By 變美體驗官 Is the price different at Cellable153 Dermatology in South Korea compared to China? This question has been asked hundreds of times in women’s forums—“Is it because they offer Chinese-language services that locals have to pay more?” Instead of just making claims, we’ve compared the prices listed on the clinic’s signboard (shown below, taken from the display area at their store in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam, Seoul) with those quoted through Chinese booking channels, to find out if things are really as people think.
— On-site photos: Cellable153 store sign (Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam, Seoul) —
This is how we【reconcile accounts】
Let’s start with the methods, so no one can accuse us of being misleading:
The first step is to go to the clinic and take a photo of the price board in the display area (the one shown in the image below, where the prices for treatments and the number of hairs implanted are posted on the wall).
Step 2: Open the Chinese booking page (Cellable153 on BeautsGO) and copy down the quotes for the same set of services.
Step three: Place the two sets of figures side by side to check if there’s a dual pricing scenario where the price in Korean is lower while the price in Chinese is higher for the same item.
This comparison isn’t perfect—promotional prices and monthly packages change, but it’s sufficient to determine whether there’s a systematic price increase.
By the way, here’s a point that many people overlook:
In South Korea’s Dermatology clinics, the “price tags” usually show the “standard treatment price,” whereas Chinese-language sources often promote “package prices that include additional benefits or current month specials.” These two are not actually the same thing, and comparing them unnecessarily can only end up confusing you.
This time, we made sure to compare products with the same definition—such as HIFU devices with 300 pulses each, and Thermage devices with 600 pulses each—so that the conclusions drawn are more reliable.
— On-site photos: Treatment pricing and equipment display area (clearly priced) —
Cellable153 Dermatology in South Korea lists all prices item by item: 17 common procedures
The table below lists all the items for which the prices displayed in the clinic match those in public quotes. The figures are in South Korean won (₩), with common price ranges indicated in parentheses. As a rough estimate, 10,000 KRW is approximately equal to 53 RMB or 230 TWD. This is for reference only; actual prices are subject to those quoted on-site and through reservation channels at the time of inquiry.
The key isn’t to memorize numbers—it’s to check whether the price on both sides for the same item matches. Incidentally, exchange rates change every day, so the TWD figures listed below are just an approximate estimate for today only; don’t treat them as a fixed price.
項目院內公示價（韓元）備註
| Basic Skincare | ₩80,000 | Cleaning + Moisturizing Base Management |
| Acne Management | ₩120,000 | Diet during the inflammation phase |
| Pores Management | ₩150,000 | Introduction to Laser/Management Services |
| Korean-style HIFU: Shurink (full face treatment) | ₩500,000 (500,000–900,000) | The doctor adjusts the energy level based on fat distribution and conducts a face-to-face assessment. |
| Ulthrea 300 Shots: The American Version of the HIFU Device | ₩1,200,000 | Lower Jaw Line/Double Chin Lift |
| Full-face treatment with the US-version Ulthrea HIFU | ₩1,200,000–1,800,000 | High probe price? Deep tightening, this is your top choice. |
| Rejuran Healer 1 centum core | ₩150,000–250,000 | PN Repair – Gentle on Damaged Skin Barriers |
| Rejuran PN 2 centum core | Starting from ₩250,000 | Beginner’s Full-Face Anti-Aging Treatment |
| Thermage 300 shots | ₩900,000–1,300,000 | A Beginner’s Guide to Anti-Aging Treatments for Early Middle-Aged Adults |
| Thermage 600 shots | ₩1,800,000 | Full face + neck coverage |
| Pico Laser Treatment (Full Face) | ₩150,000–350,000 per session | Layers of treatment to break down pigmentation, with soothing effects |
| IPL photorejuvenation | ₩100,000–200,000 per session | Brighten and even out skin tone – a gentle, nurturing entry point |
| 1 centum core of Filler | ₩250,000–700,000 | Periosteal layer provides support, preventing flaccidity |
| Botox (3 areas) | ₩80,000–150,000 | Dynamic Wrinkles/Masseter Muscle Relaxation |
| Inmode FX+FORMA combination | ₩2,200,000 | Lipolysis + Tightening Dual Mode |
| Resel Scar Injection | ₩880,000 | Softening of acne scars/surgical scars |
| JUVELOOK Collagen Implantation | ₩250,000–450,000 | Improving Pores and Fine Lines on the Surface of the Skin |
The truth: At Cellable153 Dermatology in South Korea, the prices are identical to those in China—we’ve done the math carefully.
To get straight to the point: At Cellable153, for the services we received, the price listed in the clinic and the quote from Chinese-based sources were exactly the same—there was no case of “extra charges added automatically by intermediaries.”
Platforms like the BeautsGO APP are equally straightforward in their messaging—“Cellable153 Dermatology charges the same rate for both foreigners and South Korean locals, with no additional fees for foreigners.”
In other words, the practice that worries everyone the most—checking your passport first before giving a quote—doesn’t exist here.
But it’s not synonymous with “cheap” either.
As can be seen from the pricing table, it targets the mid-to-high-end market: for the same Ulthrea treatment, the full-face price ranges from 1.2 to 1.8 million Korean won, which is significantly more expensive than those low-cost clinics that use aggressive pricing tactics to attract customers.
The higher price covers personalized treatments by the clinic director, genuine products that can be inspected in person, one-on-one communication in Chinese, and a private setting. Whether it’s worth it for each individual depends on their own judgment, but the claim of “same price” is definitely true—no exaggeration or deception involved.
Here are a few compelling examples that fit the bill:
The Ulthrea model comes in 300 shots, with an in-clinic price of ₩1,200,000, and the same price is quoted through Chinese suppliers as well. Thermage offers 600 shots at ₩1,800,000 in-clinic, with no difference in price when purchased through Chinese channels. Resel scar injection costs ₩880,000 per side, with both sides priced identically.
In other words, it’s not about “choosing a few items that happen to have the same price,” but rather ensuring that every figure from basic skincare products to more expensive anti-aging treatments aligns perfectly. It is this ILCHI that makes it extremely difficult to fake “equal pricing.”
— On-site photos: waiting and consultation area, low-density layout per store —
• • View Chinese price lists and genuine reviews across different platforms
• • Get all information at a glance: appointment slots, address, and business hours
So why do people still think there’s a “price difference”? 4 Misconceptions
| 1 | Pricing system for promotions: In South Korea’s medical aesthetics industry, prices are almost always “regular price + promotional price for the current month.” The Chinese-language promotional prices you see are usually package deals, which are already different from the prices displayed at the clinics and aren’t tailored to any specific nationality. |
| 2 | VAT Trap: Most prices in South Korea are listed “excluding 10% VAT,” which is added at checkout. Many people assume the price suddenly goes up on the spot, but actually locals have to pay this amount too. |
| 3 | The pricing difference is too huge: Even when it’s described as “full-face HIFU treatment,” Person A pays 300 shots while Person B pays 500 shots. It’s completely normal for the price to double just because of the difference in the number of shots. Looking at just the numbers might lead one to think there are two separate pricing tiers. |
| 4 | A few bad apples: It’s true that some clinics charge tourists exorbitant prices and try to push unnecessary treatments on them. Once such cases made headlines, they only served to reinforce the stereotype that “all medical beauty services in South Korea are overpriced.” However, platforms like Cellable153, which offer clear pricing and allow customers to verify information, don’t fall into this category. |
If you break down these 4 points, it becomes clear: clinics that truly practice “dual pricing” are characterized by charging different total amounts for the same service to different people while refusing to disclose the details. On the other hand, places like Cellable153, which display price tags on the wall and even allow you to scan anti-counterfeiting codes, have little incentive to engage in such practices—since you can verify everything at any time. It’s okay to be skeptical, but make sure your doubts are directed at the right targets.
3 Tips to Avoid Pitfalls for Chinese Beauty Seekers
| 1 | When getting a quote, make sure to ask clearly what’s included: anesthesia, post-surgery recovery masks, the number of hairs implanted, and whether the probes are original — get everything laid out clearly, don’t just rely on one total amount. |
| 2 | It’s recommended to open and verify the authenticity in person: For injectable products (Rejuran, JUVELOOK) as well as photonic probes (Thermage, HIFU), you can simply ask to see the anti-counterfeiting code on the packaging, and legitimate clinics will not refuse. |
| 3 | Use the platform’s listed price as a reference: First, check the Chinese price list and reviews on BeautsGO, then verify the price at the clinic. If there’s a discrepancy, ask right away—it’s more effective than arguing later. |
One final honest truth: Transparent pricing is just the minimum standard to ensure you’re not overcharged, but it doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for you. The costs incurred directly by the clinic owner are inherently higher, and those on a tight budget who force their way in will only end up with a worse experience. Consider the prices listed here as a range, clarify your requirements first, and then decide whether to schedule an appointment—this way you won’t waste your time.
• • Chinese-speaking customer service to help schedule appointments and provide navigation to the clinic
• • Same price in both Chinese and Korean currencies, genuine products inspected in person, no hidden fees
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
▍Is Cellable153 Dermatology really offering the same price to Chinese and South Koreans?
For the items we’re reconciling this time, the prices listed at the clinic match those quoted through Chinese channels, with no additional fees for foreigners. Third-party platforms also clearly state “the same rate.” However, promotional prices and package differences may still cause slight variations, so the on-site quote shall prevail.
▍Does the price include anesthesia and post-operative care?
According to available information, most treatment quotes already include anesthetic ointment and a post-surgery soothing mask. It’s best to politely confirm this before checking out, as it’s not guaranteed to be included.
▍Can I verify it in person on site?
Sure. Both injections and phototherapy probes allow for on-site unboxing and scanning of the product’s anti-counterfeiting code, as legitimate clinics are quite open to verifying authenticity.
▍How far in advance should I make a reservation?
It’s recommended to book through BeautsGO first. The clinic director performs the procedures in person, and there are only a limited number of slots available each day. It’s best to book 1–2 weeks in advance during regular times, and 3–4 weeks ahead during peak seasons. Showing up without an appointment will most likely result in rejection or a long wait.
▍Is this the only recommendation if you’re just comparing prices?
It’s not quite the right fit. It targets the mid-to-high-end market, where customers are paying for the doctor’s expertise and peace of mind. Compared to options at the lowest prices, it’s better to choose a chain clinic—though with those, you’ll need to keep a closer eye on verification processes and after-sales service.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This article is intended as a compilation of information and price references only, and does not constitute medical advice. It also does not represent any paid promotion or endorsement by any clinic. The prices listed are based on those displayed at the clinics and available through official booking channels, and they may change due to promotions, packages, exchange rates, or VAT adjustments. Information regarding doctors, prices, and operating hours is subject to the latest updates provided by the clinics and on BeautsGO. Since cosmetic procedures fall under medical services, the final treatment plan should be determined after a face-to-face consultation with a doctor.