Big Take Asia South Korea Has Plenty of Botox But Not Enough Doctors
8 snips
Jan 14, 2025 Join K. Oanh Ha, a senior reporter at Bloomberg specializing in South Korea's medical tourism, as she delves into the booming demand for cosmetic procedures in the country. With 600,000 medical tourists flocking to South Korea in 2023, Oanh discusses the striking paradox of a Botox boom amid a shortage of qualified doctors. She explores the cultural significance of beauty treatments, the impact on the healthcare system, and personal stories from those seeking affordable enhancements. It’s a fascinating look at beauty, health, and economic pressures.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Affordable Beauty Treatments in Korea
- Julie Miller, a stay-at-home mom, flew to South Korea for cosmetic treatments.
- She saved about half the US cost, despite travel expenses.
Medical Tourism Boom
- South Korea's medical tourism is booming, with a record 600,000 visitors in 2023.
- About half of these tourists seek dermatology or plastic surgery, driven by K-beauty trends.
Doctor Shortage vs. Medical Tourism
- South Korea faces a doctor shortage, especially in emergency rooms and critical care.
- This shortage contrasts sharply with the rise of lucrative medical tourism.