A surge in medical tourism in South Korea has led to a boost in business for hotels across the city of Seoul.
Authorities there are now planning to designate properties according to their level of suitability for those recovering from medical procedures. New “Seoul Medical-Friendly Accommodation” accreditation will help those coming to the city for treatment, as well as their friends, family and carers. Many foreign arrivals will use the hotels to stay through their recovery period after operations, some for an extended stay.
Hotels Support Demand for Treatments
Medical tourism is a phenomenon prevalent across several regions of Asia. In South Korea, demand is booming, with 2.01 million foreign patients treated in 2025, according to official figures. That number was up 71.9% year on year. Of those totals, the vast majority were treated in the greater Seoul region. In one month alone in 2026, foreign medical spending added up to KRW213.1 billion.
Popular treatments that foreigners travel to South Korea for, include nose and eyelid surgery, skin treatments, and dental work. While the operation itself may be completed within a day, patients then need to recover, and it is often sensible to stay in a nearby hotel as they convalesce, so they can attend check-ups before returning home.
Hotels will need to apply for the new accreditation. Evaluation will be based around the availability of 24 hour support, wheelchair accessibility, the hotel’s proximity to key medical facilities, and whether extended stay guests will be able to do their laundry at the hotel.
City authorities will decide which hotels make the grade, and will re-evaluate properties on an annual basis. Those that do pass, will be actively promoted via the city’s medical tourism platform, which advertises Seoul’s capabilities in five different languages.
The city’s hotel market is thriving, and has a number of new additions coming to grow the room count. The newly converted Tapestry Collection by Hilton Eunpyeong-gu is about to open its 200 rooms for guests, while Rosewood Seoul and the 14 storey Hotel Jae dong should open in 2027.
Aman Plans South Korean Launch
Among luxury brands coming to the city is Aman. Its first hotel in the country, Aman Seoul will be developed in the Cheongdam district by Shinsegae Property. The project will include a hotel, branded residences and an Aman Club. The 150 room property is expected to open in 2030. At around the same time, Mandarin Oriental is planning to open its Seoul hotel. The 128 room luxury new build will feature a substantial ballroom, and outdoor terraces ideal for meetings and corporate events.
The local Paradise Group is also busy, with two hotel projects live in the city. Casino Hotel Seoul is a four star property, which will sit within a new 18 storey development. And alongside it will be the 189 room, five star Paradise Jangchung dong. Openings are planned for 2028.
