Licensed Korean clinics are required to use products approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), and most reputable clinics use genuine devices and injectables. Still, it is reasonable to check. At Re:berry Hongdae, you can ask to see sealed product packaging, device tips or cartridges, and ask how authenticity is verified before treatment.
Re:berry Clinic Hongdae · Information reviewed for accuracy · Results vary by individual.
Why do people ask this question?
Korea is known for competitive pricing, and travelers sometimes worry that low prices mean counterfeit or diluted products. There have been reports worldwide, not only in Korea, of fake fillers, refurbished device tips and unapproved toxins. The good news is that Korean regulation is strict, and licensed clinics face penalties for using unapproved products. Checking is simply part of being an informed patient.
How can I check products at my appointment?
Injectables
- Ask to see the box or syringe before it is opened, with the brand, product name and lot number visible.
- Check that the package is sealed and in date.
- For boosters such as Rejuran, ask which variant is being used.
Energy devices
- Devices such as Ultherapy, Thermage FLX and Sofwave use branded tips, cartridges or transducers with usage counters or authentication.
- Ask whether a new tip is being used and how many shots are included. See What is a shot count and why does it matter?
What are the warning signs?
- Prices far below typical market levels for branded devices
- Reluctance to show packaging or explain products
- Treatment by people who are not medical staff
- Unclear shot counts or quantities
- No written quote or record of what was used
What about botulinum toxin brands?
Korea produces several MFDS-approved botulinum toxin brands alongside imported ones. Both can be genuine and effective; what matters is that the product is approved, stored correctly and dosed by a doctor. Ask which brand is planned and why, and whether the dose is being diluted for a specific technique such as skin Botox.
How Re:berry approaches this
Re:berry applies the same consultation and treatment standards at every branch, and pricing is confirmed in writing at consultation so you know what is planned. You are welcome to ask questions about products before treatment. For more on choosing a clinic, read Choosing a Safe Clinic in Korea and How do I check if a Korean clinic is licensed?
At a glance
- Regulator: Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS)
- What to ask: To see sealed packaging, labels and lot numbers
- Devices: Ask about genuine handpieces, tips and cartridges
- Red flags: Unusually low prices, refusal to show products
- Your right: Ask questions before treatment begins
Related questions
Are Korean fillers and boosters safe?
Many Korean-made fillers and boosters are MFDS-approved and widely used. Safety depends on using approved products correctly, by trained doctors. Ask which brand is used and why it suits your area. Your doctor can explain the approval status of the specific product planned for you.
Can I ask to see the product box?
Yes. It is a reasonable request at a reputable clinic. Staff can usually show you the sealed product before treatment and tell you the brand and quantity. Asking also gives you a chance to note the product name for your own records and for any future treatments.
Does a low price mean a fake product?
Not necessarily, as competition keeps Korean prices lower. But unusually low prices for branded devices can signal fewer shots, reused tips or non-genuine products. Ask detailed questions and get the plan in writing. Comparing what is included matters more than the headline price.
Keep reading
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.