Schedule
- Monday-Friday: 10am-7pm
- Saturday: 10am-4pm
- Sunday: Usually closed
- Some evening appointments
Payment System
How It Works
- Payment typically before procedure
- Deposit to secure booking
- Balance on surgery day
- Follow-ups included in price
Medical Records
- Clinics maintain records
- Request copies before leaving
- May need to pay for copies
- Digital records increasingly common
After Hours
- Emergency numbers provided
- Some 24-hour lines
- KakaoTalk communication
- Hospital ER if urgent
