How to Verify a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in South Korea: A Step-by-Step Guide

As a cosmetic surgery clinic in Seoul, we are proud to be part of a medical community known for its innovation and skill.

However, we also understand that for international patients, navigating the world of Korea plastic surgery can be overwhelming.

The most critical step in ensuring your safety and achieving a beautiful result is choosing the right surgeon.
But how can you be sure your doctor has the relevant credentials?
This guide will provide you with the official tools and knowledge to verify any South Korea plastic surgeon, ensuring you make an informed and safe choice for your journey.

The Critical Difference: "Plastic Surgeon" vs. "Facial Cosmetic Doctor" in Korea

Before we begin, it's essential to understand a key distinction.
In Korea, the title Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon is a legally protected title.
To earn it, a doctor must:

1. Complete 6 years of medical school.
2. Pass the national medical licensing exam.
3. Complete a 1-year internship.
4. Complete a 4-year, full-time residency specifically in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at a university-affiliated hospital.
5. Pass a rigorous board certification exam.

Any other doctor offering cosmetic procedures—such as a general practitioner (GP), dermatologist, or another specialist—is not a board-certified plastic surgeon. While they may be skilled in non-invasive treatments, they have not undergone the same extensive, multi-year surgical training focused exclusively on the principles of plastic surgery, wound care, and facial anatomy.

How to Verify a Korean Doctor's Credentials in 3 Easy Steps

When you visit a doctor's website, you'll likely find their official bio, like this one.
However, if you want to independently verify their credentials through other official websites, here’s how.

Step 1: Find the Doctor's Full Name on the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons Website

You can verify his certification on the official website of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Please switch the language to English, and then, as shown in the image below, follow the steps to search for “Nk Park”.

Step 2: Check for Membership in The Aesthetic Society (USA) as an International Member

Only board-certified plastic surgeons are eligible for membership in The Aesthetic Society; general practitioners, dermatologists, or other non-specialists cannot join.

Dr. Nk Park in International member for The Aesthetic Society
The Aesthetic Society (formerly known as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery or ASAPS) is an international professional society for board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in cosmetic surgery.

Membership Requirements:
To become a member, surgeons must meet stringent criteria.

• For U.S. and Canadian Surgeons:
  • Surgeons in the United States must be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
  • Surgeons in Canada must be certified in plastic surgery by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
• For Surgeons Outside the U.S. and Canada (International Active Members):
  • They must be board-certified plastic surgeons officially recognized in their own country.
  • International applicants typically require letters of recommendation and must pass a rigorous screening process.
• Additional Requirements for All Members:
  • Must have been in practice as a plastic surgeon for at least one year.
  • Must be sponsored by two current members of The Aesthetic Society.
  • Must focus their practice primarily on aesthetic (cosmetic) plastic surgery.
  • Must adhere to the society's strict Code of Ethics.

Verifying the Clinic: Two More Essential Checks

Beyond the doctor's personal credentials, you should also verify the clinic itself.

Check 1: Is the Clinic Registered to Treat Foreign Patients?

The Korean government maintains a registration system for medical institutions that are certified to serve international patients. This ensures the clinic meets specific standards for safety, insurance, and administrative support for foreign visitors.

1. Go to the official Medical Korea website

   

2. Use the “Registered Hospital" search feature and type the name of the clinic (e.g., noonopi)

   

A registered clinic will appear in the search results, giving you an added layer of confidence.
How to check if a clinic is a registered institution for serving foreign patients in Korea.

Conclusion: Your Safety is the First Priority

South Korea has thousands of talented and ethical doctors. However, as a patient, your most important responsibility is to do your own due diligence. 

Marketing can be confusing, but official credentials are clear and verifiable.
By using the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently verify any Korean doctor and ensure you are placing your trust—and your face—in the hands of a true, board-certified Korean plastic surgeon. Your safety is always the most important consideration.