South Korea is one of the sought-after spots for medical tourism. In particular, Korean plastic surgery clinics are internationally renowned for their advanced techniques and relatively affordable costs. Every year, thousands of foreign patients visit Korea for cosmetic procedures.

However, like all medical interventions, plastic surgery carries risks. Some patients suffer from medical accidents or unsatisfactory results, leading to physical, emotional, and financial harm.

This article outlines what legal rights foreign patients have when they experience plastic surgery malpractice in Korea or unexpected outcomes after undergoing treatment in Korea—and how they can pursue compensation based on Korean law and actual court precedents.