Introduction to the Seoul Medical Tourism Policy Debate
Participants included:
- Kim Jin-guk, President of the Korea Medical Tourism Association
- Dr. Soonwoo Choi, CEO of View Plastic Surgery
- Lee Soo-taek, Director of Tourism Industry at the Seoul Tourism Organization
- Kim Young-jin, Catholic University Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital
- Kang Kyung-a, Executive Director of JNDMC Korea
- Lee Jae-hwa, Seoul Metropolitan Government Tourism Industry Division
“Illegal Broker Hospitals Are the Core Reason Behind Declining Trust”
During the debate, CEO Soonwoo Choi of View Plastic Surgery highlighted the persistent problem of illegal “broker-run hospitals” operating without proper medical leadership—a long-standing issue damaging Korea’s international credibility.
The ongoing Seoul Medical Tourism debate has brought renewed attention to the systemic risks posed by illegal broker hospitals in Korea. These intermediaries often operate outside regulatory oversight, prioritizing short-term profit over patient safety, transparency, and long-term medical outcomes. As a result, overseas patients may face misleading information, inconsistent pricing, and limited post-procedure accountability.
Industry experts argue that without stricter enforcement and clearer institutional guidelines, such practices will continue to undermine Korea’s credibility as a global medical tourism destination. Addressing illegal brokerage is therefore not only a legal matter, but a strategic necessity to protect Seoul’s medical brand and ensure ethical, patient-centered care.
He stated, “Even though Seoul offers world-class medical expertise and top-tier tourism infrastructure, the illegal operations of broker-run hospitals remain the biggest cause of declining trust among foreign patients.”
Dr. Choi emphasized the urgent need for fundamental legal reforms and strict enforcement to eliminate unlicensed operators that mislead foreign patients. He further added, “To ensure sustainable growth in medical tourism, Korea must secure transparency in patient acquisition, promote only fully licensed medical institutions, and strengthen oversight by both government and local authorities.”
The ongoing Seoul Medical Tourism debate has brought renewed attention to the systemic risks posed by illegal broker hospitals in Korea. These intermediaries often operate outside regulatory oversight, prioritizing short-term profit over patient safety, transparency, and long-term medical outcomes. As a result, overseas patients may face misleading information, inconsistent pricing, and limited post-procedure accountability.
Industry experts argue that without stricter enforcement and clearer institutional guidelines, such practices will continue to undermine Korea’s credibility as a global medical tourism destination. Addressing illegal brokerage is therefore not only a legal matter, but a strategic necessity to protect Seoul’s medical brand and ensure ethical, patient-centered care.
“Seoul Has the Potential to Become a Global Leader in Medical Tourism”
Kim Hye-young, Chair of the Special Committee, noted that Seoul receives nearly 80% of all foreign patients visiting Korea—a clear indication of its global influence. She stated that institutional support and legal improvements are urgently needed to help Seoul become a fully recognized medical tourism powerhouse.
CEO Soon Woo Choi Serves as an Executive Committee Member of the Seoul Tourism Organization
Dr. Choi also serves as a member of the Seoul Tourism Organization’s Executive Committee, a role that is highly selective and influential. The committee is responsible for shaping strategies that strengthen Seoul’s reputation as a global hub for medical tourism and ensuring patient safety, transparency, and industry growth.
Being appointed to this committee itself demonstrates significant trust, expertise, and leadership within the medical tourism sector. Dr. Choi’s continued participation highlights View Plastic Surgery’s commitment to ethical practices and international patient safety.
During the Seoul medical tourism policy debate, CEO Soon Woo Choi emphasized that sustainable growth requires cooperation between medical institutions, government bodies, and global stakeholders. He stressed that policy reform must focus on transparency, standardized evaluation systems, and the elimination of unregulated intermediaries.
By positioning Seoul as a city that prioritizes ethical medical practices and patient safety, industry leaders believe Korea can strengthen its competitive edge in the global healthcare market. Such reforms are seen as essential steps toward restoring international trust and securing long-term leadership in medical tourism.
