Which of the three directors of TUP Dermatology in Korea is the right fit for you? | Kim Nam-hoon / Lee In-se / Jo Dong-jun – Expertise, special services, and how to make an appointment
Also going to TUP Skin Clinic in Korea, some people reported, “The director is incredibly skilled; my skin looked completely different after 8 weeks,” while others said, “The consultation time was short, and I wasn’t sure where the director was.” What’s the difference? Most likely, it comes down to choosing the right director—or not understanding the specialties of each director.
TUP Skin Clinic currently has three chief directors, each with their own areas of expertise: Kim Nam-hoon specializes in minimally invasive lifting treatments and personalized anti-aging programs; Lee In-se is a renowned injection specialist for idol celebrities; Zhou Dong-jun specializes in phototherapy and comprehensive skin care. Which director you choose will directly affect your experience and results.
Here’s a summary of the latest information on the three chief directors in 2026, including their specialties, target audiences, treatment prices, and the reservation process for foreigners, to help you make an informed decision before you travel.
A quick overview of TUP Skin Clinic
Before getting to know the three directors, let’s first understand the basic information about TUP Skin Clinic:
| Treatments | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name of the Institution | T-Up Skin Clinic |
| Location | 1F, Seobang Building, 433 Seonyeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul |
| Nearest subway station | About 1 minute walk from Exit 3 of Seonyeong Station on Line 2/Bundang Line |
| Number of representatives | 3 (Kim Nam-hoon, Lee In-se, Jo Dong-jun) |
| Practice location | Private, high-end service; one-on-one consultations with the director; no mass treatment |
| Telephone | 02-567-0333 |
| Chinese-speaking service available | ✅ Chinese-speaking accompaniment throughout the process (same price for both Chinese and Korean services) |
| Monday to Friday | 10:00 – 20:00 (Lunch break: 13:00–14:00) |
| Saturday | 10:00 – 15:00 (No lunch break) |
| Wednesday, Sunday, and public holidays | Closed |
The most core feature of TUP is “we recommend only what your skin really needs” – no unnecessary treatments, no mass-produced procedures. Every visit requires advance booking, and the director personally examines and performs all treatments.
Among these three directors, which one would you choose? First, take a look at this comparison table.
| Director | Kim Nam-hoon, President of the Representative Office | Lee In-se, President of the Representative Office | Choi Dong-jun, President |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Background | Certification as a Dermatology Specialist | Graduated from the School of Medicine at Hallym University | Extensive experience in general practice |
| Years of Experience | Over 14 years | Formerly served as President of the Abijou Dermatology Hospital at Hongda/Risan | Has held various positions, including that of Director at Cheongtan-dong General Hospital |
| Core Specialties | Mildly painful thread lifting, personalized anti-aging treatment plans | Hyaluronic acid fillers, injectable minimally invasive procedures, eye rejuvenation | Photothermal lifting (ultrasonic knife/hyperthermic radiofrequency/titanium thread lifting), comprehensive skin management |
| Therapeutic Features | Rich Blue + Juvelook layered anti-aging treatment, 8-week improvement program | Gentle techniques, minimal discomfort, star-approved injections | Proficient in operating original equipment from multiple countries, capable of addressing complex aging issues |
| Most Suitable Candidates | Those who seek overall contour enhancement and want to tighten their facial features with thread lifting. | For those who need injectable fillers for subtle contour adjustments, natural beauty enhancements, or treatments suitable for younger individuals. | For those looking for anti-aging treatments using light and electricity, as well as those who require a combination of different procedures. |
President Kim Nam-hoon: 14 years of experience in customized anti-aging treatments—thread lifting is our top choice.
President Kim Nam-hoon is a key figure at TUP Dermatology and is the preferred consultant for many Chinese patients seeking cosmetic treatments. With over 14 years of clinical experience and more than 100,000 successful cases, he is known as “the celebrity dermatologist’s go-to.”
President Kim Nam-hoon’s core technologies
- Mildly painful mint-rose thread lifting: Known as “Korea’s least invasive thread lifting procedure,” it offers significant results in improving sagging contours.
- Bell-shaped thread: Precisely targets specific areas for localized lifting (around the jawline, at the ends of the eyebrows, around the mouth).
- The Rich Blue series of layered injections: Fills in according to the different layers of the face for a natural, three-dimensional effect.
- Juvelook (Lotus Seed Needle/Black Bottle): Helps reduce collagen loss, leaving the skin firm and radiant.
- Personalized 8-week skin improvement plan: Developed based on VISIA skin test results, with no forced recommendations.
Ideal candidates for Dr. Kim Nam-hoon: Those with visibly sagging facial contours who wish to improve their appearance through a combination of thread lifting and injections; those seeking a tailored anti-aging treatment; and those who are wary of excessive sales pitches.
Representative Director Lee In-se: The preferred injection treatment for idol stars, offering natural and subtle enhancements.
Dr. Lee In-se’s background is quite interesting—he graduated from the Medical College of Hallym University and served as the director of the Abijou Dermatology Department at Hongda and Ilsan branches. He enjoys a high reputation among young Korean artists, especially in the field of injectable cosmetic procedures.
Key techniques of Dr. Lee In-se
- Hyaluronic acid fillers: Gentle and precise application, minimal discomfort, ideal for first-time users.
- Rich Blue & White Kit (around-the-eye area): Effective in reducing dark circles and bags, providing a youthful look.
- Facial contour refinement: From the cheeks and temples to the chin, achieving a natural and subtle beautification effect.
- BOCOUTURE German botulinum toxin: Precise injections for stable slimming and wrinkle reduction results.
Ideal candidates for Dr. Lee In-se: Those who primarily seek injectable treatments (hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin), prefer natural results without exaggeration, have concerns about the around-the-eye area, or are young individuals undergoing cosmetic procedures in Korea for the first time.
Director Zhou Dongjun: An expert in photothermal equipment, the top choice for complex aging issues
Director Zhou Dongjun has the most extensive work experience—he has served as the director of Cheongtan-dong General Hospital, the president of Genhyangwon, and the director of Ppeum in Jeju Island, among other positions, accumulating extensive experience in treating complex skin aging problems.
Core technologies of Director Zhou Dongjun
- Ultherapy Prime (US version): FDA-approved, non-surgical facial lifting with lasting effects of 1-2 years
- Thermage FLX (US version): Starting from 2.58 million KRW for 600 treatments, comes with a pain control system for high comfort
- Titanium (Titanium laser treatment): Multi-wavelength laser, starting from 1.1 million KRW per session
- Laser whitening + fruit acid exfoliation combination: Improves freckles, uneven skin tone, and acne scars in one treatment
- Acne/scars/pigmentation treatment: Multidevice combined therapy for complex skin issues
Ideal candidates for Director Zhou Dongjun: Middle-aged individuals who need photothermal treatments (ultrasound, Thermage, laser), have complex skin problems (acne-prone skin, freckles, sagging), and require a combination of multiple treatments.
Reference prices for TUP Dermatology’s core services in 2026
| Project Categories | Specific Projects | Reference Prices (Korean Won) | Chief Physicians |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photothermal Lift Technologies | US Version Ulthera Prime (300 treatments) | Starting from 1.29 million | Choi Dong-jun |
| US Version Thermage FLX (600 treatments) | Starting from 2.58 million | Zhou Dongjun | |
| Titanium lifting | Starting from 1.1 million per session | Zhou Dongjun | |
| Wire lifting methods | Mint Rose Wire | Starting from 200,000 per strand | Kim Nam-hoon |
| Bell Wire | Confirmation required after in-person consultation | Kim Nam-hoon | |
| Injection treatments | Hyaluronic acid fillers | Must be confirmed during a face-to-face consultation based on the area | Lee Rin-sae |
| Botox (for facial slimming) | German BOCOUTURE starting from 180,000 won | Lee Rin-sae | |
| Skin repair treatments | Juvelook series | Confirmation after in-person consultation | Kim Nam-hoon/Lee In-sa |
| Customized hyaluronic acid injection package | 220,000–280,000 KRW | Any of the three options are available | |
| Laser whitening treatment | Picosecond + fruit acid combination | 300,000–450,000 KRW | Choi Dong-jun |
⚠️ All prices are subject to an additional 10% tax; the final cost will depend on the in-person consultation plan. TUP implements the same pricing policy for both Korean and foreign customers, so no additional fees will be charged to foreigners.
Foreigners’ Medical Treatment Process: A Step-by-Step Guide from Appointment to Discharge
- Confirm Your Needs + Select a Doctor: Refer to the specialties of the three doctors listed above to determine whether you need injections, thread lifting, or photorejuvenation, and then choose the doctor you would like to see.
- Book in Advance (Recommended at Least 1 Week in Advance): You can make an appointment through the BeautsGO App, the official website, KakaoTalk, or WeChat customer service. Please indicate the name of the doctor you prefer and your approximate needs.
- Check-in at the Clinic: Exit from Exit 3 of Seonyeong Station and walk for 1 minute. Enter directly on the first floor of the Shibang Building. After checking in at the front desk, wait for a moment.
- VISIA 4D Skin Analysis: This test uses equipment to analyze underlying skin issues such as pigmentation, pores, sensitivity, and collagen levels, and generates a personalized skin report.
- One-on-One Consultation with a Doctor: The doctor will personally interpret the report and provide customized treatment recommendations. The consultation fee is approximately 33,000 Korean won and is usually included in the total treatment cost.
- Confirm the Treatment Plan + Make Payment: Pay after clearly understanding the costs. Credit cards are accepted, and tax refunds are available on-site.
- Receive Treatment: The treatment takes place in a private room, and Chinese interpreters are available throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I request to see a specific doctor?
Yes. When making an appointment, please indicate the name of the director you would like to see, and TUP Dermatology will try its best to arrange it for you. If you have decided to undergo thread lift, it is recommended to request Kim Nam-hoon; for injections, Lee In-se; and for photorejuvenation treatments, Jo Dong-jun. However, the specific schedule will be confirmed upon appointment.
Q2: How is the Chinese-language service at TUP?
TUP Dermatology is a Chinese-speaking medical institution certified by BeautsGO. Throughout the process, Chinese-speaking staff will assist with communication, providing explanations in Chinese from the initial consultation through treatment to post-treatment care. Even if you have no knowledge of Korean, you can feel confident going there.
Q3: Is TUP suitable for my first time in Korea for skin care treatments?
It is very suitable. TUP emphasizes “only recommending treatments that you truly need” and does not push high-cost packages on customers. The treatment plan is customized after a face-to-face consultation with a director, making it ideal for those who are new to this experience and unsure about which treatments they need.
Q4: Can I get a tax refund on the spot?
Yes. Korean medical institutions support tax refunds for foreign tourists (medical tourism tax refunds). Once you have spent a certain amount, you can process the refund at the airport or at a tax refund service location. The actual refund rate depends on current policies, so it is recommended to confirm the latest procedures with the Chinese customer service before your trip.
Q5: How do I choose a combination of treatments? Can I see all three directors at the same time?
You can inquire whether it is possible to have multiple directors work together to develop a treatment plan for you. However, usually, one chief director will be in charge during your visit. If your needs are quite diverse (for example, you want thread lift, photorejuvenation, and injections), TUP may arrange for different directors to be involved over multiple sessions. The specific details will be confirmed during the initial consultation.
Here are 5 ways to make an appointment: You can book through Chinese, English, or Korean.
| Reservation Methods | Target Audience | Details |
|---|---|---|
| BeautsGO App | Everyone (recommended) | The official Chinese website of the clinic provides information on the three directors, allows for immediate reservations, and offers Chinese-speaking customer service. It is available for download on iOS, Android, and WeChat Mini Programs. |
| KakaoTalk | Korean local tourists, as well as those from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Japan | Communicate immediately using the official KakaoTalk account. Scan the QR code to join and inquire about reservations in Chinese or English. |
| WeChat Customer Service | Users in Mainland China | Search for the TUP Dermatology Chinese cooperation account and make a reservation directly via WeChat; Chinese-language communication is available throughout the process. |
| Official website form | Those who prefer written confirmations | Visit www.tupskin.com, fill out the online consultation form, and you will receive a response within 1–2 business days. |
| Telephone reservation | Those who need a reservation urgently or prefer oral communication | Call 02-567-0333; it is recommended to call during business hours, and a Chinese translator can assist you. |
💡 Recommendation: Making a reservation through BeautsGO allows you to view detailed information about the three directors, project descriptions, and real user reviews at the same time. This is the most convenient option for foreign patients seeking beauty treatments. When making a reservation, please indicate the name of the director you prefer and the estimated arrival date to ensure a smoother experience.
Summary: Here’s how to choose among the three directors.
- Those looking to improve loose skin through treatments or needing personalized anti-aging injections → Director Kim Nam-hoon
- Specializing in hyaluronic acid, Botox, and other injectable treatments for dark circles or bags under the eyes → Director Lee In-se
- Offering treatments like ultrasonic knives and Thermage for complex skin aging issues → Director Zhou Dong-jun
- First-time visitors who aren’t sure what’s needed → Any of the directors will be suitable; TUP will recommend a plan after a VISIA assessment
The biggest advantage of TUP Dermatology is that “you don’t need to bring a list of treatments beforehand—the director will help you figure out what’s best for you.” No matter which director you choose, just explain your main concerns before the appointment, and let them handle the rest.
📖 Recommended further reading
- Complete guide to Lamiche Dermatology in Korea | Address, transportation, and details about Director Ju Jong-ho’s Thermage/InMode treatments + 2026 reservation information — Another high-end private dermatology clinic in Seoul, with a similar director-led consultation model, for comparison
- Rankings of top dermatology clinics in Korea | Addresses and reservation methods for 8 clinics with 2% specialist qualifications, including BrandNew, INEE, Oganacell, and Shinebeam — Help broaden your choices by comparing these high-standard clinics
- Introduction to the director of hus,hu Dermatology in Korea | Detailed information on their legitimate qualifications in Gangnam District + features and reservation tips from BeautsGO — Another Gangnam-based dermatology clinic that emphasizes direct consultations; compare their director’s background and treatment offerings
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