FAQ
What Does Board-Certified Dermatologist Mean in Seoul, Korea?
Quick answer
In Korea, a board-certified dermatologist (피부과 전문의) is a medical doctor who completed specialist dermatology residency training after medical school and passed the national specialist board exam. Many Korean skin clinics are run by doctors without this specialty. The Heal in Jamsil, Seoul is led by Dr. Yang Jeong-hwa, a board-certified dermatologist. Book a consultation to meet Dr. Yang in person.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yang Jeong-hwa , board-certified dermatologist · Updated October 2026
Korean title
피부과 전문의
Training
Internship + residency
Certification
National specialist exam
How does a doctor become a dermatologist in Korea?
After graduating from medical school and passing the national medical license exam, a doctor must complete a one-year internship and a multi-year dermatology residency at a training hospital. Residency covers medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology, including skin disease diagnosis, pathology and lasers. Only after passing the specialist board exam can they use the title 피부과 전문의 (dermatology specialist).
Dr. Yang is a Seoul National University College of Medicine graduate and board-certified dermatologist. Read more in meet Dr. Yang Jeong-hwa .
Why it matters: not every skin clinic is a dermatology clinic
In Korea, any licensed doctor may legally provide cosmetic skin procedures. As a result, many clinics offering lasers, Botox and lifting are run by general practitioners or doctors from other specialties. Board-certified dermatologists are a minority among clinics offering skin treatments.
Specialist training matters most when diagnosing what is really going on, for example telling melasma from other pigment, choosing safe settings for darker skin, or recognizing a skin growth that needs a biopsy rather than laser removal.
How to check a clinic's credentials
- Look for 피부과 전문의 on the doctor's profile, certificates or clinic signage.
- In Korea, a clinic name containing "피부과" generally signals a dermatology specialist clinic; names like "skin clinic" may not.
- Ask who will examine you and who will perform the treatment.
- Check the doctor's medical school and residency background.
More tips are in choosing a dermatologist in Korea and English-speaking dermatologist in Seoul .
Is board certification the same as in the US?
The concept is similar: specialist training plus a board exam. Systems differ in details, so the Korean title is not automatically equivalent to US, UK or Australian certification for practicing abroad. For patients, the key point is the same: you are being treated by a doctor with formal specialist training in skin. Learn how we review our content in our medical review policy .
Want specialist care on your trip? Book with a board-certified dermatologist in Jamsil.
Expert review
Dr. Yang Jeong-hwa
Medical Director · Board-certified dermatologist · Seoul National University College of Medicine
Written for international patients and reviewed for medical accuracy. Individual results vary; your plan is decided in person after a skin assessment. Our review policy
Visit us
The Heal Dermatology Clinic Jamsil
4F, 329 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Korea
5 min walk from Jamsil Station (Line 8), Exit 9
Mon & Fri 10:00–20:00
Tue–Thu 10:00–19:30
Sat 09:30–16:00 · Sun & holidays closed
International patients
Visiting Seoul? Get your plan before you fly.
English consultations with a board-certified dermatologist, 5 minutes from Jamsil Station. Treatments are scheduled around your downtime and flights. International patient guide
1
Message us
Concerns, optional photos and travel dates via form or KakaoTalk.
2
Get your plan
Suggested treatments and timing around your flights.
3
Consult & treat
In-person assessment with Dr. Yang in English, then treatment.
Frequently asked
What does board-certified dermatologist mean in Korea? Related questions
Is a cosmetic doctor the same as a dermatologist in Korea?
No. A cosmetic doctor may be any licensed physician. A dermatologist has completed specialist dermatology training and the board exam.
Does The Heal's doctor perform treatments personally?
Dr. Yang examines patients and designs each plan. Ask at consultation who will perform each step of your treatment.
Can a dermatologist also treat skin diseases?
Yes. Dermatologists treat eczema, acne, warts, skin growths and other conditions, as well as cosmetic concerns.
Does board certification mean better results?
No doctor can promise results, but specialist training supports accurate diagnosis and safer treatment choices. Results vary from person to person.
English consultations in Jamsil, Seoul
Specialist dermatology care while you are in Seoul
Send your photos and travel dates. We reply with a personalised plan before you fly.