Cataract Surgery Cost in Korea: 2026 Prices by Lens Type
How much does cataract surgery cost in Korea?
Cataract surgery in Korea costs about ₩1.5 million to ₩7.5 million. The price depends on the lens (IOL) and the surgical technique. Korean prices are often 30–50% lower than in Western countries. In the US, surgery with premium lenses can cost well over $6,000 per eye without insurance.
| Option | Price (KRW) | Approx. price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard surgery, monofocal IOL | ₩1,500,000–₩3,000,000 | $1,100–$2,300 |
| Premium surgery, multifocal or toric IOL | ₩3,500,000–₩6,500,000 | $2,700–$4,900 |
| Laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) | ₩5,000,000–₩7,500,000 | $3,800–$5,650 |
| US, premium lenses, no insurance | — | Well over $6,000 per eye |
USD figures are approximate and depend on the exchange rate. Learn about the laser option in laser-assisted cataract surgery in Korea.
What's included in the cataract surgery price
- Initial consultation and diagnostic exams
- Lens selection and measurement
- Surgeon's fees and operating room charges
- The intraocular lens (standard or premium)
- Post-operative medication, such as eye drops
- Follow-up visits (often 1–3 included)
Some premium clinics add English-language support, online pre-visit consultations, airport pickup or hotel partnerships.
What changes the price
| Factor | Lower cost | Higher cost |
|---|---|---|
| Type of IOL | Monofocal lens | Multifocal or toric lens for presbyopia or astigmatism |
| Surgical technique | Conventional phacoemulsification | Femtosecond laser-assisted surgery |
| Clinic location | Smaller clinics | Gangnam clinics or major Seoul medical centers |
| Other eye conditions | No other conditions | Astigmatism, dry eye or glaucoma add complexity |
Is cataract surgery in Korea safe?
Yes. Korea has strict medical safety standards and advanced eye care. Most clinics use femtosecond lasers, intraoperative imaging and premium lens options. Many surgeons are highly experienced and trained abroad. Foreigner-friendly clinics offer full English support, clear explanations and attentive follow-up. See English-speaking vision clinics in Korea.
Do I need a Korean ID?
No. Most foreign patients can have cataract surgery with just a passport. International clinics are used to visa-free and short-stay health tourism visits.
How long to stay in Korea
- Day 1: Pre-surgery consultation and exams
- Day 2 or 3: Surgery, usually one eye at a time
- Day 4 or 5: Post-op check and travel clearance
Some patients stay longer to treat both eyes in one visit or to sightsee. For younger patients with high myopia, compare ICL cost in Korea, or see LASIK cost in Korea for laser vision correction.
Price at a glance
- Monofocal IOL: ₩1.5M–₩3M (about $1,100–$2,300 USD)
- Multifocal or toric IOL: ₩3.5M–₩6.5M (about $2,700–$4,900 USD)
- Laser-assisted (FLACS): ₩5M–₩7.5M (about $3,800–$5,650 USD)
- Stay in Korea: 3–5 days
- ID needed: Passport only; no Korean ID required
- Procedure details: Cataract surgery in Korea guide
Related guides
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
How much is cataract surgery in Korea for foreigners?
Standard surgery with a monofocal lens costs about ₩1.5M–₩3M ($1,100–$2,300). Premium multifocal or toric lenses cost ₩3.5M–₩6.5M, and laser-assisted FLACS ₩5M–₩7.5M.
How much does laser-assisted cataract surgery cost in Korea?
FLACS costs about ₩5 million to ₩7.5 million, roughly $3,800–$5,650 USD. Read about it in laser-assisted cataract surgery in Korea.
Why do premium lenses cost more?
Multifocal and toric IOLs also correct presbyopia or astigmatism, so they cost more than standard monofocal lenses.
Do I need a Korean ID for cataract surgery?
No. Most foreign patients need only a passport, and international clinics are set up for short-stay visits.
How many days should I stay in Korea for cataract surgery?
Three to five days is usually enough for exams, surgery and a post-op check. Stay longer if you want both eyes done in one trip. See the cataract surgery guide.
Planning vision correction in Seoul?
Compare clinics by district, check 2026 price ranges, and read our step-by-step planning guide for international patients.