Quick answer: Apgujeong and Cheongdam skin clinics sit side by side in northern Gangnam-gu and are both known for lifting and anti-aging treatments. Apgujeong has many clinics along its main roads and Rodeo Street. Cheongdam is quieter and more upscale. The doctor, devices and plan matter more than which of the two neighbourhoods you choose.
Key takeaways
- Apgujeong and Cheongdam are neighbouring areas north of Gangnam Station, near the Han River.
- Apgujeong is served by Apgujeong Station (Line 3) and Apgujeong Rodeo Station (Suin-Bundang Line).
- Cheongdam is served by Cheongdam Station (Line 7) and is a short taxi ride from Apgujeong Rodeo.
- Both areas are known for lifting, skin boosters and injectables.
- Gangnam Station offers similar treatments with easier subway and airport bus links.
What is Apgujeong known for?
Apgujeong became famous in the 1990s as one of the first centres of aesthetic medicine in Seoul. Today the streets around Apgujeong Station and Apgujeong Rodeo have many dermatology and plastic surgery clinics, along with department stores, fashion shops and cafes. Clinics here offer the full range of non-surgical lifting, including Ultherapy, Thermage, thread lifts and HIFU devices, as well as fillers, Botox and skin boosters such as Rejuran. Many have long experience with international patients.
What is Cheongdam known for?
Cheongdam lies just east of Apgujeong. It is known for luxury fashion boutiques, entertainment agencies, fine dining and quiet residential streets. Clinics in Cheongdam often focus on private, appointment-based care with a calm atmosphere. Many people link Cheongdam with celebrity skin care, and clinics here commonly offer anti-aging plans that combine lifting devices, skin boosters and careful injectables over several visits.
How do Apgujeong and Cheongdam compare?
- Location: both are in northern Gangnam-gu, south of the Han River; Cheongdam is just east of Apgujeong.
- Subway: Apgujeong on Line 3 and the Suin-Bundang Line; Cheongdam on Line 7.
- Atmosphere: Apgujeong is busy and commercial; Cheongdam is quieter and more exclusive.
- Treatment focus: both cover lifting, injectables and skin quality; Cheongdam clinics often emphasise private anti-aging plans.
- Clinic density: Apgujeong has more clinics close together; Cheongdam clinics are more spread out.
- Getting there from the airport: both usually need a transfer or an airport limousine bus.
Which area is better for lifting treatments?
Both areas offer the main lifting treatments: Ultherapy, Thermage FLX, Oligio, Sofwave, thread lifts and HIFU devices such as Shurink. The result depends far more on the doctor's assessment and technique than on the street name. A good lifting doctor checks your skin thickness, fat volume and degree of sagging, then decides the depth, the number of lines and whether to combine devices. Ask who will perform the treatment and how many similar treatments they do.
Which area is better for anti-aging injectables?
Fillers, Botox, Rejuran, Juvelook and Sculptra are widely available in both neighbourhoods. For natural results, look for a doctor who studies your face at rest and when you move, explains how much product is needed and why, and plans conservative steps rather than doing everything in one visit. Genuine products and clear aftercare instructions are essential wherever you go.
How do prices compare?
Prices in Apgujeong and Cheongdam are often similar to other parts of Gangnam, but they vary by clinic, device, product and the number of shots or units. Some premium clinics charge more for private rooms or celebrity-style service. Compare quotes by checking what is included: the exact device or product, the number of shots or syringes, numbing, follow-up visits and any taxes. A detailed quote is more useful than a headline price.
How easy are they to reach?
From Gangnam Station, Apgujeong is about 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or about 25 minutes by subway with a transfer. Cheongdam is a similar distance. If you stay near Gangnam Station, Sinnonhyeon or Yeoksam, a clinic close to Gangnam Station can save time between appointments, shopping and meals.
How to choose
Korea treated about 2.01 million foreign patients in 2025, and around 63% came for dermatology, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Lifting and anti-aging treatments are among the most popular requests. Choose a clinic where a doctor assesses your face in person, explains which devices suit you, performs the treatment, and offers clear aftercare in your language.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cheongdam more expensive than Apgujeong?
Not always. Prices depend on the clinic, the device and the plan more than the neighbourhood.
Can I walk between Apgujeong and Cheongdam?
Yes. Apgujeong Rodeo and Cheongdam are about 15 to 20 minutes apart on foot.
Which area has more English-speaking clinics?
Both have clinics with English support. Always confirm before booking.
Is Gangnam Station a good alternative?
Yes. Gangnam Station has many experienced clinics and is easier to reach by subway and airport bus.
Sources
- Ministry of Health and Welfare, Republic of Korea – 2025 foreign patient statistics (press release, 2026).
- Seoul Metro – subway line and station information.
- Gangnam-gu Office – medical tourism information.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Results vary between individuals. Please consult a qualified physician before any treatment.
