In 2022, around 46,300 international patients ventured to South Korea in pursuit of cosmetic surgery, according to Statista. Although this number has seen substantial growth, it still lags behind pre-COVID-19 figures. 

Prior to 2020, South Korea had been witnessing a steady rise in foreign visitors seeking medical services, particularly in the field of plastic and cosmetic surgery. Among these medical tourists, the United States and China comprised the largest contingent, followed by individuals from other Asian regions such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Mongolia. Chinese nationals alone constituted roughly 17.7 percent of all foreign patients, with the majority being women in their 20s and 30s. 

By 2023, the South Korean cosmetic surgery market is predicted to reach an impressive $1.5 billion USD, driven by increasing adherence to medical standards. Furthermore, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.20% is projected for the period 2024-2032, potentially culminating in a market worth $4.6 billion USD by 2032. Multiple factors contribute to the popularity of traveling to South Korea for cosmetic surgery, with five key reasons standing out. 

1. Cutting-Edge Technology - South Korea is renowned for adopting advanced and innovative technologies in surgical procedures. From utilizing AI for analysis and surgical planning to employing VR technology for preoperative simulations, patients benefit from clearer expectations of their desired results. 

2. Influence of Popular Culture - K-Pop, K-Drama, and Korean celebrities continue to wield significant influence over beauty trends. People seek to emulate the appearances of their favorite stars, be it the shape of their noses, eyes, or skin type. 

3. Market Growth - The South Korean cosmetic surgery market exhibits robust growth, averaging around 10-15% annually. This reflects an escalating global demand for these services. 

4. Cost and Promotions - The average cost of plastic surgery in South Korea hovers around 500,000 baht per procedure, subject to the type and complexity of the surgery. Additionally, many clinics and hospitals offer various promotions, such as installment payment plans for surgical services. Lower living expenses, including food, accommodation, and travel, further expedite decision-making for potential patients. 

5. High Satisfaction Rates - Reports from the Oppa Me application indicate that over 92% of patients express high levels of satisfaction following their plastic surgery procedures. This underscores the quality of service and outcomes delivered by cosmetic surgeons. 

For those seeking more information about plastic surgery services, hospitals, clinics, and the backgrounds of surgeons in South Korea, the Oppame platform and website (www.oppame.com) provide valuable resources for research and exploration.