Gangnam Severance Hospital provides JCI-accredited alcoholism treatment programs in Seoul. Treatment costs around $370,000–$373,400. The multidisciplinary team includes specialists in neurology and behavioral health.
","text_type":"mt_wow_description","agency_settings":[{"setting_name":"is_new","setting_value":"0"},{"setting_name":"kids_only","setting_value":"0"}],"procedure_prices":[{"prices":{"price_from":2070,"price_to":2070,"currency":"USD","id":15670},"diagnostic":{"id":146,"name":"Genetic screening","alias":"genetic-screening"}}],"reviews":[],"clinic":{"id":439,"alias":"gangnam-severance-hospital","name":"Gangnam Severance Hospital","short_description":"Gangnam Severance Hospital is a JCI-accredited university hospital in Seoul's Gangnam district. It was the first in South Korea to perform a lung transplant. The hospital's core strengths are oncology, neurosurgery, neurology, cardiology, and comprehensive health check-ups.
The procedure aids in overcoming substance dependency, employing therapy, medication, and support for life alterations.
"},"524":{"operation":{"name":"Alcoholism treatment","alias":"alcoholism-treatment","use_for_listing":true},"country_price":{"US":{"amount":18000,"max_amount":45000,"currency":"USD","clinic_count":0,"price_kind":"estimate","price_source":"parsed","scope":"country"},"TR":{"amount":4100,"max_amount":6500,"currency":"USD","clinic_count":1,"price_kind":"from_range","price_source":"tariff","scope":"country"},"TH":{"amount":12400,"max_amount":13200,"currency":"USD","clinic_count":1,"price_kind":"from_range","price_source":"tariff","scope":"country"},"KR":{"amount":3800,"max_amount":6800,"currency":"USD","clinic_count":0,"price_kind":"estimate","price_source":"parsed","scope":"country"},"AT":{"amount":9500,"max_amount":18500,"currency":"USD","clinic_count":0,"price_kind":"estimate","price_source":"parsed","scope":"country"}},"available_clinics":{"UA":false,"FR":false,"GB":false,"US":false,"IL":true,"TR":true,"MX":false,"DE":false,"CA":false,"AE":false,"TH":true,"PL":true,"KR":false,"CZ":false,"AT":false,"ES":true,"IT":false,"CN":false,"AU":false,"IN":false,"MY":false,"VN":false,"BR":false,"CO":true,"EG":true},"description":"This therapy aids in overcoming alcohol addiction through detoxification, counseling, medication, and long-term support.
"}}},"operationIndicators":{"details":{"anesthesia":"local","days_in_clinic":28,"days_in_country":28,"rehabilitation_days":14,"satisfied_percent":78,"treatment_duration_hours":2},"illness_kind_details":{"requests_processed":7980}},"direction":{"id":27,"name":"Psychiatry","alias":"psychiatry"},"illness_kind":{"id":27,"name":{"en":"Psychiatry"}},"parsed_details":{"procedure_type":"therapy","fields":{"anesthesia":["none"],"back_to_work_days":{"min":7,"max":28,"unit":"days","qualifier":"After withdrawal settles; depends on job demands, sedative use and clinician clearance."},"complication_rate_pct":{"min":5,"max":20,"unit":"percent","qualifier":"Any adverse event during withdrawal or medication, such as nausea or oversedation; seizures or delirium under 5%"},"contraindications":["Severe unstable medical or psychiatric condition needing higher care (relative)","Allergy or hypersensitivity to a prescribed medication (drug-specific)","Severe liver or kidney impairment for certain medications (relative, drug-specific)","Current opioid use or opioid analgesic need with naltrexone (drug-specific)","Acute suicidal risk or severe agitation needing stabilization first (relative)"],"days_in_clinic":{"min":0,"max":0,"unit":"nights","qualifier":"Outpatient protocol with daily or frequent visits; patient stays in nearby accommodation, not admitted overnight."},"diagnostic_duration_minutes":null,"diagnostic_preparation":null,"diagnostic_referral_needed":null,"diagnostic_result_time_hours":null,"exercise_resume_weeks":{"min":1,"max":2,"unit":"weeks","qualifier":"Light activity once withdrawal symptoms resolve; strenuous exercise depends on liver status and fitness."},"final_result_months":{"min":3,"max":12,"unit":"months","qualifier":"Stable abstinence or reduced drinking is judged over months of therapy, medication and aftercare."},"fly_home_after_days":{"min":7,"max":14,"unit":"days","qualifier":"After withdrawal symptoms settle and sedatives stop; earlier travel needs clinician clearance."},"follow_up_visits":[{"purpose":"assessment","after":{"min":7,"max":10,"unit":"days","qualifier":"Review of withdrawal resolution and medication tolerance."},"requirement":"routine"},{"purpose":"result_review","after":{"min":28,"max":42,"unit":"days","qualifier":"Review of drinking status, liver tests and aftercare plan, locally or remotely."},"requirement":"routine"},{"purpose":"rehabilitation","after":{"min":90,"max":180,"unit":"days","qualifier":"Ongoing counseling and relapse-prevention review, usually in home country."},"requirement":"routine"}],"indications":["Alcohol use disorder (mild to severe) in adults","Alcohol dependence with need for medically supervised withdrawal","Repeated unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop drinking","Alcohol-related harm to health, work or relationships","Relapse prevention after detoxification"],"main_risks":["Alcohol withdrawal complications including seizures and delirium tremens if unsupervised","Relapse after treatment","Side effects: nausea, drowsiness, headache, liver enzyme changes","Sedative medication used during withdrawal can cause oversedation or dependence","Mood symptoms, anxiety and sleep disturbance in early abstinence"],"pain":"Generally not painful; withdrawal may cause headache, tremor, nausea, anxiety and insomnia, usually managed with medication.","preparation":["Assessment of drinking pattern, prior withdrawal, medical and psychiatric history","Laboratory tests, such as liver function and blood count","Assessment of withdrawal risk to choose outpatient or inpatient setting","Shared goal-setting and informed consent to treatment plan","Arrange social support and time off if residential care chosen"],"recovery_timeline":[{"phase":"Withdrawal management (first days)","description":"Supervised detoxification with symptom control, typically peaking at 24-72 hours and settling within about a week.","restrictions":["No alcohol","Avoid driving and safety-critical tasks while symptomatic or sedated"]},{"phase":"Early treatment (weeks 1-12)","description":"Psychological therapy, possible relapse-prevention medication and regular monitoring.","restrictions":["Abstain from alcohol","Avoid high-risk situations and triggers"]},{"phase":"Maintenance and aftercare (months onward)","description":"Ongoing counseling, mutual support groups and periodic review to sustain abstinence or reduced drinking.","restrictions":[]}],"rehabilitation_days":{"min":7,"max":14,"unit":"days","qualifier":"Functional recovery after withdrawal; psychological therapy and aftercare continue for months."},"result_longevity":"Benefit lasts only while abstinence or reduced drinking is maintained. Relapse is common, so aftercare, support groups and sometimes medication continue long term.","revision_rate_pct":{"min":30,"max":50,"unit":"percent","qualifier":"Patients needing a repeat treatment course after relapse within 12 months; lower with long aftercare."},"scars":"No incisions, so no scars; non-invasive therapy.","sessions_or_stages":{"sessions":{"min":12,"max":30,"unit":"visits","qualifier":"Daily visits in early weeks, then less frequent therapy and medical review visits."},"stages":[{"code":"detoxification","label":"Medically supervised withdrawal with symptom control","after":{"min":0,"max":7,"unit":"days","qualifier":"Peaks at 24-72 hours, settles within about a week."}},{"code":"psychotherapy","label":"Cognitive behavioral and motivational therapy","after":{"min":7,"max":42,"unit":"days","qualifier":"Individual and group sessions after withdrawal."}},{"code":"relapse_prevention","label":"Relapse-prevention medication and aftercare planning","after":{"min":7,"max":42,"unit":"days","qualifier":"Medication started after withdrawal; continued for months."}}],"qualifier":"Withdrawal management followed by therapy and relapse-prevention medication, with aftercare continuing at home."},"success":{"metric":"Abstinent or non-heavy drinking at follow-up","value":40,"unit":"percent of patients","horizon":"12 months","population":"Adults with alcohol use disorder completing withdrawal, therapy and relapse-prevention medication","evidence_status":"limited"},"techniques":[{"name":"Medically supervised withdrawal (detoxification)","suits_whom":"Patients with physical dependence at risk of significant withdrawal symptoms","recovery":"Acute phase typically about 3-7 days, followed by continued treatment"},{"name":"Psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement)","suits_whom":"Most patients with alcohol use disorder, alone or with medication","recovery":"Delivered over weeks to months with gradual improvement"},{"name":"Relapse-prevention pharmacotherapy (e.g., naltrexone, acamprosate)","suits_whom":"Patients who have completed withdrawal and want support to maintain abstinence or reduce drinking","recovery":"Taken for months under medical supervision"},{"name":"Residential rehabilitation program","suits_whom":"Patients with severe dependence, unstable home environment or failed outpatient treatment","recovery":"Structured stay of several weeks, followed by aftercare"}],"treatment_conditions":["outpatient"],"treatment_duration_hours":{"min":2,"max":6,"unit":"hours","qualifier":"Per treatment day, combining medical review and therapy sessions; shorter once detoxification ends."},"initial_assessment_documents":["Recent liver function tests","Complete blood count","Alcohol use history summary","Current psychiatric medication list","Previous detox or rehab discharge reports (if available)","ECG report"],"travel_trips":{"min":1,"max":1,"one_trip_possible":true,"qualifier":"Detoxification and initial therapy usually fit one stay of 1-2 weeks; aftercare continues remotely."},"clinic_checks":{"status":"ok","items":[{"id":"C1","text":"Check that treatment includes medical help for withdrawal symptoms when stopping alcohol","scope":"procedure","source":{"url":"https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/","host":"nhs.uk","quote":"medical help for withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking alcohol, either at home or in hospital.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200}},{"id":"C2","text":"Check that the clinic offers talking therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy","scope":"procedure","source":{"url":"https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/","host":"nhs.uk","quote":"talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200}},{"id":"C3","text":"Ask whether a doctor is always present in the clinic and whether a high dependency or intensive care unit exists","scope":"treatment_abroad","source":{"url":"https://www.bapras.org.uk/public/patient-information/cosmetic-surgery/cosmetic-surgery-abroad","host":"bapras.org.uk","quote":"Is there always a doctor in the clinic and is there a high dependency or intensive care unit?","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-11","http_status":200}},{"id":"C4","text":"Confirm the surgeon is trained and experienced in the exact procedure you are considering, not just in surgery generally","scope":"treatment_abroad","source":{"url":"https://www.isaps.org/discover/patients-home/considering-your-procedure-abroad/finding-a-surgeon-abroad/","host":"isaps.org","quote":"Verify that the surgeon is trained and experienced in performing the procedure you are considering.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-11","http_status":200}},{"id":"C5","text":"Ask for certification information and the name of the body that certified the surgical setting","scope":"treatment_abroad","source":{"url":"https://www.isaps.org/discover/patients-home/considering-your-procedure-abroad/finding-a-surgeon-abroad/","host":"isaps.org","quote":"Ask for certification information and the name of the certifying body when assessing a surgical setting.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-11","http_status":200}}],"checked_at":"2026-11-12","next_check_at":"2027-11-12","version":1},"red_flags":{"status":"ok","items":[{"id":"F1","text":"An advert or information that guarantees complete success should raise concerns","scope":"treatment_abroad","source":{"url":"https://travelaware.campaign.gov.uk/surgery-abroad-cut-out-the-risk/","host":"travelaware.campaign.gov.uk","quote":"Any advert or information that guarantees complete success should raise concerns.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-11","http_status":200}},{"id":"F2","text":"Forceful persuasion or cheap, time-limited offers pushing you into a quick decision","scope":"treatment_abroad","source":{"url":"https://travelaware.campaign.gov.uk/surgery-abroad-cut-out-the-risk/","host":"travelaware.campaign.gov.uk","quote":"Don’t be pressured into quick decisions either through forceful persuasion or cheap, time limited offers.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-11","http_status":200}},{"id":"F3","text":"A price that sounds too good to be true probably is","scope":"treatment_abroad","source":{"url":"https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/will-economic-uncertainty-drive-more-patients-overseas-for-plastic-surgery-what-to-consider-and-how-to-stretch-your-dollar-back-home","host":"plasticsurgery.org","quote":"If the price sounds too good to be true, it probably is.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-11","http_status":200}}],"checked_at":"2026-11-12","next_check_at":"2027-11-12","version":1},"warning_signs":{"status":"ok","items":[{"id":"W1","text":"Seizures during alcohol withdrawal","urgency":"emergency","general":false,"source":{"url":"https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/alcohol-withdrawal","host":"my.clevelandclinic.org","quote":"If you have severe or complicated withdrawal, your seizure risk is highest 24 to 48 hours after your last drink.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200}},{"id":"W2","text":"Seeing or hearing things that are not there","urgency":"emergency","general":false,"source":{"url":"https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/","host":"nhs.uk","quote":"seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200}},{"id":"W3","text":"Confusion about what day it is","urgency":"emergency","general":false,"source":{"url":"https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/","host":"nhs.uk","quote":"confusion (for example, not knowing what day it is)","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200}},{"id":"W4","text":"Sweating or being sick when trying to stop","urgency":"contact_clinic","general":false,"source":{"url":"https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/","host":"nhs.uk","quote":"you get symptoms like anxiety, difficulty sleeping, sweating or feeling and being sick when you try to stop drinking","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200}}],"checked_at":"2026-11-12","next_check_at":"2027-11-12","version":1},"take_home":{"status":"ok","items":[{"id":"T1","text":"Home doctor needs the clinic's follow-up recommendations in a written discharge summary","document":"discharge summary","source":{"url":"https://sbuhb.nhs.wales/about-us/individual-patient-commissioning/ipc-folder/advice-on-accessing-treatment-abroad","host":"sbuhb.nhs.wales","quote":"When you have treatment abroad, you must ask the treatment provider for their follow-up recommendations documented within a written discharge summary in English.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-11","http_status":200}},{"id":"T2","text":"Ask for copies of all prescriptions before you leave","document":"prescription copies","source":{"url":"https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/news/699/travelling-abroad-for-treatment","host":"travelhealthpro.org.uk","quote":"Remember to ask for copies of all your treatment records, including prescriptions, scans and x-rays before you leave.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-11","http_status":200}}],"checked_at":"2026-11-12","next_check_at":"2027-11-12","version":1},"alternatives":{"status":"ok","items":[{"id":"A1","text":"You would prefer support from people going through the same thing","name":"Alcohol support groups","source":{"url":"https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/","host":"nhs.uk","quote":"There are also charities and peer support groups where you can get support from other people going through the same thing.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200},"operation_id":null}],"checked_at":"2026-11-12","next_check_at":"2027-11-12","version":1},"technique_details":{"status":"ok","items":[{"id":"medically-supervised","name":"Medically supervised withdrawal (detoxification)","how_it_works":{"text":"Doctors prescribe medicines to ease withdrawal symptoms and make it safer","source":{"url":"https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/treatment-alcohol-problems-finding-and-getting-help","host":"niaaa.nih.gov","quote":"Doctors can prescribe medications to address these symptoms and make the process safer and less distressing.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200}},"recovery_daily":{"status":"missing","reason":"no_official_source"}},{"id":"psychotherapy","name":"Psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement)","how_it_works":{"text":"Counseling aims to change drinking behavior","source":{"url":"https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/treatment-alcohol-problems-finding-and-getting-help","host":"niaaa.nih.gov","quote":"Behavioral treatments are aimed at changing drinking behavior through counseling.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200}},"recovery_daily":{"status":"missing","reason":"no_official_source"}},{"id":"relapse-prevention","name":"Relapse-prevention pharmacotherapy (e.g., naltrexone, acamprosate)","how_it_works":{"text":"Medicines help reduce the urge to drink","source":{"url":"https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/treatment-alcohol-problems-finding-and-getting-help","host":"niaaa.nih.gov","quote":"Naltrexone is available as a pill or injection and helps reduce the urge to drink.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200}},"recovery_daily":{"status":"missing","reason":"no_official_source"}},{"id":"residential-rehabilitation","name":"Residential rehabilitation program","how_it_works":{"text":"Treatment is given in round-the-clock settings at varying intensity","source":{"url":"https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/health-professionals-communities/core-resource-on-alcohol/recommend-evidence-based-treatment-know-options","host":"niaaa.nih.gov","quote":"Low or high intensity programs in 24-hour treatment settings.","tier":"tier1_medical","fetched_at":"2026-11-12","http_status":200}},"recovery_daily":{"status":"missing","reason":"no_official_source"}}],"checked_at":"2026-11-12","next_check_at":"2027-11-12","version":1}}},"hrefLanguages":[{"rel":"alternate","hreflang":"ru","language":"ru","href":"https://ru.bookimed.com/clinics/country=republic-of-korea/procedure=kurs-lecheniya-alkogolizma/"}],"questionsAndAnswers":[{"id":"69e0f7b45ff99d4f8d0aefd2","question":"What treatments are used for alcoholism in South Korea?","answer":"Alcoholism treatment in South Korea combines hospital-based detoxification, pharmaceutical intervention, and traditional Korean medicine (hanbang). JCI-accredited facilities like Gangnam Severance Hospital provide acute stabilization. Common clinical protocols include intravenous nutritional support, sedative-assisted withdrawal management, and pharmaceutical therapies using Naltrexone or Acamprosate to modulate cravings.
Bookimed Expert Insight: South Korean medical systems prioritize physiological stabilization over long-term talk therapy. Patients often find that Seoul-based clinics offer rapid access to specialized psychiatrists. These doctors focus on liver restoration and medication-assisted treatment. This approach is highly effective for rapid physical recovery from chronic alcohol abuse.
Patient Consensus: Many patients find hospital stays focus extensively on heavy sedation for detox. They recommend combining clinical care with local church groups or AA meetings in Itaewon for emotional support.
","is_active":true,"created_at":"2026-04-16T14:52:36.123+00:00","category":{"id":"68f5f2ea1567cb687e0a7542","name":"faq_content","title":"faq_content"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"},{"key":"operation","value":"alcoholism-treatment"}]},{"id":"69e0f7f65ff99d4f8d0aefd3","question":"Is alcohol detox in Korea safe and what are the medical standards?","answer":"Medical alcohol detox in Korea is exceptionally safe when conducted within JCI-accredited hospitals like Gangnam Severance. Facilities follow evidence-based protocols including benzodiazepine-assisted withdrawal, IV hydration, and thiamine thiamin supplementation. Clinical standards align with American Society of Addiction Medicine guidelines, providing 24/7 nursing supervision throughout the 3–10 day stabilization period.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While local clinics may focus mainly on physical stabilization, major Seoul hospitals offer superior luxury. International patients often receive care in VIP wings that feel like high-end hotels. This helps bypass the local cultural stigma associated with addiction treatment while ensuring fast admission. This speed often exceeds Western health system timelines significantly.
Patient Consensus: Patients report that while medical care is highly efficient, there is a heavy reliance on pharmaceuticals. International visitors should bring a translator app for consent forms and proactively arrange their own follow-up support.
","is_active":true,"created_at":"2026-04-16T14:53:42.065+00:00","category":{"id":"68f5f2ea1567cb687e0a7542","name":"faq_content","title":"faq_content"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"},{"key":"operation","value":"alcoholism-treatment"}]},{"id":"69e0f8449c4c3af7b8056972","question":"Who is eligible for inpatient detox in Korea?","answer":"Eligibility for inpatient detox in the Republic of Korea depends on physical dependency and medical risk factors. Candidates typically demonstrate severe withdrawal risks, such as history of seizures, or co-occurring liver disease. Facilities like Gangnam Severance Hospital prioritize patients requiring monitored detoxification within Joint Commission International accredited settings.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While public hospitals have strict criteria, private JCI-accredited centers in Seoul offer more flexibility. These facilities often combine detox with advanced diagnostics, using AI and robotics as seen at Gangnam Severance Hospital. International patients should prepare for upfront payments as uninsured stays are typically priced outside national health insurance schemes.
Patient Consensus: Many find that mentioning physical symptoms like tremors speeds up the admission process. Those with existing psychiatric conditions are often redirected to specialized psychiatric hospitals for integrated care.
","is_active":true,"created_at":"2026-04-16T14:55:00.060+00:00","category":{"id":"68f5f2ea1567cb687e0a7542","name":"faq_content","title":"faq_content"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"},{"key":"operation","value":"alcoholism-treatment"}]},{"id":"69e0f88a506f1c54b8063a82","question":"How long will I stay and what does the aftercare look like?","answer":"Alcoholism treatment in South Korea typically requires an inpatient stay of 10 to 21 days for medically supervised detoxification. Recovery involves pharmacological support, family behavioral therapy, and integrated holistic care. Severe cases involving liver complications may extend hospitalization to 4 or 6 weeks.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Major centers like Gangnam Severance Hospital operate under JCI and KOIHA standards, ensuring high safety. Bookimed data shows these facilities often integrate advanced diagnostic imaging to monitor organ recovery. This technical precision helps personalize the transition from intensive detox to long-term sobriety maintenance.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize that while the strict no-visitor policy helps maintain focus, discharge can feel sudden. They recommend sourcing local sponsors and non-alcoholic alternatives before the treatment ends to ensure a smoother transition.
","is_active":true,"created_at":"2026-04-16T14:56:10.888+00:00","category":{"id":"68f5f2ea1567cb687e0a7542","name":"faq_content","title":"faq_content"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"},{"key":"operation","value":"alcoholism-treatment"}]},{"id":"69e0f8d82afa8318720abb12","question":"What side-effects or complications may appear?","answer":"Alcoholism treatment in South Korea involves detox and medication, carrying risks like autonomic instability or medication reactions. Most patients experience mild nausea or dizziness. Serious complications like seizures or delirium tremens are rare within JCI-accredited facilities like Gangnam Severance Hospital in Seoul.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While many programs globally focus on outpatient care, Seoul hospitals often prioritize inpatient stays. This high-supervision model at facilities like Gangnam Severance Hospital ensures vital signs remain stable. Korean protocols may use higher medication doses for faster sobriety, making 24-hour monitoring essential.
Patient Consensus: Patients often mention the intensity of Disulfiram reactions, noting that flushing and heart palpitations can last over 24 hours. The structured environment helps manage these symptoms, though the rigorous nutritional plans can be physically demanding.
","is_active":true,"created_at":"2026-04-16T14:57:28.651+00:00","category":{"id":"68f5f2ea1567cb687e0a7542","name":"faq_content","title":"faq_content"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"},{"key":"operation","value":"alcoholism-treatment"}]},{"id":"69e0f9179aebade6fe01d232","question":"What success rate does Korean alcoholism treatment have?","answer":"Alcoholism treatment success rates in the Republic of Korea vary by program intensity and follow-up care. Initial detoxification achieves an 80% sobering rate for acute cases. However, long-term sobriety at one year remains approximately 15% to 30% due to significant cultural drinking pressures and social stigma.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Success in Korea depends heavily on post-discharge strategy rather than just the clinical detox. While primary treatment at JCI-accredited centers costs _op_524_price_from_ to _op_524_price_to_, the highest retention occurs at international-facing clinics. These centers offer digital aftercare to bypass local cultural pressures that often trigger relapse.
Patient Consensus: Patients report that inpatient detox is highly effective for immediate safety. However, many emphasize that the intense work-culture pressure makes long-term sobriety difficult without family involvement and lifestyle therapy.
","is_active":true,"created_at":"2026-04-16T14:58:31.919+00:00","category":{"id":"68f5f2ea1567cb687e0a7542","name":"faq_content","title":"faq_content"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"},{"key":"operation","value":"alcoholism-treatment"}]},{"id":"69e0f9628b384ca496057d72","question":"Are family sessions included and where is treatment carried out?","answer":"Family sessions are not standard in Republic of Korea alcoholism programs and often require specific add-on requests. Treatment primarily occurs in specialized urban hospitals in Seoul, such as Gangnam Severance Hospital, focusing on 2–4 week inpatient stays featuring intensive medical stabilization and individual counseling.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While Western models prioritize family integration, Korean protocols often emphasize detox and inpatient isolation. Clinics like Gangnam Severance Hospital focus on high-tech diagnostic care. Patients should use KakaoTalk to negotiate family session additions before arrival as they are rarely bundled by default.
Patient Consensus: Many find family visits are limited to weekends and restricted during early treatment phases. Patients recommend seeking English-friendly support groups in areas like Itaewon to bridge the gap in family-inclusive care.
","is_active":true,"created_at":"2026-04-16T14:59:46.058+00:00","category":{"id":"68f5f2ea1567cb687e0a7542","name":"faq_content","title":"faq_content"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"},{"key":"operation","value":"alcoholism-treatment"}]},{"id":"6a4ff9d9c05dad766f072cb2","question":"What medications are used for alcohol addiction treatment in South Korea?","answer":"South Korean clinics treat alcohol addiction using evidence-based pharmacotherapy combined with intensive medical detox. Specialists prescribe anti-craving medications such as Naltrexone and Acamprosate as first-line treatments. Benzodiazepines like Diazepam commonly manage acute withdrawal, while high-dose vitamins address chronic nutritional deficiencies.
\n\nBookimed Expert Insight: Prestigious centres like SNU Hospital have wait times up to 3 months. However, specialised addiction facilities often provide faster access. Gangnam Severance Hospital offers JCI-accredited care with free interpreter services. This is vital because Korean medical protocols are strict and require clear communication during the initial assessment.
\n\nPatient Consensus: Treatment centres in South Korea provide strong medical support and structured inpatient options. Patients suggest booking assessments 3 weeks ahead to secure a bed in specialised clinics. Success relies on continuing prescribed medications despite any social pressure to stop during recovery.
\n","is_active":true,"created_at":"2026-07-09T19:43:21.447+00:00","category":{"id":"6a06f09a5f96e66bc80340b2","name":"faq_content_au","title":"faq_content_au"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"},{"key":"operation","value":"alcoholism-treatment"}]},{"id":"6a4ffa7d6838e4f10c0ac0d3","question":"What is the general approach to alcoholism treatment in South Korea?","answer":"Alcoholism treatment in South Korea follows a medically integrated approach. It combines supervised detox, pharmacological support, and psychotherapy. Specialist hospitals in Seoul, such as Gangnam Severance Hospital, use JCI-accredited protocols. These protocols help manage withdrawal safely. Treatments typically involve benzodiazepines for detoxification alongside relapse-prevention medications like naltrexone or acamprosate.
\n\nBookimed Expert Insight: South Korea is famous for cosmetic surgery. However, its university hospitals offer significant value for addiction care. Treatment costs from _op_524_price_from_ to _op_524_price_to_, which is _price_percent_discount_% less than the _price_compare_AU_average_ Australian average. These hospitals maintain rigorous JCI standards that Australian health authorities recognise for quality and safety.
\n\nPatient Consensus: Patients in South Korea use health-related excuses to decline drinks. They find this helps them navigate the heavy drinking culture. Detox must be professionally supervised. Many also benefit from combining medical care with English-speaking private counsellors.
\n","is_active":true,"created_at":"2026-07-09T19:46:05.963+00:00","category":{"id":"6a06f09a5f96e66bc80340b2","name":"faq_content_au","title":"faq_content_au"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"},{"key":"operation","value":"alcoholism-treatment"}]},{"id":"6a4ffb9f951da22a3e01d4b2","question":"Where can I find treatment for alcoholism in South Korea?","answer":"International patients find alcoholism treatment in South Korea at specialised psychiatric hospitals and university centres. One example is Gangnam Severance Hospital in Seoul. Facilities prioritising international care often provide JCI-accredited medical detoxification, inpatient rehabilitation, and comprehensive outpatient support. This helps manage recovery within Korea's distinct social drinking culture.
\n\nBookimed Expert Insight: Korean medical centres often bundle high-end amenities with clinical care. Gangnam Severance Hospital offers VIP check-up programs alongside specialised neuro-science departments. For Australian patients, this means accessing hospital-based detox that matches private clinic standards. It costs around _price_percent_discount_% less than Australian private hospital rates.
\n\nPatient Consensus: Patients find that professional detox is essential because alcohol withdrawal is dangerous alone. Support groups and virtual meetings in South Korea provide the vital community. This is needed for sobriety.
\n","is_active":true,"created_at":"2026-07-09T19:50:55.949+00:00","category":{"id":"6a06f09a5f96e66bc80340b2","name":"faq_content_au","title":"faq_content_au"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"},{"key":"operation","value":"alcoholism-treatment"}]},{"id":"5ed9f08a88e8aa5daa4ae4c3","question":"Do I need a visa to South Korea?","answer":"Today, South Korea has visa-free agreements with 112 states. None visa is required for stays under 90 days or less. To stay longer in this country, you need a visa. What states need a visa for treatment in South Korea and what countries can cross the border free and easy read here.
","is_active":true,"created_at":"2020-06-05T07:13:14.000+00:00","category":{"id":"5e3aa27eb517bb3ffb486c42","name":"Texts","title":"Texts"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"}]},{"id":"5ed9ee4e31e02c46c85d468f","question":"What is the level of medicine in South Korea?","answer":"Healthcare is the key development sector of the Korean government. The Korean authorities are convinced that care for the citizens' health should be an absolute priority of state policy and spend about 1 billion a year for medical tourists attraction.
According to Mark Britnell, hospitals dominate the health system. 94% of hospitals are privately owned.
","is_active":true,"created_at":"2020-06-05T07:03:42.000+00:00","category":{"id":"5e3aa27eb517bb3ffb486c42","name":"Texts","title":"Texts"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"}]},{"id":"5ed9f23388e8aa5daa4ae4c6","question":"What are the most popular plastic surgery procedures?","answer":"According to ASPS statistics, 17.7 mln cosmetic surgeries and 5.8 mln reconstructive procedures have been performed in 2018. Among cosmetic procedures the most popular are:
Tumor removal, laceration repair, maxillofacial surgery, scar revision, hand surgery are the most common operations in the context of reconstructive surgery.
","is_active":true,"created_at":"2020-06-05T07:20:19.000+00:00","category":{"id":"5e3aa27eb517bb3ffb486c42","name":"Texts","title":"Texts"},"relations":[{"key":"country","value":"republic-of-korea"}]},{"id":"5ed9f0ae88e8aa5daa4ae4c4","question":"What documents are required to apply for a visa to South Korea for treatment?","answer":"Visas for travel to South Korea require a number of documents. The necessary papers can be submitted 90 days before the planned departure. Lists of documents includes:
Currency | South Korean Won (you also can pay for services in dollars) |
Best period for the trip | April, May & June or September, October & November. |
Language | Korean (most of medical staff speaks English fluently) |
Visa | none required for stays under 90 days or less |
Time difference with Europe | 9 hours |
Time difference with the USA | 9 hours |
Capital | Seoul |
Medical tourism center | Seoul |
Popular resorts | Gangwon-do, Gyeongju, Boseong, Jeju |
In South Korea, hotels of different price ranges and service levels are presented. Most tourists choose 4 and 5 star hotels with all-inclusive meals. Such hotels have everything for a comfortable stay: varied food, a large well-groomed territory, animation for children and adults. Some hotels have their own water park, which guests can use for free. Budget travelers can afford to book an economical 3-star hotel with half board or no meals at all.
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