Is ICL cheaper in Korea?

Why People Travel to Korea for ICL Surgery

South Korea has become one of Asia’s most popular destinations for vision correction — not just for LASIK and SMILE, but also for ICL surgery (Implantable Collamer Lens).

Patients from Australia, the U.S., Singapore, and the Middle East often choose Seoul because clinics here combine:
✅ Advanced technology (EVO+ ICL, Toric ICL)
✅ Experienced ophthalmic surgeons
✅ Lower overall costs than in Western countries
✅ English-speaking international care teams

But is it actually cheaper to get ICL in Korea? Let’s look at the numbers.

Average Cost of ICL Surgery in Korea (2025)

The typical ICL price range in Seoul is around ₩5,000,000 to ₩7,500,000 KRW (roughly USD $3,400–$5,500 for both eyes).

Breakdown by clinic type:

• 💠 Mid-tier Seoul clinics: ₩4.5–5.5 million KRW per eye
• 💎 Premium eye centers (Gangnam/Apgujeong): ₩6–8 million KRW per eye (especially for EVO+ or Toric ICL lenses)
• 🩺 University-affiliated hospitals: Similar range but with longer wait times and less English support

In comparison:

• 🇺🇸 United States: USD $7,000–$9,000 for both eyes
• 🇦🇺 Australia: USD $6,500–$8,000
• 🇸🇬 Singapore: USD $5,500–$6,500
• 🇪🇺 Europe (average): USD $6,000–$8,500

That means you could save anywhere from USD $2,000–$4,000 by getting ICL in Seoul — even after accounting for flights and hotels.

Why It’s More Affordable in Korea

1. High surgical volume: Korean clinics perform thousands of ICL surgeries each year, allowing them to keep costs competitive.
2. Local manufacturing and partnerships: Some lens distribution and diagnostics are handled locally, lowering import expenses.
3. Streamlined procedures: Korea’s private healthcare sector runs efficiently, with bundled packages for diagnostics, surgery, and post-op care.
4. Fierce competition in Seoul: With dozens of top-rated vision centers, clinics often provide promotions or discounted international packages.

Things That Affect the Final Price

Before assuming you’ll get the lowest quote, consider:

• Type of lens used (standard ICL vs EVO+ Toric ICL)
• Surgeon’s credentials and surgical experience
• Inclusions (pre-operative tests, anesthesia, post-op visits, medications)
• Whether you’re paying cash, card, or via medical tourism program
• Travel costs (airfare, accommodation, meals)
• How many follow-ups you’ll need before flying home

When “Cheaper” Might Not Be Better

It’s tempting to pick the clinic offering the lowest price, but for ICL — quality and safety come first.

Ask your clinic:

• What lens brand and model are included in the quote?
• How many ICL surgeries has the surgeon performed?
• What happens if I develop high eye pressure or need an enhancement?
• Do you offer English-language after-care and reports for my local eye doctor?

Reputable Seoul clinics like BGSS Eye Clinic, B&VIIT Eye Center, GS Eye Clinic, and Gangnam Smile Eye Clinic offer transparent pricing and post-op plans for international patients — so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Is It Worth Flying to Korea for ICL?

In most cases, yes — especially if:

• You combine your surgery with a short trip (3–5 days stay in Seoul)
• You plan to get both eyes done
• You confirm your suitability with a local ophthalmologist before booking

Even after flights and hotel, the total bill is often lower than getting ICL at home, and you’ll be treated by surgeons who specialize in high-volume refractive procedures using the latest technology.

Final Thoughts

ICL surgery in Korea offers a balance of affordability, precision, and experience. While costs are lower, the quality of care remains world-class.

If you’re ready to correct your vision without laser, consider scheduling a consultation at an English-friendly Seoul clinic.
You’ll see clearly — and save money, too.