Gangnam · LASIK

LASIK in Gangnam, Seoul: Top Clinics & Patient Guide

Gangnam is Seoul's main hub for laser eye surgery. Its high-volume refractive clinics offer LASIK, LASEK/PRK, SMILE and EVO ICL with English-speaking coordinators, in-depth screening and fast scheduling, so many international patients can be screened and treated within the same trip.
Reviewed October 2026 · Seoul LASIK Clinic Directory
LASIK in Gangnam, Seoul: Top Clinics & Patient Guide

Why choose Gangnam for LASIK?

Gangnam has the highest concentration of refractive-surgery centers in Seoul. Clinics here combine up-to-date excimer and femtosecond lasers with detailed screening (corneal topography, wavefront analysis and dry-eye testing) and coordinators who work with foreign patients every day. Pricing is usually quoted as a package that includes tests, surgery and follow-ups.

Who is a good candidate?

  • Stable prescription for at least 1–2 years
  • Healthy corneas with adequate thickness and no active keratoconus
  • Realistic expectations about glare and halos during early recovery
  • Able to stop soft contact lenses for 1–2 weeks before measurements

Procedure options at a glance

Procedure How it works Best for
LASIK Corneal flap + excimer reshaping Fast visual recovery
LASEK/ PRK Surface treatment, no flap Thinner corneas, contact sports
SMILE Small keyhole incision, flapless Dry-eye concerns, active lifestyles
EVO ICL Implantable lens, no tissue removed High myopia, thin corneas

How to choose a Gangnam LASIK clinic

  1. Diagnostic depth – corneal tomography, epithelial mapping and tear-film tests.
  2. Device transparency – named laser platforms and when they were last updated.
  3. Surgeon experience – case volume, subspecialty training and complication protocols.
  4. English support – translated consultation, consent forms and aftercare instructions.
  5. Follow-up plan – at least 2–3 checks in the first month and a plan for after you fly home.
  6. Safety culture – willingness to say “not a candidate” and offer SMILE, PRK or ICL instead.

Featured clinics in and around Gangnam

Gangnam-daero is the Gangnam–Seocho boundary, so several clinics marketed as "Gangnam" have Seocho-gu addresses.

B&VIIT Eye Center

GT Tower, 411 Seocho-daero, at Gangnam Station Exit 9 (Seocho-gu side). Lists LASIK, LASEK, SMILE, SMILE Pro, phakic lenses and refractive cataract surgery, with English and Chinese coordinators.

GS Eye Clinic

390 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, a minute from Gangnam Station Exit 1. A separate clinic from B&VIIT; it lists SMILE Pro, SMILE, SILK, LASEK and lens implants on ZEISS VisuMax 500 and 800 lasers, with English support.

Apgujeong Eye Clinic

Just across the Gangnam–Seocho line by Sinsa Station: its official address is 597 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu. Lists LASIK/LASEK, SMILE Pro on the ZEISS VisuMax 800, EVO+ ICL and other phakic lenses. Convenient if you are staying in Sinsa or Apgujeong.

Gangnam Smile Eye Clinic

405 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, at Gangnam Station Exit 10. Lists all-laser LASEK, keyhole lenticule surgery on the SCHWIND ATOS, ICL and cataract surgery, with English-speaking staff.

Listing is not an endorsement. Ask each clinic which laser platforms they use, how they pre-treat dry eye, and what their enhancement policy is.

Visit timeline

  1. Online inquiry – share your prescription history and travel dates.
  2. Contact-lens break – stop soft lenses 7–14 days before screening (longer for RGP).
  3. Screening day – dilated exam, corneal maps, tear tests and surgeon consult.
  4. Surgery – often the same or next day if you qualify.
  5. Aftercare – drops, day-1 check, then ~1-week and ~1-month follow-ups.
  6. Flying home – plan at least a few days in Seoul post-op and arrange care at home.

Recovery and aftercare

  • First 24–48 hours: light sensitivity and mild dryness; do not rub your eyes.
  • Weeks 1–2: lubricate often, avoid pools and saunas, wear sunglasses outdoors.
  • Sport and makeup: non-contact exercise after a few days; eye makeup after ~1–2 weeks if your surgeon agrees.
  • Screens: follow the 20-20-20 rule and humidify your room.

Key facts

  • Procedures: LASIK, LASEK/PRK, SMILE, EVO ICL
  • Typical stay after surgery: 3–7 days in Seoul
  • Soft-lens break before screening: 7–14 days
  • Follow-ups: day 1, ~1 week, ~1 month
  • Price guide: LASIK cost in Korea

Independent directory. Prices are typical ranges reported by Seoul clinics and change often. Always confirm a written quote and get a full eye exam before booking. This page is general information, not medical advice.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Can I get LASIK in Gangnam if my corneas are thin?

Possibly not LASIK, but you may qualify for PRK/LASEK, SMILE or ICL. A good clinic will tell you which is safest after screening.

Can I have surgery on the same day as my exam?

Often yes. Many Gangnam clinics operate the same or next day if your measurements are stable and you meet all criteria.

Is an enhancement included in the price?

Policies vary. Ask about the enhancement window, eligibility criteria and any fees before you book.

What if I have dry eyes?

Many centers pre-treat dryness first to improve comfort and measurement accuracy. Ask for the plan in writing.

How long should I stay in Seoul after LASIK?

Most international patients stay 3–7 days so they can attend the early follow-ups before flying.

Planning vision correction in Seoul?

Compare clinics by district, check 2026 price ranges, and read our step-by-step planning guide for international patients.