No. Korea's VAT refund for foreign patients on cosmetic and dermatology procedures ended on 31 December 2025, so treatments in 2026 are no longer eligible. The scheme had run since 2016. Standard tax-free refunds for retail shopping still exist. At Re:berry Hongdae, your treatment cost is confirmed in writing at consultation.
Re:berry Clinic Hongdae · Information reviewed for accuracy · Results vary by individual.
What was the medical VAT refund?
From 2016, Korea offered foreign visitors a refund of the value-added tax paid on certain cosmetic and aesthetic medical procedures, such as many skin and plastic surgery treatments at participating clinics. The scheme was designed to support medical tourism. It was a temporary measure that was extended several times before ending on 31 December 2025.
What does this mean in 2026?
Treatments received in 2026 are not eligible for the former medical VAT refund. If you see older blog posts or social media guides describing the refund process, they may be out of date. When comparing costs between clinics or planning a budget, assume that the price quoted is what you will pay, unless a clinic states otherwise in writing. See our guide on VAT refund for skin treatments in 2026.
Why did the refund end?
The medical VAT refund was introduced as a time-limited incentive and was reviewed periodically by the Korean government. It was not extended beyond 2025. For patients, the practical effect is simple: budget for the full quoted price, including VAT where it applies, and compare clinics based on written plans rather than expected refunds. Cost comparisons in older guides may understate what you pay today.
Is tax-free shopping still available?
Yes. Korea's tax-free shopping system for eligible retail purchases, such as cosmetics and fashion at participating stores, continues to operate separately from the medical refund. Rules on minimum spend and refund methods apply, so check the store or official tourism information.
Tips for paying at a clinic
- Ask for a written plan with the full cost before treatment
- Request an itemized receipt in case you need it for your own records
- Check whether your card charges foreign transaction fees
- Read paying at the clinic for card and cash information
Pricing at Re:berry Hongdae
Pricing depends on treatment, area, shot count and plan, and is confirmed in writing at consultation. Re:berry's approach is diagnosis before packages, so plans are built around your needs. Book via our Booking page.
At a glance
- Medical VAT refund: Ended on 31 December 2025
- Introduced: 2016, for foreign patients' cosmetic procedures
- 2026 treatments: Not eligible for the former refund
- Retail tax-free: Still available for eligible shopping
- Good to know: Ask for an itemized receipt for your records
Related questions
Can I still get a refund for treatments received in 2025?
Eligibility depended on the treatment date and the rules and deadlines of the scheme at the time. If you had treatment before the end of 2025, check with the clinic where you were treated and the refund operator about any remaining options and deadlines.
Are skincare products bought at the clinic tax-free?
Retail tax-free eligibility depends on whether a business is registered for the tax-free shopping scheme and on purchase rules. Ask the clinic directly. Medical treatments themselves are no longer covered by the former medical VAT refund. Keep receipts for your records.
Will Korea bring the medical VAT refund back?
Government policy can change, but as of 2026 the scheme has ended. Check official Korean government or tourism sources for the latest information before your trip rather than relying on older guides. Clinics cannot apply the old refund to treatments received in 2026.
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Before you book
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Suitability, dose, number of sessions and expected results are decided by a doctor at consultation, and results vary by individual. Possible side effects include redness, swelling and bruising. Pricing is confirmed in writing before any treatment. See our medical disclaimer.
Still have a question?
A doctor at Re:berry Clinic Hongdae can answer it for your skin specifically. Multilingual consultation support is available.