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South Korea's Tax Refund Cuts Threaten Cosmetic Surgery Boom

12/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

South Korea's cosmetic surgery industry faces pressure as a decade-long tax refund program for foreign patients ends on December 31.
The program offered a 10% tax refund on various procedures, attracting medical tourists.
Industry officials warn the termination could raise costs and push patients toward Singapore and Thailand.
Experts caution that the loss could weaken competitiveness among price-sensitive Chinese consumers.

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Story summary

South Korea's cosmetic surgery industry faces pressure as a decade-long tax refund program for foreign patients ends on December 31.
The program offered a 10% tax refund on various procedures, attracting medical tourists.
Industry officials warn the termination could raise costs and push patients toward Singapore and Thailand.
Experts caution that the loss could weaken competitiveness among price-sensitive Chinese consumers.