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Last updated: 10/3/2025

Herniated disc surgery in Republic of Korea: Our Best Clinics and Costs 2025

Why choose the Republic of Korea for herniated disc surgery?

  • Accredited clinics: JCI-certified hospitals offer care that meets internationally recognized standards.
  • Latest technologies: Techniques such as minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) and endoscopic discectomy are employed. These, along with innovative devices like the O-arm Surgical Imaging System, ensure precision and reduced recovery time.
  • High success rates: Herniated disc surgeries in Korea have an efficacy rate of 90%. This rate applies to pain relief and functional improvement across various patient conditions.
  • Expert surgeons: Leading neurosurgeons and orthopedic specialists, many with international board certifications, have performed thousands of successful herniated disc surgeries. This ensures high levels of expertise and patient satisfaction.

Access advanced Herniated disc surgery solutions in trusted clinics .

85 %
patient recommendation
21 K+
patients
820К+ patients have got assistance since 2014
50 countries
1,500 clinics
6K+ reviews
3K+ qualified doctors

How Much Does Herniated disc surgery Cost in Republic of Korea?

The cost of herniated disc surgery in South Korea typically ranges from $4,400 to $5,100. Prices can vary depending on the hospital, the neurosurgeon’s experience, whether the procedure is open or minimally invasive (like microdiscectomy or endoscopic discectomy), and the complexity of the case. In the United States, the average cost is $42,500 (per AANS). This means herniated disc surgery in South Korea is about 89% less than in the U.S.

South Korean hospitals usually include pre-op imaging, surgeon and anesthesiologist fees, the operation itself, hospital stay (typically 2–4 days), medications, and basic follow-up care. In the U.S., the listed price often covers only the surgeon’s fee, with separate bills for anesthesia, hospital stay, and imaging. Always confirm what’s included in your package before booking.

Republic of KoreaTurkeyAustria
Herniated disc surgeryfrom  $4,425from  $6,492from  $20,000
The price research is based on updated and verified costs from the Bookimed partner clinics.

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Discover the Best Herniated disc surgery Clinics in Republic of Korea: 8 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.
Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH)

Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH)

Republic of Korea, Seoul
Clinic is certified :
  • Accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation Program, ensuring international standards for healthcare services.
  • Recognized among the World's Best Hospitals 2021 by Newsweek for outstanding healthcare delivery.
  • Listed in World's Best Smart Hospitals 2023 by Newsweek, highlighting its commitment to integrating technology in patient care.
  • Equipped with the BESTcare system, enhancing treatment safety and minimizing medical errors for herniated disc surgery.
  • Home to 10 specialized treatment centers and 33 departments, providing comprehensive care for a variety of medical needs including orthopedic conditions.
4.86 reviews
Price on request
Clinic's page
Ewha Womans University Medical Center

Ewha Womans University Medical Center

Republic of Korea, Seoul
Clinic is certified :
  • Holding a leading position, the institution has consecutively won the "Quality of Services" competition for three years, reflecting its commitment to patient satisfaction.
  • With a history of excellence, this medical center has been awarded the "Best Brand" title for nearly a decade from 2009 to 2017, signifying its reputable standing.
  • Recognized by the Ministry of Health and Welfare of South Korea, the center is renowned for its superior treatment of colon cancer, indicating its expertise in related surgical procedures.
  • Equipped with the latest Da Vinci robotic technology, the center offers precision in surgeries, which is crucial for delicate procedures such as Herniated disc surgery.
  • As a pioneer, the surgical team at the clinic was the first worldwide to conduct a robotic gynecological intervention through a single small incision, showcasing their innovative approach to minimally invasive surgery.
5.09 reviews
Price on request
Clinic's page
Asan Medical Center

Asan Medical Center

Republic of Korea, Seoul
Clinic is certified :
  • Ranked among the World's Best Hospitals by Newsweek, Asan Medical Center ensures high-quality care.
  • Herniated disc surgery options include minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and reduced pain.
  • Personal coordinators assist international patients with seamless diagnosis and treatment processes.
  • Patients benefit from a free airport transfer and comfortable accommodation options.
  • Located in Seoul, the center offers easy access to the Olympic Park and nearby amenities.
4.57 reviews
Price on request
Clinic's page
Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital

Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital

Republic of Korea, Seoul
Clinic is certified :
  • Ranked among the World's Best Hospitals 2021 by Newsweek, highlighting its excellence in herniated disc surgery.
  • Specialized spine center dedicated to treating spinal disorders, including herniated discs.
  • Utilizes advanced diagnostic tools like PET-CT and 3.0T MRI for accurate assessment of herniated discs.
  • International department treats over 15,000 patients from 100 countries annually, ensuring global trust and expertise.
  • Offers a streamlined "One-Stop" system for convenience and comprehensive care during herniated disc surgery.
3.5
Price on request
Clinic's page
Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH)

Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH)

Republic of Korea, Seoul
Clinic is certified :
  • Recognized by Newsweek as one of the World's Best Smart Hospitals in 2023, highlighting its technological advancements.
  • Neurosurgery Department conducts 3,800 neurosurgical procedures annually, evidencing substantial experience in spine pathologies.
  • Employs a multidisciplinary approach with 15 specialized departments, ensuring comprehensive care for herniated disc patients.
  • Offers a GammaKnife Center for minimally invasive procedures, providing alternatives to traditional surgery for certain disc conditions.
  • Caters to an average of 10,700 patients daily, demonstrating extensive patient management and surgical capacity.
3.9
Price on request
Clinic's page

Herniated disc surgery Overview in Republic of Korea

Takeaways
Related procedures & Costs
How it works
What to expect
Pros & Cons
Benefits
Payment
patients recommend -
85%
Surgery Time - 2 hours
Stay in the country - 7 days
Rehabilitation - 4 days
Anesthesia - General anesthesia
Requests processed - 21657
Bookimed fees - $0

Our Doctors

View all Doctors
verified

Won-Han Shin

Neurosurgeon, specializing in spinal neurosurgery

35 years old

  • In 1991, he was invited to the Department of Neurosurgery at Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Medical College, USA.
  • Member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.
  • Member of the Cervical Spine Research Society.
  • Member of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies.
verified

Hyeunsung Harrison Kim

31 years of experience

Dr. Hyeunsung Harrison Kim is a neurosurgeon who specializes in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery. He treats herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative spine diseases. Dr. Kim earned his PhD in 2006. He completed advanced training at Chosun University Hospital, 21 Century Spine Hospital, and Anna Hospital in Germany.

Dr. Kim has served as Director at Hurisarang Spine Hospital and Sun Han Hospital. He is also an adjunct professor at Chosun University Medical College. He has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and several textbooks. Dr. Kim is a reviewer for World Neurosurgery and has received several best paper awards, including the 2018 Paviz Kambin Award.

He is a member of NASS, ISASS, AO Spine, and other professional societies. Dr. Kim is known for his work in spinal surgery innovation and education.

verified

Jaehyeon Lim

37 years of experience

Dr. Jaehyeon Lim is a professor at Inje University Paik Hospital in Seoul. He specializes in microscopic spinal surgery, cervical spine diseases, artificial disc replacement, spinal tumors, mini spinal fusion, scoliosis, and non-surgical exercise therapy. He was the first in Korea to perform anterior cervical foraminotomy. He also developed mini and painless spinal fusion surgeries.

Dr. Lim received advanced training abroad in minimal-access spine surgery and exercise therapy. He has published more than 10 peer-reviewed articles. He has also presented his work at major international symposiums. Dr. Lim holds leadership positions in the Korean Spinal Neurosurgery Society and the Korean Hospital Association. His work has made a strong impact on spinal neurosurgery in Korea.

verified

Iltae Jang

42 years of experience

Dr. Iltae Jang is a leading neurosurgeon with expertise in microscopic spinal surgery, cervical spine diseases, artificial discs, spinal tumors, mini spinal fusion, scoliosis, and non-surgical treatments. He serves as a professor at Korea University, Ewha Womans University, and Yonsei University. Dr. Jang has published widely in respected journals, including World Neurosurgery, Spine Journal, and the Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society.

He holds an ECFMG certificate and completed fellowships in France. Dr. Jang has served as President of Nanoori Hospital and is the founder of the Nanoori Medical Foundation. He is active in several professional societies, such as the Barun Spine Society and the Korean Neurosurgical Society. Major Korean newspapers have recognized him as a top doctor in spine disorders. Dr. Jang’s work has helped advance spinal surgery in Korea and abroad.

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Updated: 07/12/2019
Authored by
Anna Leonova
Anna Leonova
Head of Content Marketing Team
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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Reviewed by Bookimed Medical Advisor
Fahad Mawlood
Medical Editor & Data Scientist
General practitioner. Winner of 4 scientific awards. Served in Western Asia. Former Team Leader of a medical team supporting Arabic-speaking patients. Now responsible for data processing and medical content accuracy.
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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.

Fast Facts about Herniated disc surgery

Herniated disc surgery

This procedure involves removing the part of the disc that is pressing on the nerve, alleviating pain and discomfort.

Pros: Minimally invasive approach reduces recovery time. Effective pain relief in 85-90% of patients. Often performed as an outpatient procedure.
Cons: Potential for nerve damage or infection. 5-10% chance of disc herniation recurring. Not suitable for all cases.
Effectiveness: 85% success rate in relieving leg pain and improving function.
Duration: 1-2 hours.
Recovery: 4-6 weeks.
Best for: Patients with severe leg pain caused by lumbar disc herniation. Ideal for those unresponsive to conservative treatment.
Prices: View costs of other techniques

FAQ about Herniated disc surgery 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.

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