What to do if you get seriously injured at a skin clinic in Seoul
Two things I believe are very important to understand before getting aesthetic treatments in Korea, or anywhere:
Aesthetic treatments are elective
Understand the agreement you will sign before getting treatment
Read the Fine Print
Know what you are signing
Choosing to undergo any aesthetic treatment, whether a simple facial, a laser procedure, or plastic surgery is your decision, not a medical necessity.
That distinction matters a lot, especially if things don’t go as planned.
Before any treatment, you’ll have to sign an informed consent form. It’s a legal agreement, and they are often in Korean.
By signing, you’re agreeing that you fully understand:
What the procedure entails and potential risks and side effects. Potential risks and side effects, from minor redness to serious complications like burns or infection.You agree to a limited liability clause which says the clinic isn’t responsible for known risks you’ve accepted
Signing a consent form is not giving up your rights
It means you accept some risk but your real protection is the clinic’s duty to perform competently and your knowledge of how to respond if they don’t.
Be your own Advocate
Legal Nuance
Limited Liability clauses do not cover negligence or malpractice.
If the clinic fails to uphold professional standards like using the wrong laser settings, not providing eye protection, or skipping sterilization they can still be held liable, no matter what you signed. Although any of this is very difficult to prove.
Bottom line: You are your own best advocate
Ask for a translation or take the time to translate it using papago.
Insist on understanding all risks and recourse if something happens, including worst-case scenarios, during your consultation
If a clinic rushes you or dodges your questions, it’s a red flag. Walk away.
If you are Injured
Go to a hospital
Aesthetic clinics are not hospitals. There are a few reasons why it is best to go to a hospital if you are injured from an aesthetic treatment.
Emergency Care Capability: Hospitals are equipped to handle complications like severe allergic reactions, infections, burns, or vascular issues immediately with a full range of specialists, emergency meds, and equipment that clinics usually do not have.
Objective Assessment: A hospital provides an impartial evaluation. Clinics have a vested interest in minimizing their liability, which can affect how they diagnose or treat complications.
Legal Documentation: Medical records from a hospital carry more weight if you pursue legal action. Proper
documentation of your injury and treatment is critical.
Documentation
You have to build your case so you will need documentation
Take clear, well-lit photos of the injury immediately. Continue to take photos daily of the healing or worsening process.
Collect any consent forms, receipts, or other paperwork. Clinics are required to provide these, so don't hesitate to ask for a copy if you don't have one.
Inform the clinic of the injury with written communication (emails, texts) and keep record of their response.
Know the name of the doctor who treated you.
Filing a Formal Complaint
You have the same rights as a Korean national
If you want to resolve the issue without a lawsuit, contact the Korea Medical Dispute Mediation and Arbitration Agency.
www.k-medi.or.kr/eng/
This is a free government-run service that can help you mediate a dispute with the clinic. They have multilingual services available.
If the dispute involves a consumer issue, contact the Korea Consumer Agency. They can assist in resolving disputes.
www.kca.go.kr/eng/main.do
If mediation is not successful or you believe you have a strong case for a civil lawsuit, consult a Korean lawyer who specializes in medical malpractice. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and file a claim for damages, including refunds, future treatment costs.
Stay safe. 🖤
Want to know more?
If you’d like to have a real-talk convo including more insights built from our team in Seoul, reach out for a Docent Consultation.
