"We don't do medical visits": ever heard that at a Korean dermatology clinic?

On Clien, someone described a wasted trip to a neighborhood dermatology clinic. The map app showed a specialist, the waiting room was empty, yet the desk said it was appointment-only and this month's slots were closed. They ended up travelling much farther. The post drew nearly thirty replies.

What the replies said:

• Similar stories dominated. One person had tried five clinics with specialist signs, and most said they only do cosmetic procedures, not medical consultations.

• Many advised phoning ahead to ask whether the clinic treats skin conditions at all.

• Some pushed back: for many problems, a primary-care clinic such as family medicine or internal medicine is a fine first stop.

• Others noted that some cases, like stitching a facial cut, usually belong to other specialties anyway, so it isn't always the dermatologist's fault.

• A popular reply said clinics that won't treat patients should call themselves "beauty clinics" instead.

The mood was mostly frustrated, but it came with practical advice: pick the right kind of clinic for the symptom and check before you go.

Desk note: According to Hankook Ilbo (June 2026), the government is pushing a rule change that would stop non-specialist clinics from listing a specialty such as dermatology on their signboards. It is expected to apply only to newly opened or relocated clinics, so existing signs will stay. For now, a phone call is more reliable than a sign. If a rash spreads quickly or pain is severe, don't wait; go to the nearest medical facility.

What do you check first when choosing a dermatology clinic?

Original thread: Clien — Went to a nearby dermatology clinic, ended up going far · Also see: Hankook Ilbo

#dermatology #Koreaclinics #findingadoctor