Is this really the case? You open REDnote, Dcard, or Google and search for “Recommended dermatology clinics in Myeongdong”, and a bunch of results appear. Both Lienjang and PPEUM have received positive reviews, but their approaches are completely different. How do you know which one to choose?
To be honest, you’re not the only one who is confused about this. I spent an entire afternoon comparing the prices, services, equipment, and offerings of these two places, and only then did I realize that they are not at all the same type of dermatology clinics. One is a high-end anti-aging center in Myeongdong, while the other offers more affordable services – their target market segments are completely different, with a tenfold difference in their positioning.
In a nutshell: Lienjang specializes in advanced anti-aging treatments such as Thermage FLX, titanium Lifting, and the American version of HIFU, making it ideal for those who demand high-quality results and have sufficient budget; PPEUM, on the other hand, offers entry-level treatments at an affordable price—just 9,900 won for hyaluronic acid injections—perfect for first-time visitors to Korea who want to try these treatments at a low cost. Neither option is inherently better or worse; it all depends on your current needs and circumstances.
Let’s quickly get to know two companies: one is a well-established high-end chain, and the other offers affordable entry into the beauty industry.
Lienjang Liyan Dermatology Clinic (Myeongdong Branch)
When it comes to Lienjang, it is a well-established brand in the anti-aging industry in Korea, with six branches spread throughout Seoul. The Myeongdong branch is located on the 5th floor of the ZARA building, opposite Lotte Young Plaza. It is designed as a high-end “Premium Lounge” – equipped with the same advanced facilities as the main Gangnam branch.
What are the flagship products of their Myeongdong store? The American version of Thermage FLX, Soprano Titanium Lifting, and the American version of Ulthera ultrasound lifting devices – all of these are the most expensive and advanced anti-aging technologies available on the market, not some cheap alternatives from Korea. The team leading this clinic includes former dermatologists from Seoul National University Hospital, and it consists of a team of over a hundred physicians. These treatments are also certified by both the FDA and KFDA.
We offer services in three languages: Chinese, English, and Korean. We also support Alipay and WeChat Pay. Among our over 500,000 customers, a large proportion are from China. What’s the downside? The prices are indeed not cheap – but compared to similar services in Gangnam, Lienjang in Myeongdong is actually 30% to 50% cheaper.
📍 5th Floor, ZARA Building, No. 14 Myeongdong-ro (opposite Lotte Young Plaza) 🚇 About a 5-minute wa
lk from Myeongdong Station or Eulji-ro Entrance Station
PPEUM Myeongdong Store
PPEUM represents the other extreme in the field of medical aesthetics in Myeongdong – it offers all services in Chinese, with prices that are incredibly affordable (just 9,900 won is enough to try hyaluronic acid injections), and it is also located in an excellent spot (just a minute’s walk from Exit 6 of Eupji-ro Station). Its mission is clear: to enable people visiting Korea for the first time to experience medical aesthetics at the lowest possible cost.
In terms of medical beauty treatments, PPEUM’s glow injections, Korean-style ultrasonic scalpels, and Thermage treatments are all very popular, and discounts are often offered. The services are provided entirely in Chinese, making them suitable for those with no prior knowledge of Korean. What are the drawbacks, then? The equipment used by PPEUM is not as advanced as that of Lienjang – for example, PPEUM uses Korean-style ultrasonic scalpels instead of the American Ulthera device, which results in differences in the depth and technical complexity of anti-aging treatments.
Price comparison: For the same treatment, the price difference can be as much as 10 times.
This is the aspect that most people are concerned about. Let me present it in a table for a more intuitive comparison:
| project | Lianjiang Liyan Chang | PPEUM |
|---|---|---|
| Thermage (for the face) | Personalized FLX 300 units: ₩2.99 million | Korean version of OLIGIO: Starting from ₩220,000 |
| Ultrasonic lifting | The American version of the Ulthera Prime with 300 shots: ₩1.79 million | Korean-style ultrasonic scalpel: Starting from ₩99,000 |
| Titanium Lifting | 80KJ full-face treatment: ₩1.2 million | This project is not currently available. |
| Hydrofiller injections | Basic Glow Toner, 2 mL: ¥80,000 | Basic Glow Experience: ₩9,900 |
| Botulinum toxin (for the Masseter) | Botox 50u: ₩560,000 | Korean-made Wondertox: ₩50,000 |
| 1 centum core of Filler | Joayadan: ₩560,000 | Korean brands: ₩50,000 to 100,000 |
| Gold microneedling | Potenza Full Face Treatment: ₩240,000 | Korean-style microneedling: ₩80,000 to 100,000 |
After looking at this table, you should understand that Lienjang’s projects use top-tier original equipment and original medications (American versions of Thermage, Ulthera, Botox, and Jovain) at premium prices; whereas PPEUM uses Korean-made equipment and medications, keeping its prices at an entry-level level. The price difference between the two represents not competition at the same level, but rather completely different market positioning strategies.
Multi-dimensional comparison: It’s not just about price; positioning, services, and equipment also vary significantly.
| dimension | Lienjang | PPEUM |
|---|---|---|
| Brand positioning | Premium Anti-Aging Center | Affordable Access Point |
| Date of establishment | In 2004, over 20 years ago… | relatively new |
| Chain scale | 6-hospital chain | Single store/small quantity |
| Device level | Original US models (Thermage FLX/Ulthera Prime) | Primarily using Korean-made equipment. |
| medical team | A team of 100 physicians, formerly from Seoul National University Hospital | No barriers to communication in Chinese. |
| Chinese services | There is a Chinese translation available. | Full Chinese-language services (Chinese/English/Japanese/Thai) |
| Payment methods | Alipay/WeChat/Cash/Card | Alipay/WeChat/Cash/Card |
| Difficulty in making appointments | It is recommended to book 1-2 weeks in advance (popular services are often fully booked). | 3 to 5 days in advance |
| Entry-level price | Basic projects: Starting from ₩50,000 to ₩80,000. | Starting from ¥99,900 |
| Suitable for | Pursuing optimal results, having sufficient budget, and having a need for anti-aging treatments | First attempt, limited budget, focus on the experience |
Pitfalls I’ve encountered: What should you pay attention to before choosing these two companies?
Trap 1: The price gimmick of adding projects at the last minute
When making an appointment, you may be told that only the glow injection is needed, but upon arrival at the clinic, you might be advised to add additional treatments—especially PPEUM. Since the cost of these additional services is relatively low, it’s easy to think “adding one more won’t cost much”, but in reality, the total amount can easily exceed 9,900.
→ How to avoid it: Clearly state all the treatments you want to undergo at the time of booking, and ask the provider to write down the total cost. Avoid adding additional items at the store once you arrive.
Trap 2: The Myth of Device Versions
The Lienjang Myeongdong branch is a Premium Lounge that uses original American equipment; however, some Korean dermatologists claim that the “Thermage” devices actually use the Korean version of Oligio. The advantage of choosing Lienjang is that you don’t have to worry about this issue—they dare to label their equipment as “FLX,” which means it truly is FLX. PPEUM’s Thermage devices are also of the Korean version; while they are cheaper, the effectiveness and duration of the results are indeed inferior.
→ How to avoid it: Make sure to ask about the brand and model of the device; don’t let the name “Thermage” fool you.
Trap 3: The Illusion of Language Services
PPEUM offers very stable Chinese language support; although Lienjang also supports Chinese, the translation function might not be available at certain times. It is recommended to have Papago as a backup, especially when discussing detailed information with doctors.
→ How to avoid this: Before going to Lienjang, make sure in advance whether the Chinese translator is available, or bring a friend who knows Korean.
Advantages and disadvantages in one sentence
| Advantages of Lienjang | Disadvantages of Lienjang |
|---|---|
| Top-of-the-line equipment: American version of Thermage FLX/Ulthera Prime | High price: Similar services are 5 to 10 times more expensive than those offered by PPEUM. |
| A 20-year-old anti-aging brand with a chain of 6 hospitals – all guarantees of quality. | Popular treatments are in high demand, so it’s best to book 1-2 weeks in advance. |
| Former dermatologist from Seoul National University Hospital now practicing in private practice | Chinese-language services are not necessarily available 24/7. |
| We support Alipay and WeChat for convenient payments. | There are few introductory options available, such as basic glow treatments. |
Who are these two options suitable for, and who are they not suitable for?
| dimension | Perfect for Lienjang | Suitable for PPEUM |
|---|---|---|
| Requirements | If you want to comprehensively combat aging, consider the combination of Thermage, Titanium Lifting, and Ultrasound Knife. | Want to experience medical beauty treatments at the lowest cost? Just 9,900 yuan for hyaluronic acid injections! |
| budget | Over ¥2 million – we prioritize quality results rather than the lowest price. | For prices under ¥1.0 million, I’d like to give it a try with a small investment. |
| language | Those with basic English or Korean skills, or those who have their own translation apps, please feel free to proceed. | We absolutely do not accept situations where communication is impossible – using only Chinese is the most reliable option. |
| Experience | I have already undergone cosmetic procedures and know exactly what treatments I want. | This is my first time coming to South Korea for cosmetic procedures; I have no experience at all. |
How should people in different situations make their choices?
I have listed the four most common scenarios and you can simply match them to your own situation:
- If you have specific anti-aging needs (such as loose skin, desire for firming and Lifting effects, with a budget of over ¥3 million), consider Lienjang – the combination of the American version of Thermage FLX and titanium Lifting technology. This is currently one of the most powerful anti-aging options available in Myeongdong. If your budget allows, adding the American version of Ulthera ultrasound Lifting will further enhance the results.
- If this is your first time coming to South Korea for cosmetic procedures and you want to try it out at the lowest cost, consider PPEUM – the trial price of 9,900 won for the glow injection is practically the lowest in Myeongdong. With all services provided in Chinese, you won’t face any communication barriers. You can always upgrade your treatment if you’re satisfied with the results.
- If your budget ranges from ¥910,000 to ¥2 million and you are considering undertaking one or two cosmetic procedures, here are some considerations: For minor cosmetic treatments such as hyaluronic acid injections or botulinum toxin injections, PPEUM offers better value for money; whereas for photorejuvenation treatments like Thermage or Ulthera, although Lienjang is more expensive, it uses original equipment, ensuring more reliable results.
- If you only want to have Filler injections, the Korean brand PPEUM offers this service for around 95,000 to 100,000 yuan, while Lianjang’s Jovain costs 560,000 yuan – a difference of five times. However, when it comes to Filler injections, you确实 get what you pay for; Jovain indeed offers a longer-lasting effect and a more natural look.
My conclusion is: If it were me, I would make the same choice.
To be honest, Lienjang and PPEUM aren’t competing in terms of which one is better or worse; they represent two completely different approaches.
- Looking for in-depth anti-aging treatments, seeking tangible results, and having a sufficient budget? Lienjang is your perfect choice – equipped with original American-made devices, a 20-year-established brand, and a team of experienced physicians.
- If you want to experience a variety of treatments at the lowest cost and are visiting Korea for the first time → PPEUM (starting price of 9,900 won, all services provided in Chinese; it only takes 1 minute to get to the subway station).
- If you want to undergo Thermage treatment but have a limited budget, the Korean version of PPEUM can meet your basic needs. However, don’t expect it to achieve the same results as the American version of FLX.
- Looking to solve all anti-aging issues in one go? → The Lienjang Thermage FLX + Titanium Lifting + Ulthera combination takes care of it all in one step.
It is recommended that you check the schedules and latest prices of both clinics on BeautsGO before your trip to determine which one better suits your schedule and budget. For the popular treatments at Lienjang, it is necessary to make reservations 1-2 weeks in advance; otherwise, you may find that it is impossible to get a spot once you arrive in South Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which one is closer to the Myeongdong subway station, Lienjang or PPEUM?
A: PPEUM is even more convenient – you can reach it in just 1 minute by walking from Exit 6 of the Ikchil-ro entrance station. Lienjang is also easily accessible; it’s only about a 5-minute walk from Myeongdong Station (5th floor of the ZARA store at 14 Myeongdong-ro).
Q: Do both of them offer Chinese-language services?
A: PPEUM has a dedicated team that provides services entirely in Chinese, supporting both Chinese, English, Japanese, and Thai languages—so communication is completely seamless. Lienjang also offers Chinese-language services (with a Chinese version of their official website), but the translation service might not be available at certain times. It’s recommended to have Papago as a backup option.
Q: Which one offers a cheaper price?
A: PPEUM offers more discount promotions and lower entry prices (for example, the trial price for hyaluronic acid injections is only 9,900). However, Lienjang also provides affordable options for basic treatments (such as Korean-brand Filler starting from 230,000, or the InMode FX full-face treatment for 130,000). Nevertheless, its high-end anti-aging treatments are indeed 5 to 10 times more expensive than those at PPEUM—because it uses original equipment.
Q: What are the differences between Lienjang’s Myeongdong store and Gangnam store?
A: Both the Myeongdong store and the Gangnam store fall under the “Premium Lounge” category and share the same equipment (such as Thermage FLX and the American version of Ulthera Prime). However, the prices at the Myeongdong store are 30% to 50% lower than those at the Gangnam store. If you live in the vicinity of Myeongdong, there is no need to go to Gangnam at all.
Q: Is it necessary to make an appointment in advance?
A: Both are necessary! PPEUM recommends making reservations 3 to 5 days in advance, while for the popular services at Lienjang, it is advisable to book 1 to 2 weeks in advance (especially during the peak periods when the director is available for consultations). Reservations for both institutions can be made through BeautsGO.
Q: Is it possible to visit both places on the same day?
A: Theoretically, it is possible – PPEUM offers hyaluronic acid injections/fundamental laser treatments, while Lienjang provides Thermage/titanium Lifting procedures. However, it is recommended to wait at least 3–4 hours between the two treatments to allow the skin sufficient time to recover. The distance between the two clinics is approximately 5–7 minutes on foot.
For further reading
If you’re still hesitating about which dermatology clinic to choose, these articles should be of some help to you:
- Which is more suitable for beginners – Myeongdong LIJIN or PPEUM Dermatology? I’ve been to both, and to be honest… when comparing them side by side, this is definitely something beginners should consider.
- Top 5 Recommendations for Skin Clinics in Myeongdong | Latest Reviews from Foreign Visitors in 2026 – Check These Before Choosing a Clinic
- Must-visit dermatology clinics in Myeongdong: LIJIN, DAN-A, REBERRY — Discover how to choose from other high-end clinics in Myeongdong.
- Going to Myeongdong for your first dermatology treatment? A must-read guide for beginners (2026 complete edition) – From making an appointment to the after-treatment period, everything you need to know in one place.
- How much does the upgraded Ulthera device cost in Myeongdong? I have compiled quotes from 3 clinics – if you’re considering getting an Ulthera treatment, it’s worth checking the prices first.