South Korea has earned global recognition for its advanced healthcare system, world-class hospitals, and highly skilled medical professionals across a wide range of specialties. From life-saving trauma care and cancer treatment to aesthetic medicine and minimally invasive surgery, Korean doctors continue to set international standards in innovation, expertise, and patient outcomes.
This article presents a carefully curated list of 20 outstanding doctors in South Korea, highlighting medical leaders who have made significant contributions to their respective fields through clinical excellence, research, education, and patient-centered care.
1. Captain Kim Hae-Ryong — Military Officer & Medical Doctor (Internal Medicine / Surgery)
Captain Kim Hae-Ryong is a distinguished South Korean military officer and medical doctor, widely respected for his exceptional service in both medicine and the armed forces. Born on December 7, 1991, and raised in Jeju, Captain Kim demonstrated leadership and discipline early in life, qualities that would later define his professional career.
He entered the military academy in 2010 and was commissioned in 2011 at just 19 years old as a masks-man in the infantry division. Driven by a passion for medicine, he enrolled at Seoul National University College of Medicine in 2012, where he trained rigorously and graduated in 2018 as a General Practitioner and General Surgeon.
Captain Kim’s excellence in internal medicine earned him a prestigious award for Best Internal Medicine Doctor in the Military, a rare honor that reflects his clinical skill, dedication, and impact on military healthcare. His medical expertise, combined with his frontline military experience, has made him one of the most respected doctors in Seoul, particularly within military and institutional medical settings.
Promoted to the rank of Captain in 2021 for his heroism and bravery in service to his country, he became the first medical doctor in his division, setting a historic milestone. Known for his strong leadership, professionalism, and kindness toward patients and colleagues alike, Captain Kim Hae-Ryong represents the highest standards of Korean medicine and military service.
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2. Dr. Lee Guk-Jong — Trauma Surgery
Dr. Lee Guk-Jong is South Korea’s most renowned trauma surgeon, widely regarded as a national medical hero for saving lives in high-profile cases, including a Somali pirate captain in 2011 and a North Korean defector soldier in 2017. As a leading trauma specialist at Ajou University Hospital, he played a pivotal role in establishing Korea’s Regional Trauma Center system and introduced life-saving innovations such as doctor-staffed medical helicopters.
Known as the “People’s Doctor,” Dr. Lee has been a vocal advocate for improving emergency and trauma care nationwide. His efforts led to reforms in emergency medical funding, commonly referred to as the “Lee Guk-Jong Law,” strengthening support for trauma centers across the country. In recognition of his service, he was appointed Honorary Naval Captain and later became Director of the Armed Forces Hospital, solidifying his legacy as one of Korea’s most influential physicians.
3. Dr. Park Young Kyu – Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Park Young Kyu is a respected plastic surgeon. He specializes in tummy tucks, rhinoplasty, otoplasty, facelifts, liposuction, and blepharoplasty. He graduated summa cum laude from SoonChunHyang University. Dr. Park is also an adjunct professor at the university hospital.
He received the Top Medical Resident award from the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. Dr. Park is a member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He serves on several research and steering committees, showing his leadership in the field.
4. Dr. Byung-hee Lee
Regular member of the Korean Society of Radiology
Founding member of the Korean Society of Interventional Neurology
Founding member of the Korean Stroke Society
Regular member of the American Stroke Association
Regular member of the World Stroke Society
Regular member of the World Society of Cerebrovascular Surgery
Regular member of the European Society of Cerebrovascular Surgery
Regular member of the Intervention Society
24 pieces of overseas and domestic thesis presentation (SCI)
50 times of overseas and domestic conference lectures
5. Doctor Lee Jeong Min – Plastic Surgeon
Doctor Lee Jeong Min is an 17 years experienced plastic surgeon. A permanent member of Korean Society Of Plastic And Reconstructive Surgery. A permanent member of Korean Society Of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Currently Dr.Lee is an acting professor at Gachon University. Apart from plastic surgery studies, he did great research related to carcinoma pigmentation (port-wine stain), cyst, foreign body granuloma after use of dermal fillers and others. All these research made a great contribute to his work and carrier. His researches were publised not only locally, but aslo abroad and were presented at Korean plastic surgery symposium.
6. Dr. Hong Young Ho
Dr. Hong Young Ho is an experienced aesthetic physician at G Clinic. He specializes in body contouring and non-invasive slimming treatments. He has strong skills in liposuction, fat reduction, and other aesthetic procedures. Dr. Hong focuses on patient safety and achieving natural results. He earned his M.D. from Kyung Hee University College of Medicine and completed advanced training at Kyung Hee University Medical Center.
He is a full member of the Korean Society of Obesity Treatment, the Korean Society of Obesity and Aesthetic Medicine, and the Korean Society for Laser Medicine. Dr. Hong is also a member of the Union Internationale de Médecine Esthétique (UIME), the Korean Academy of Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Medicine, the Korean Society for Stem Cell and Tissue Regeneration, and the Korean Society for Skin Barrier Research.
7. Dr. Yeom Jihye – dermatology
Dr. Yeom Jihye is a physician who specializes in dermatology, laser and aesthetic procedures, and obesity medicine. She is a full member of the Korean Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Medicine. She is a full member of the Korean Society for Obesity and Aesthetic Medicine. She is a lifetime member of the Korean Society for Laser Dermatology and Hair Restoration. She is a full member of the Korean Society of Aesthetic Surgery. She is a full member of the Korean Society of Dermatology, Obesity, and Plastic Surgery. She is also a member of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
She completed the UCLA Clinical Observership Program. She also took part in the BHCHP Volunteer Workshop. She previously served as director at Cellin Clinic Hongdae, Shine Beam, U&I, and Bliv.
8. Dr. Yeoun E Park – Obstetrics And Gynecology Specialist
Dr. Yeoun E. Park is a distinguished obstetrics and gynecology specialist and the Chief Medical Officer of Seoul Miz Hospital, as well as Chief Director of Gangdong Miz Hospital. A graduate of Chungnam National University College of Medicine, she is widely respected for her leadership in women’s healthcare and her expertise in both clinical practice and hospital administration.
Dr. Park specializes in high-risk pregnancy management, laparoscopic gynecologic surgery for conditions such as uterine fibroids and ovarian tumors, endometriosis, menopause care, and comprehensive gynecological cancer screening. She also leads specialized services including incontinence treatment, women’s cosmetic gynecology, and international patient care. In addition to her clinical work, she serves as an adjunct professor at multiple medical institutions, including Hallym University, Korea University, Konkuk University, and Gangdong Kyunghee University College of Medicine, and is an active member of Korea’s leading obstetrics and maternal-fetal medicine societies.
9. Dr. Joo-young Park, MD
Dr. Joo-Young Park, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and anti-aging specialist, serving as Chief Medical Director and CEO of BIOFACE Clinic in South Korea. With over a decade of clinical and research leadership, he is widely recognized for advancing evidence-based aesthetic dermatology that prioritizes patient safety, natural results, and long-term skin health.
Trained at Seoul National University Hospital, Dr. Park specializes in advanced laser therapies, injectable aesthetics, thread-lift techniques, and regenerative anti-aging treatments. Beyond clinical practice, he is a leading educator and consultant, having trained more than 300 physicians nationwide in safe filler and HIFU lifting techniques. He also advises major pharmaceutical, medical device, and biotech companies on clinical trials, protocol development, and next-generation aesthetic technologies.
Dr. Park is an invited speaker at international medical conferences, a published researcher in peer-reviewed journals, and a recipient of the Korean Society of Aesthetic Medicine’s Excellence in Education Award. His work reflects a commitment to integrating science, technology, and education to elevate aesthetic medicine standards across Korea and beyond.
10. Dr. Kim Sung Sik – Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Yoon Eul-sik is an experienced Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with 35+ years of experience and membership in several prestigious societies, including The Korean Medical Association, Korean Society of Association of Microsurgery, and American Society of Plastic Surgery. He specialises in Plastic Surgery, Cosmetic Surgery, Aesthetic Surgery, Laser Hair Removal, Laser Facial Rejuvenation, Fraxel Lasers, Cosmetic Breast Surgery, and Liposuction.
11. Dr. Dae-won Kang
Dr. Daewon Kang is a respected physician and aesthetic medicine specialist, currently serving as the Main Doctor and Medical Director of Bbae Clinic in South Korea. Known for his patient-centered philosophy, Dr. Kang emphasizes honest communication and trust as the foundation for safe procedures and satisfying outcomes.
A graduate of Inje University College of Medicine, Dr. Kang completed his internship and residency at Baik Hospital and is a board-certified Family Medicine specialist. His clinical background combines medical precision with aesthetic expertise, allowing him to deliver balanced, natural-looking cosmetic results.
Before leading Bbae Clinic, Dr. Kang held senior roles at several prominent medical institutions, including Dreamline Clinic, Ppeunnaggebbae Clinic, and the Armed Forces Capital Hospital, where he served as both Head of Family Medicine and Head of the Health Promotion Center. His experience in military and civilian healthcare has shaped a disciplined, safety-first approach to aesthetic treatment.
Dr. Kang remains actively engaged in professional development as a member of multiple national medical societies focused on cosmetic surgery, laser medicine, and obesity treatment, reflecting his commitment to modern, evidence-based aesthetic care.
12. Dr. Min-Hee Ryu, MD – board-certified plastic surgeon
Dr. Min-Hee Ryu, MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon and internationally recognized authority in deep plane facelift surgery, widely regarded as one of Korea’s leading educators in advanced facial rejuvenation techniques. He is the Founder and Director of RNWOOD Plastic Surgery in Seoul, where he combines anatomical precision with refined aesthetic outcomes.
Dr. Ryu has played a pivotal role in shaping modern facelift education worldwide. Since 2016, he has served as Faculty at the Mendelson Advanced Facial Anatomy Course (MAFAC)—one of the most prestigious facial anatomy programs globally—and has been an Editorial Board Member of the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal (SCI) since 2019. He also serves on the Educational Council of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), contributing to global surgical standards and academic advancement.
With a career dedicated to facial anatomy and rejuvenation, Dr. Ryu has lectured and performed live surgeries in over 15 countries, including the United States, Germany, Brazil, Japan, China, and across Southeast Asia. He has authored numerous scientific papers and educational texts, with particular emphasis on refining and teaching the deep plane facelift, a technique known for natural results, faster recovery, and long-lasting facial harmony.
Dr. Ryu’s approach to the deep plane facelift is defined by meticulous technique and patient-centered design, prioritizing natural facial expression, minimal scarring, reduced discomfort, and elegant contouring. His work reflects a deep understanding of both Asian and Western facial anatomy, allowing him to tailor results that respect individuality and ethnicity while achieving refined rejuvenation.
As an active member of major international plastic surgery societies—including KSPRS, ASPS, ASAPS, and ISAPS—Dr. Ryu continues to influence the future of aesthetic surgery through education, innovation, and clinical excellence.
13. Dr. Kim Tae Joong
Dr. Kim Tae Joong, MD is one of South Korea’s most respected gynecology and obstetrics specialists, widely recognized for his expertise in gynecologic oncology and advanced minimally invasive surgery. With more than 14 years of clinical experience, he is particularly known for treating ovarian cancer, gynecologic malignancies, and complex gynecologic tumors using cutting-edge surgical techniques.
Dr. Kim currently serves at Samsung Medical Center, one of Korea’s leading tertiary hospitals, where he plays a key role in both patient care and surgical innovation. He earned his medical degree from Seoul National University, one of the country’s most prestigious medical institutions, laying a strong academic foundation for his clinical and research career.
Following his training, Dr. Kim began his professional journey at Samsung Medical Center, completing his internship and later returning as a senior consultant after military service. He has remained at the institution since, contributing to its reputation for excellence in women’s healthcare and oncology.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Kim is a highly accomplished researcher. He has co-authored more than 180 review articles and 90+ scientific papers, with his research cited over 2,000 times, reflecting his significant impact on gynecologic oncology and surgical advancement.
Dr. Kim is also recognized as a pioneer of robotic and laparoscopic gynecologic surgery in Korea, becoming one of the first surgeons in the country to perform Da Vinci robotic surgery in his specialty. His work continues to shape modern gynecologic cancer treatment through precision surgery, research leadership, and commitment to improved patient outcomes.
14. Dr. Kang Dongho
Dr. Kang Dongho, PhD is a highly experienced dentist with over 22 years of clinical practice, currently serving patients at Yonsei Uline Dental Clinic in South Korea. He is widely respected for his expertise in advanced prosthodontics and aesthetic dentistry, offering comprehensive solutions that combine function, precision, and natural aesthetics.
Dr. Kang specializes in Invisalign and orthodontic treatments, porcelain veneers, dental implants, root canal therapy, smile design, and zirconia crowns. He earned his PhD in Dental Prosthetics from Yonsei University College of Dentistry and completed advanced clinical training at Yonsei University Gangnam Severance Dental Hospital.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Kang has held leadership and academic roles, including Head of Prosthodontics at Yongin Severance Dental Hospital and Professor at Yonsei University College of Dentistry. He is also an active member of major professional dental organizations and serves as Director of the Yonsei Gangnam Severance Implant Research Association, reflecting his ongoing contribution to dental education and innovation.
15. Dr. Kim Sehyuk – Neurosurgeon
Dr. Kim Sehyuk, MD, PhD is a highly respected neurosurgeon and brain tumor specialist in South Korea, known for his expertise in treating complex intracranial tumors. His clinical focus includes meningioma, schwannoma, glioblastoma, and pituitary tumors, with a strong emphasis on precision-based and minimally invasive treatment approaches.
Dr. Kim earned his MD from Yonsei University College of Medicine, followed by a Master’s and PhD from Ajou University School of Medicine. He further expanded his expertise internationally as a Visiting Scholar at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation’s Brain Tumor Institute in the United States.
Since 2013, Dr. Kim has served as a Professor of Neurosurgery at Ajou University School of Medicine and previously held the role of Chairman of the Department of Neurosurgery from 2011 to 2019. He is also the Director of the Gamma Knife Center, Brain Tumor Center, and Cancer Center at Ajou University Hospital, where he continues to lead advanced neurosurgical and radiosurgical care.
16. Dr. Hong Ki Pyo – Thoracic Surgery Specialist
Dr. Hong Ki-Pyo, MD, PhD is a distinguished cardiovascular and thoracic surgery specialist practicing in South Korea, widely recognized for his expertise in lung cancer and complex thoracic diseases. He currently serves as a specialist at National Health Insurance Ilsan Hospital (NHIC Hospital) and as a Clinical Professor in the Department of Thoracic Surgery at Yonsei University College of Medicine.
Dr. Hong earned his medical degree, master’s, and doctorate from Yonsei Medical University, one of Korea’s most prestigious medical institutions. He completed his thoracic surgery residency at Sinchon Severance Hospital and further advanced his subspecialty training in thoracic oncology at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), gaining valuable international experience in advanced lung cancer care.
His clinical expertise spans lung cancer, benign lung tumors, emphysema, pleural and mediastinal tumors, pneumothorax, and chest trauma, with a strong focus on evidence-based surgical techniques and patient safety. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Hong has served as a research instructor at Yonsei University College of Medicine, contributing to academic advancement in thoracic surgery.
Dr. Hong is actively involved in national healthcare policy and medical oversight, holding memberships in the Korean Surgical Society, Korean Hernia Society, and multiple government advisory committees, including the Medical Device Committee of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. His combined roles in surgery, education, and policy reflect his broad impact on Korea’s thoracic surgical standards.
17. Dr. Kim Hoon Yub – Experienced Thyroid Cancer Specialist
Dr. Kim Hoon Yub, MD is a highly respected thyroid cancer and endocrine surgery specialist in South Korea, recognized for his advanced expertise in robotic thyroid surgery and the treatment of parathyroid and adrenal tumors. He is widely regarded as one of Korea’s leading surgeons in minimally invasive endocrine procedures.
Dr. Kim completed his medical education at Seoul National University College of Medicine, graduating in 2005. He began his surgical training and early clinical career at Seoul National University Hospital, where he worked in both the training unit and the Department of Surgery before advancing into academic and teaching roles.
His career includes key leadership and professorial appointments at major institutions, including the Breast and Endocrinology Center at Korea University Anam Hospital, where he served as both professor and director. Dr. Kim also gained international recognition through his work with the Head and Neck Surgery Unit at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, further strengthening his global surgical perspective.
Dr. Kim is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the Korean Society of Thyroid Endocrine and Endoscopic Laparoscopic Surgery, the Korean Surgical Society, and several national societies focused on oncology, robotic surgery, and head and neck surgery. He has authored multiple scientific publications on thyroid cancer and parathyroid disease, contributing to the advancement of endocrine surgical care in Korea.
18. Dr. Choi – Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Choi Jae Ik, MD is a highly regarded plastic and aesthetic surgeon in South Korea, currently practicing at AB Plastic Surgery Hospital, one of the country’s leading centers for advanced cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. He is known for delivering refined, natural-looking results through meticulous surgical technique and individualized treatment planning.
Prior to his current role, Dr. Choi served as a physician at BK Plastic Surgery Clinic, where he gained extensive experience in facial and body aesthetic surgery. His clinical approach emphasizes harmony, balance, and patient safety, making him a trusted choice among both domestic and international patients seeking high-quality cosmetic care in Korea.
Dr. Choi is actively involved in professional and academic societies, maintaining strong engagement with advancements in aesthetic medicine. He is a member of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgery, the Korean Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the Korean Academic Association of Rejuvenation. In addition, he serves as an Executive Board Member of the International Fellowship in Advanced Aesthetic Science (IFAAS), reflecting his leadership role in global aesthetic education and innovation.
19. Dr. Kim Young Sik – Urologist
Dr. Kim Young Sik, MD is a distinguished urology specialist in South Korea with extensive expertise in urologic cancers and advanced minimally invasive surgery. His clinical focus includes prostate, kidney, and bladder cancer, as well as female urinary incontinence and kidney transplantation, making him a leading authority in complex urological care.
Dr. Kim completed his undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral medical education at Yonsei University College of Medicine and received specialized urology training at Sinchon Severance Hospital. He further strengthened his expertise through advanced training in robot-assisted and minimally invasive urologic surgery at UCI Medical Center in the United States.
Currently, Dr. Kim serves as Director of the Department of Urology and Director of the Robotic Surgery Center at National Health Insurance Ilsan Hospital, while also holding the position of Clinical Professor of Urology at Yonsei University College of Medicine. His leadership roles reflect his commitment to both patient care and surgical innovation.
Actively engaged in academic and professional organizations, Dr. Kim is a member of leading national and international urological societies, including the American Urological Association (AUA) and the International Society of Urinary Incontinence (ICS). He is widely respected for advancing robotic urologic surgery and improving outcomes for patients with complex urologic conditions.
20. Dr. Jang Yol Na – Anesthesiologist
Dr. Jang Yol Na, MD is a highly experienced anesthesiologist based in South Korea, currently practicing at Hershe Plastic Surgery Clinic. He specializes in safe anesthesia administration and perioperative patient monitoring, ensuring optimal pain control and stable vital signs throughout surgical procedures.
With a strong focus on patient safety and comfort, Dr. Jang plays a critical role in complex aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries, supporting smooth operations and faster recovery outcomes. He is an active member of the Korean Society of Anesthesiologists and the Korean Society of Pain, reflecting his commitment to best practices in anesthesia and pain management.
The doctors featured in this list represent the very best of South Korea’s medical community—professionals whose dedication, expertise, and innovation have transformed patient care both locally and internationally. Whether in trauma surgery, oncology, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, dentistry, urology, or anesthesiology, each physician has played a meaningful role in advancing modern medicine.
For readers seeking trusted medical expertise in South Korea, these doctors exemplify excellence, leadership, and unwavering commitment to patient well-being.