Beauty and Balance in South Korea's Medical Tourism

This chapter examines the rise of medical tourism in South Korea, specifically in cosmetic procedures like Botox, amidst a healthcare crisis marked by a shortage of critical care doctors. It details the allure of Korean beauty standards fueled by K-pop culture and the government's efforts to attract international patients. The discussion reveals the paradox of a booming cosmetic surgery market in Gangnam against the backdrop of ongoing protests from resident doctors regarding wages and working conditions.