Last updated: 10/3/2025

Knee replacement in Republic of Korea: Our Best Clinics and Costs 2025

Why do patients choose the Republic of Korea for knee replacement?

Accredited clinics: JCI-certified hospitals ensure top-quality care and adherence to international standards.
Latest technologies: Innovative techniques such as robotic-assisted knee replacement are employed. Advanced materials like Oxinium implants contribute to enhanced precision and longevity.
High success rates: Knee replacement surgeries in South Korea have an efficacy rate of 95%. This ensures significant pain relief and improved mobility.
Expert surgeons: Leading orthopedic surgeons, with specific certifications in knee surgery, have performed thousands of successful procedures. Their expertise and experience are well-established.

Access advanced Knee replacement solutions in trusted clinics .

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How Much Does Knee replacement Cost in Republic of Korea?

The cost of knee replacement in South Korea typically ranges from $13,500 to $14,800. Prices vary depending on the hospital, the surgeon’s experience, implant type (cemented, uncemented, or hybrid), and whether you need a partial or total replacement. In the United States, the average cost is _price_compare_us_average_ (according to AAOS). This means knee replacement in South Korea is about _price_percent_discount_% less expensive than in the U.S.

South Korean hospitals generally include pre-op tests, general or spinal anesthesia, high-quality prosthetic implants, several days of hospital stay, medications, and initial physiotherapy in the package price. In the U.S., anesthesia, prosthesis, and rehab are often billed separately from the hospital and surgeon fees. Always confirm which services and extras are included at each clinic.

	Republic of Korea	Turkey	Austria
Knee replacement	from $13,500	from $6,500	from $9,550
Knee arthroplastic	from $8,100	from $14,100	from $8,719
Unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement	-	from $3,500	-
Total knee replacement (arthroplasty) revision	-	from $7,041	-

The price research is based on updated and verified costs from the Bookimed partner clinics.

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Discover the Best Knee replacement Clinics in Republic of Korea: 10 Verified Options and Prices

The Bookimed clinic ranking is based on data science algorithms, providing a trusted, transparent, and objective comparison. It takes into account patient demand, review scores (both positive and negative), the frequency of updates to treatment options and prices, response speed, and clinic certifications.

Severance Hospital

Republic of Korea, Seoul

Clinic is certified :

Recognized by Newsweek as one of the World's Best Hospitals in 2021 and 2022, and as one of the World's Best Smart Hospitals in 2023.
Provides comprehensive care with 2,000 hospital beds dedicated to patient recovery and comfort.
Annually, over 40,000 operations are performed, showcasing extensive surgical experience.
Certified by the Korean Institute for Healthcare Accreditation, ensuring high-quality medical standards.
Supports a large number of patients with 660,000 individuals successfully completing their treatment each year.

diagnostics
Arthroscopy	$5,000 - $7,000
MRI of one area	$900 - $1,000

Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH)

Republic of Korea, Seoul

Clinic is certified :

Recognized by Global Healthcare Accreditation Program, demonstrating adherence to international standards in healthcare.
Annually, the Orthopedic Surgery Department treats 60,000 outpatients and 35,000 inpatients, showcasing extensive patient care experience.
Equipped with the BESTcare system, the hospital prioritizes treatment safety and effectiveness, especially for procedures like Knee replacement.
Each year, over 3,000 orthopedic surgeries are performed, including Knee replacements, indicating a high level of surgical activity and expertise.
Selected as one of World's Best Smart Hospitals 2023 by Newsweek, reflecting the hospital's commitment to using smart technology for patient care.

treatment
Knee replacement	$15,000 - $16,000

Gachon University Gil Medical Center

Republic of Korea, Incheon

Clinic is certified :

Recognized by the Ministry of Health of South Korea for excellence in medical research and development.
Part of an extensive network with a history dating back to 1958, ensuring decades of experience in healthcare.
Offers 1600 beds, indicating substantial capacity for patient care and accommodation.
Employs 564 physicians, ensuring a broad spectrum of medical expertise is available for patients.
Utilizes comprehensive diagnostic examination methods, including MRI and CT scans, for accurate pre-surgical planning.

diagnostics
CT (computer tomography)	$500 - $700
Consultation with an orthopedist (traumatologist)	$75

Gangnam Severance Hospital

Republic of Korea, Seoul

Clinic is certified :

Recognized for excellence in patient care, the hospital is accredited by the Korean Institute for Healthcare Accreditation.
Equipped to provide comprehensive services for knee replacement, ensuring patients receive all necessary care in one location.
Structured to offer a comfortable experience, including language assistance and accommodation arrangements for international patients.
Streamlines the treatment process with an accelerated program, allowing knee replacement procedures to commence promptly.
Facilitates patient access with transfer services, easing the logistical burden for those undergoing knee replacement surgery.

Price on request

Kang Dong Hospital

Republic of Korea, Busan

➜ Best hospital for knee replacement in Korea

Kang Dong Endoscopic Clinic is world-renowned as one of the best hospitals for knee replacement surgery among the sportsmen. The hospital is one of the official partners of the World Cup. Zinedine Zidane, the famous football player, has undergone therapy here.

➜ Over 500 joints replacement surgeries are carried out in the Endoscopic Clinic annually.

➜ No scars remain after the procedure

The Endoscopic Clinic is among pioneers to provide the multidisciplinary approach in the knee diseases treatment. Kang Dong doctors offer the cosmetic procedures to correct the defects after the knee arthroplasty (replacement).

treatment
Knee replacement	$13,500

Knee replacement in Republic of Korea: Your Travel Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Republic of Korea

Upon arrival, you should ensure you have all necessary documents, including medical records and identification, for a smooth check-in process at your accommodation.
Rest and acclimate to the local time zone to prepare for the upcoming medical procedures.
Contact your clinic coordinator to confirm your appointment schedule and any pre-operative instructions.

Day 2: Pre-operative Consultation and Tests

You need to visit the clinic for a pre-operative consultation with your assigned specialist. Discuss your specific diagnosis, such as osteoarthritis in both knees.
Undergo necessary pre-operative tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the condition of your knees and plan the total knee replacement procedure.
Discuss the type of knee replacement procedure planned, such as total knee replacement, and any specific brands or devices that may be used.
Ensure you understand the expected duration of hospitalization, typically 10-14 days, and the overall stay in the Republic of Korea, approximately 3 weeks.

Day 3: Pre-operative Preparation

Follow any dietary or medication restrictions as advised by your medical team to prepare for surgery.
Arrange for a companion or assistant to stay with you during your hospital stay if required. They may be allowed to stay in the same room.
Confirm the date and time of your surgery with the clinic.

Day 4: Surgery Day

Arrive at the hospital on time for your scheduled total knee replacement surgery.
The procedure will be performed under general anesthesia. The surgical team will replace the damaged knee joint with a prosthetic implant.
After surgery, you will be moved to a recovery room for monitoring until you regain consciousness.

Days 5-11: Post-operative Hospital Stay

You will stay in the hospital for post-operative care, which typically lasts about 7-14 days depending on your recovery progress.
Participate in physical therapy sessions to begin regaining mobility and strength in your new knee joint.
Follow all medical advice, including pain management, to ensure a smooth recovery.

Days 12-21: Recovery and Rehabilitation

Continue with outpatient physical therapy sessions to enhance your mobility and adapt to the new knee joint.
Attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.
Adhere to any lifestyle recommendations provided by your medical team, such as avoiding high-impact activities.

Day 22: Preparation for Departure

Schedule a final check-up with your surgeon to ensure you are fit to travel.
Gather all medical documents and post-operative care instructions to take home.
Confirm your travel arrangements and ensure you have assistance for your journey back home if needed.

Day 23: Departure from Republic of Korea

Ensure you have all necessary medications and care instructions for continued recovery at home.
Contact the clinic if you have any last-minute questions or require additional information before departure.
Travel home, taking care to follow any advice regarding mobility and comfort during the journey.

Post-Return Home: Ongoing Recovery

Continue with prescribed physical therapy and follow-up appointments as advised by your local healthcare provider.
Maintain communication with the clinic in Korea if you have any questions or require further information regarding your knee

Our Doctors

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Seongcheol Moon

17 years of experience

Dr. Seongcheol Moon is the Chairman of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Nanoori Hospital. He has specialized in shoulder and elbow surgery since 2008. Dr. Moon earned his medical degree at Kyung Hee University Hospital, where he also completed his residency and fellowship. He focuses on advanced orthopaedic techniques.

Dr. Moon has published 11 peer-reviewed papers in leading journals. His research has made important contributions to shoulder and elbow surgery. He is a member of the Korean Arthroscopy Association and the Korean Knee Society. He also serves on the editorial committee of the Korean Shoulder & Elbow Association.

Dr. Moon is known for his work in arthroscopic repair and total shoulder arthroplasty. His clinical results have been published in respected journals, including the American Journal of Sports Medicine and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research.

Kwangyeal Lee

31 years of experience

Dr. Kwangyeal Lee is an experienced orthopedic surgeon. He specializes in arthroscopic and total knee and shoulder surgeries. He also treats sports injuries. Dr. Lee received his MD from Catholic Medical College in Seoul in 1994. He has served as Section Chief at Sun Hospital and as Director at TeunTeun Hospital in Jeju.

Dr. Lee is a member of several professional organizations, including the Korean Knee Society, Korean Orthopedic Association, Korean Shoulder and Elbow Society, Asia-Pacific Orthopedic Association, and the Korean Sports Medical Association. He has published more than 10 peer-reviewed articles and presentations. His work includes research on ultrasonographic evaluation of biceps tendon effusion and new methods for treating rheumatoid arthritis and scapular fractures.

Video Stories from Bookimed Patients

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Procedure: Stem Cell Therapy

Clinic: ID Clinic Bangkok

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Anonymous • Consultation with an orthopaedist

Kazakhstan

Dec 13, 2022

Verified review.

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Луиза • Consultation with an orthopaedist

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Jul 15, 2022

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Kang Dong Clinic has very good specialists. Good at diagnosing. Thanks a lot.

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Varvara Chshetnikova • Hip replacement

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Oct 26, 2019

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I saw results almost immediately

Loved the staff, highly qualified, helpful and friendly. The equipment and treatment methods are top notch. Very comfortable room.

Kang Dong Hospital Kang Shin Hyuk

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Where to Get the Best Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad: Top Countries, Clinics & Costs

Written by Kateryna Zamkovska

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Updated: 12/13/2022

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A certified medical writer with 10+ years of experience, developed Bookimed’s trusted content, backed by a Master’s in Philology and medical expert interviews worldwide.

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This page may feature information relating to various medical conditions, treatments, and healthcare services available in different countries. Please be advised that the content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or guidance. Please consult with your doctor or a qualified medical professional before starting or changing medical treatment.

Our Knee replacement Techniques: What Suits You Best?

When considering Knee replacement, it’s important to understand the different techniques and which is best suited for you. Here’s a concise comparison of popular options:

Knee Arthroscopy

A minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems in the knee joint by inserting a small camera and instruments through tiny incisions.

Pros: Offers quicker recovery times than open surgery, with fewer complications. Studies show up to 80% success in treating meniscal tears.

Cons: Limited to minor repairs and may not address severe arthritis. There's a 10-20% chance of needing further surgery.

Effectiveness: Effective in 70-90% of cases for relieving pain and improving function.

Duration: 1-2 hours

Recovery: 1-6 weeks

Best for: Meniscal tears, loose fragments, and mild to moderate cartilage damage.

Prices: Cost of Knee Arthroscopy in Republic of Korea from $7,000

Knee MAKOplasty

Knee MAKOplasty is a minimally invasive knee surgery using robotic assistance to ensure precise implant placement.

Pros: Provides more precision than traditional knee surgery, with a 90% success rate in pain reduction. Minimally invasive, leading to smaller incisions and less scarring.

Cons: Requires specialized equipment and training, which may not be available in all facilities. Longer learning curve for surgeons compared to traditional methods.

Effectiveness: 98% accuracy in implant positioning, enhancing joint function and longevity.

Duration: 2-3 hours

Recovery: 4-6 weeks

Best for: Patients with osteoarthritis affecting one or two knee compartments. Suitable for individuals seeking faster recovery.

Unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement

This procedure involves replacing only one compartment of the knee joint, preserving more of the patient's natural bone and ligaments.

Pros: Retains more natural knee function with 85% of patients reporting a more natural feel compared to total knee replacement. Smaller incision results in quicker recovery.

Cons: Not suitable for patients with severe arthritis affecting multiple compartments. Revision rate is higher, with about 10% needing further surgery within 10 years.

Effectiveness: 10-year survival rate is approximately 85%.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Recovery: 3-6 months.

Best for: Patients with arthritis confined to a single knee compartment. Ideal for those under 60 years old.

FAQ about Knee replacement in Republic of Korea

These FAQs come from real patients seeking medical assistance through Bookimed. Answers are given by experienced medical coordinators and trusted clinic representatives.

What should you know about South Korea before the trip?

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

What is the level of medicine in South Korea?

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.

What hotel services are provided here?

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.

Do I need a visa to South Korea?

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.

What documents are required to apply for a visa to South Korea for treatment?

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:

ID card
confirmation of online registration and filling out the questionnaire
certificate of income and availability of funds
insurance policy for a stay in South Korea (original and copy)
2 photos (5x6)
visa receipt
booking of flight and hotel
medical opinion about the need for treatment.

What are the most popular plastic surgery procedures?

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:

breast augmentation
liposuction
rhinoplasty (nose job)
eyelid surgery
tummy tuck.

Tumor removal, laceration repair, maxillofacial surgery, scar revision, hand surgery are the most common operations in the context of reconstructive surgery.