Korea mulls medical tourism complex

17-Oct-2007

A new complex designed to cater specifically for tourists seeking treatment abroad is being considered by the Seoul Metropolitan Government in Korea.

The city is currently working on a feasibility study to determine how viable such a complex would be.

According to a report in the Korea Times, the medical tourism complex would provide medical treatment at a reasonable price - something that many UK residents see as something of a luxury on home soil.

An official told the publication that the feasibility study will be completed next April and that the complex would provide a range of services, including medical check-ups, Chinese medicine and cosmetic surgery.

"We have enough potential to draw foreign tourists who seek medical treatment as well,'' the official said.

"While Korea has world class medical know-how and technologies, prices for medical treatment are relatively cheaper than those in America and Japan."

The South Korean government recently promised to increase its expenditure on healthcare and pharmaceuticals and Frost & Sullivan analysts have noted the nation's major growth opportunities in the areas of healthcare services and medical tourism.