How to choose an HIFU provider in Myeongdong? A comprehensive comparison of DAN-A, REBERRY, UMI, and jd – prices and doctors listed all in one place.

“Which clinic in Myeongdong offers HIFU treatments?” This is probably the question I get asked the most.

To be honest, there are no fewer than ten clinics in the Myeongdong area that offer HIFU treatments, with prices ranging from 9.2 million to 9.8 million won. Many people who visit for the first time have no idea how to choose which clinic to go to.

To write this article, I thoroughly researched all the information available about the four most highly discussed clinics in Myeongdong: DAN-A, REBERRY, UMI, and JD Dermatology. I gathered details such as official website prices, the backgrounds of their directors, the models of their equipment, the reservation processes, and customer reviews, and have organized them below. Without further delay, let’s take a look at the comparison table 👇

🔍 I have identified 4 key criteria for selecting HIFU clinics.

Before we start the comparison, let me first explain my own selection criteria. Since each clinic has its own strengths, if you value the following four aspects just as much as I do, this article should be of great help to you.

• ① The device must be the Ulthrea version: The Ulthrea HIFU (FDA-approved) differs from the Korean HIFU systems such as Shurink in terms of effectiveness, safety, and durability. If your budget permits, it is recommended to choose the Ulthrea version.
• ② Performed personally by the director: HIFU is not a procedure that can be performed simply by a nurse. The depth of energy delivery, the distribution of treatment sessions, and the precise avoidance of nerves—all these aspects rely on the doctor’s expertise and experience.
• ③ Transparent pricing without hidden fees: Some clinics charge additional fees on-site, while some packages include unnecessary services. I prefer clinics that clearly display all prices on their official websites.
• ④ Friendly service for foreigners: Since HIFU involves energy settings and post-treatment care, the risk of communication barriers is higher compared to other treatments.

📊 A comprehensive comparison of four HIFU devices

Below is a comparison I have compiled by gathering quotes from four official websites, third-party platforms, and those obtained through direct inquiries:

▲ The prices listed above are for reference only; the actual fees will be determined on-site at the respective institutions. For a complete list of prices, please refer to the dedicated price articles provided by each institution.

🏥 DAN-A Dermatology — Consistently rated as the most trustworthy in the industry

In my opinion, DAN-A is the “safe choice” for HIFU treatments in Myeongdong. While affordability is not its main selling point (prices start at ⩲450,000 won, which is considered mid-range), its overall experience and the reviews from foreigners make it the most reliable option among the four current providers in the area.

Vice President Pei Zaihe’s approach is precisely what constitutes its core competitive advantage. He is not the kind of doctor who simply performs the procedure quickly and then leaves—instead, he takes the time to analyze the structure of your face before deciding how many hairs should be implanted in each area. This aspect has been repeatedly mentioned in reviews on Naver and Cashdoc.

• Suitable for: Those who are doing HIFU for the first time, value communication with doctors, and prefer comprehensive Chinese-language services.
• Not very suitable for those who are interested in getting the lowest price or want to make an on-the-spot appointment with a popular doctor (appointments for such doctors usually need to be reserved in advance).

🏥 REBERRY — The best environment at a moderate price

REBERRY is considered one of the most visually appealing clinics in Dermatology in Myeongdong. With its Japanese-style, creamy decor, the entire experience from entering the clinic to relaxing in the lounge area feels like a spa treatment. The prices start at ₩490,000, which is slightly higher than DAN-A’s rates, but the overall ambiance and service definitely make it worth the extra cost.

Dean Baek specializes in the use of the Ulthrea and enjoys a certain level of recognition within the Chinese beauty community. He places particular emphasis on the concept of “layered lifting” – rather than applying uniform energy to the entire face, different depths are set for specific areas such as the jawline, Apple Zone, and Forehead. The price list of REBERRY is also quite transparent, being openly available on its official website.

• Suitable for: people who care about their environmental experience, those who feel nervous about their first cosmetic procedure, and those who want to relax in a comfortable atmosphere.
• Not quite suitable for: practical individuals who prioritize extreme cost-effectiveness and are unwilling to pay a premium for environmental considerations.

🏥 UMI Dermatology — The most popular choice, available in both Korean and Chinese versions

UMI is the only one among the four institutions that offers both the American version of Ultherapy and the Korean version of Shurink Universe. This represents a significant advantage for those with limited budgets – you can start by trying the Korean version for just ⩩198,000 KRW per 300 treatments, and upgrade to the American version if you are satisfied with the results.

Director Yin Zhongyu possesses 18 years of clinical experience in Dermatology and is known for his steady approach and reluctance to engage in excessive sales tactics. Those who have actually visited his clinic generally report that the consultation process is very comfortable, without any pressure to purchase unnecessary treatment packages.

⚠️ However, it is important to note that the starting price of UMI’s Ulthrea HIFU, which is ₩539,000 for 300 treatments, makes it actually the most expensive option among the four available options. If you are only interested in basic facial Lifting and do not seek extreme results, it is recommended to start with the Korean version instead.

• Suitable for: Those with flexible budgets who want to compare the differences between the American and Korean versions of these services, and those who prefer private clinics that aren’t crowded.
• Not very suitable: If you only want to opt for the American version but have a limited budget (there are cheaper alternatives available).

🏥 JD Dermatology — A true veteran in the medical beauty industry with the highest cost-performance ratio

The JD Dermatology clinic in Myeongdong is located on the 6th floor of the Goryeo Building on Namdamun-ro. It is one of the first clinics in South Korea to introduce the Ulthrea HIFU device. Director Kim Yong-jae (PhD from Seoul National University) possesses over 40 years of clinical experience and is a true expert in the field of anti-aging treatments.

The biggest advantage lies in the price: the Ulthrea starts at ₩300,000 for 100 treatments, making it the lowest entry-level option among the four options available. The clinic is equipped with over twenty advanced devices, including Thermage FLX, Inmode Inmode, and Pico lasers, making it a true “equipment arsenal” clinic.

It doesn’t follow the refined design approach of DAN-A or REBERRY – its decor is more practical and doesn’t feature the trendy, internet-famous style. However, for those who want to get the most out of their investment with the least expense, this place is perfect. The prices are the same as those in South Korea, the official website provides clear pricing information, and reservations can be made directly through WeChat (ID: WRB0826).

• Suitable for: Those with limited budgets but who prefer high-quality medical equipment, are not concerned about decoration, and value the experience of experienced doctors.
• Not very suitable for: beginners who value the environmental atmosphere and seek a sense of “security” when undergoing their first cosmetic procedure.

💡 For different budgets and requirements, which company should be chosen?

In the end, none of these four options is absolutely the “best” one; there is only the one that “fits you best.” Let me help you identify which one suits you by considering three common scenarios:

• If your budget is around ₩300,000 and you only want equipment of the Ulthrea type, then jd Dermatology is the right choice. Ulthrea devices priced from ₩300,000 onward are almost the cheapest in Myeongdong, and Director Kim Young-jae’s 40 years of experience are also a great guarantee. However, you should be prepared that the facilities there are not particularly luxurious or upscale.
• If your budget ranges from ₩450,000 to ₩550,000 and you value the overall experience, consider DAN-A or REBERRY. DAN-A is suitable for those who place emphasis on communication with doctors (Vice President Pei Zahe will take the time to analyze your facial features in detail), while REBERRY is ideal for those who value the overall atmosphere of the treatment (after the procedure, you’ll feel as if you’ve visited a high-end spa).
• If you’re not sure whether to go with the American version or the Korean version, and want to test the waters first – choose UMI. It is the only institution that offers both American and Korean versions. The Korean version of Shurink 300 costs just ₩198,000. You can always upgrade to the American version if you’re satisfied with the results.
• If this is your first time experiencing medical aesthetics and you have no idea what to expect, it’s recommended that you first check the complete rankings of the top 5 Dermatology clinics in Myeongdong before coming back to read this comparison article.

🗳️ If it were me, I would choose this one.

To be honest, in the end, I chose DAN-A. The reason is simple: this isn’t my first time undergoing cosmetic procedures, so I know that what really matters to me isn’t the lowest price, but rather the quality of communication with the doctor and the sense of peace and confidence after the treatment.

But if my friend asked me: “I only have a budget of 300,000 yen, and I absolutely need American-made equipment,” I would recommend jd without hesitation. If she cares as much about the overall experience as I do, REBERRY would be the top choice.

Everyone’s situation is different. The key is to clarify your own priorities: price → doctor → environment → language. Once you have set your priorities, the answer will become clear.

📅 Next step: How to make a reservation?

No matter which clinic you choose, it is recommended that you check the availability on BeautsGO before making your appointment. Especially for popular doctors like Deputy Director DAN-A Bae Jae-hak and Director REBERRY Baek Seung-jae, it is very difficult to get a slot without booking 1-2 weeks in advance.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the differences between HIFU in Myeongdong and other areas of South Korea?

A: The advantages of Myeongdong are its concentration of medical institutions, fierce competition, and relatively transparent prices. However, the downside is that it is more difficult to schedule appointments with popular doctors due to the large number of tourists. If you are interested in specific doctors, such as Bae Jae-hak or Baek Seung-jae, it is recommended to book at least 2 weeks in advance.

Q: What are the differences between the Ulthrea and the Korean version of HIFU?

A: The American version of Ultherapy is FDA-approved and comes with real-time ultrasound imaging to guide the treatment, allowing you to see exactly which layer of the skin the energy is affecting. The effects last for 1 to 2 years. The Korean version of HIFU, such as Shurink, does not offer real-time imaging, and its control over the depth of energy application is less precise. Although it is cheaper, there are differences in both effectiveness and safety. If your budget allows, it is recommended to go with the American version.

Q: How many sessions of HIFU are required to be effective?

A: For a full face treatment, it is generally recommended to use 300–500 needles. Using only 100 needles is limited to partial areas such as the jawline, and the results will be modest. At jd, the price of ₩300,000 refers to the use of 100 needles; therefore, if you want a full face treatment, the actual cost will need to be multiplied by 3–5 times. DAN-A and REBERRY usually offer package prices that include enough needles for a basic full face treatment.

Q: How soon does HIFU take effect? Is there a recovery period needed?

A: HIFU basically has no recovery period; you can resume normal activities on the same day after the treatment. The effects are gradual: you will start to notice a tightening effect within 1-2 weeks, and the best results are achieved after 2-3 months. There may be slight redness or swelling after the procedure, but these usually subside within a few hours.

Q: Among these four companies, which one has the largest number of foreigners and the best communication?

A: All four companies offer Chinese-language services. DAN-A and REBERRY have the most experienced Chinese-speaking managers (full-time staff with standardized procedures). UMI provides friendly Chinese assistance, but it may not be available throughout the entire process. JD offers direct WeChat communication and a Chinese-speaking manager, but complex technical terms may still require translation assistance.

⚠️ When going to Myeongdong for HIFU treatment, here are some common pitfalls to avoid

• ⚠️ Confusing “HIFU” with “ultrasonic knife”: Many clinics refer to the Korean version of HIFU as “ultrasonic knife,” but only the American version of Ultherapy is truly an FDA-approved HIFU device. Be sure to verify the specific model of the equipment when making a reservation – don’t rely solely on the price.
• ⚠️ The number of treatments is deliberately reduced to cut costs: Some clinics quote very low prices (such as ₩200,000), but in reality, only 50–100 treatments are provided, resulting in almost no visible effect. It is recommended to ask clearly during the reservation process: “Does this price include a certain number of treatments? Will it be enough for the entire face?”
• ⚠️ Not to be performed by a physician: HIFU involves the delivery of deep-seated energy, and if it is carried out by a nurse or beautician instead of a physician, both safety and effectiveness cannot be guaranteed. Please confirm the identity of the person performing the procedure upon arrival.

📖 For further reading

If you are still hesitating about which Dermatology clinic to choose, these articles should be of some help to you:

• Comprehensive Guide to DAN-A Dermatology in Myeongdong | Prices, Reviews, Transportation, Reservations, and Popular Treatments – For a complete guide to DAN-A, click here for more details.
• Are the services at Myeongdong UMI Dermatology expensive? HIFU, Thermage, Rejuran… Get all 11 treatment options and their prices in one place – UMI’s comprehensive price list for various treatments.
• Who should you turn to for HIFU Lifting in Myeongdong? Lee Eun-ji vs. Ba Seung-jae vs. Bae Jae-hak: A comprehensive comparison of prices and techniques provided by these three clinic directors — This is the essential guide before choosing a doctor for such treatment.
• Top 5 Recommended Dermatology Clinics in Myeongdong — A compilation of the latest reviews from foreign tourists in 2026. Read this article first when considering which clinic to choose.
• Going to Dermatology in Myeongdong for the first time? A must-read guide for beginners — from making an appointment to the post-treatment period, everything you need to know in one place.