For many years, tourists from around the world have flocked to South Korea to experience its beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine and rich culture. But more recently, the country has developed into a thriving healthcare hub, with thousands of foreign patients traveling to South Korea for a wide range of medical and wellness treatments.

According to South Korean government data, over 110,000 health tourists traveled to the country in 2011, and cosmetic surgery, dermatology, traditional oriental medicine and cancer treatment were some the most sought after procedures.

Technology is driving Health and Wellness Travel to South Korea

South Korea is one of the world’s most technologically advanced countries. High-tech corporations like Samsung and LG have long held respected positions within the global market. Now health care is sharing the global spotlight, and state-of-the-art medical technologies are the main attraction.

The increase in demand for healthcare services in South Korea is also due to the country’s highly skilled physicians and superior healthcare services. The nation is recognized worldwide for advances in disease prevention and alternative medicine. Because of this, health tourists are inspired to undergo comprehensive health screenings, where highly-trained medical staff uses modern equipment and techniques to evaluate a patient’s health and uncover diseases at early stages. Treatments that combine Western medicine with “traditional” oriental medicine are commonly used to treat or cure ailments.

Preventative Medicine combined with Curative Spa

For tourist seeking to revitalize the body and rejuvenate the soul can select all-inclusive wellness packages to Seoul, the country’s capital. A typical package may include an extensive health screening combined with a spiritual retreat in a Buddhist temple, or a Korean cultural experience combined with a traditional spa stay. And with the assistance of a reputable health travel provider, visitors will enjoy first-class treatment from arrival to departure, ensuring a worry-free travel experience.

Getting there

While in Seoul, visitors will appreciate the exceptional service and reasonable cost of treatment. Most hospitals involved in South Korean medical tourism maintain international patient departments that employ English-speaking staff hired to take care of medical tourists’ needs.

Additionally, the South Korean government has amended its immigration policies allowing overseas patients, as well as their family members to obtain long-term medical visas in order receive extensive medical treatment in the country. Global health travel providers like Voyage for Health can make all the arrangements for traveling to South Korea for health purposes. They will assist in obtaining medical visas and scheduling treatments and procedures, as well as book accommodations, coordinate transportation and tours.