A revolutionary convergence of beauty, healthcare and digital medical solutions is today propelling Korean innovation to the global stage, and in turn, reshaping the global medical aesthetics market.
In the heart of Korea, where technology meets tradition, a groundbreaking synergy is taking place in the realms of beauty and healthcare. The country renowned for its K-beauty revolution is now spearheading a transformative movement in the medical sector, giving birth to what experts are calling the ‘K-medical’ market.
This convergence of innovative technologies from the Korean cosmetics and medical devices industries is positioning Korea as one of the most dynamic and innovative markets globally, redefining the landscape of medical aesthetics as we know it.
With a rapidly aging population and a culture that places a premium on beauty and wellness, Korea has naturally become a hotbed for advancements in medical aesthetics. According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Koreans have the highest rate of plastic surgery per capita, underscoring the nation’s deep-seated fascination with enhancing one’s appearance. This cultural inclination, combined with an aging demographic, has fueled the rapid growth of the Korean medical aesthetics industry, which has been expanding at an impressive rate of over 15% annually.
As Korean firms seek to expand beyond the domestic market, they are encountering challenges, primarily stemming from the reputation of established international brands. However, what sets Korean medical device makers apart is their focus on innovation, cost-efficiency, and implementation of digital technologies.
Gi Bong Sim, CEO of DENTIST – the dental implant specialist – emphasizes the importance of shortening processes and offering same-day treatment to enhance patient experiences. He notes the critical role of digital dentistry in achieving this goal, highlighting advancements in intra-oral scanning, 3D printing, and materials development.
“Concerning same-day treatment, several crucial factors come into play, including intraoral scanner software, milling, 3D printers, and materials for printed prosthetics,” he says. “If a company succeeds in developing these materials for the digital industry, it will significantly enhance productivity while reducing costs for dentists. Success in materials development would undoubtedly be a game-changer in the market.”
Echoing this sentiment is Yongsu Kim, CEO of HASS Bio, which provides aesthetic dental solutions. Mr. Kim emphasizes Korea’s strengths in established technologies, highlighting the speed at which Korean manufacturers adapt to meet the needs of dentists and patients, positioning them as formidable competitors in the global market.
“In the last decade, Korean companies have expanded their global market share due to their strong compet
