Top 10 hospitals in South Korea(2025)
Top 10 hospitals in South Korea(2025)
South Korea is internationally recognized not only for its technology and pop culture but also for its exceptional healthcare system.
Every year, thousands of patients from around the world travel to South Korea to seek high-quality medical treatment, advanced procedures, and affordable healthcare. The country boasts a network of top-tier hospitals, many of which are affiliated with prestigious medical schools and backed by extensive research and technological innovation. In particular, the top 10 hospitals in South Korea represent the pinnacle of medical excellence, offering specialized care in areas such as oncology, cardiology, organ transplantation, and precision medicine.
These hospitals are equipped with cutting-edge facilities, world-class physicians, and globally recognized patient care standards.
Whether it’s for complex surgeries, chronic disease management, or wellness checkups, these institutions provide a wide range of services tailored to both domestic and international patients.
Many of them also feature international healthcare centers designed to support medical tourists with language assistance, concierge services, and culturally sensitive care.
From Seoul’s bustling medical hubs to regional centers in cities like Daegu and Busan, these hospitals play a crucial role in setting global standards for treatment and patient satisfaction.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 hospitals in South Korea, highlighting their unique characteristics, specialties, and what sets them apart in the competitive world of healthcare.
1. Asan Medical Center (AMC) – Seoul
Asan Medical Center, affiliated with the University of Ulsan College of Medicine, is the largest hospital in South Korea, boasting over 2,400 beds and more than 10,000 medical staff. It was founded in 1989 and has since become a global leader in healthcare, research, and education.
AMC is especially known for its high success rates in complex surgeries such as liver, kidney, and heart transplants.
Its organ transplant program is among the most advanced in Asia, handling the largest number of liver transplants in the country annually.
The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art medical devices and adopts a digital healthcare system that enhances patient safety and service efficiency.
It features over 50 specialty centers, including the Asan Heart Institute and Cancer Institute. AMC also has a strong international outreach through its “Asan in Asia” initiative, providing training and medical support to developing countries.
Its continuous investment in medical research and education makes it a pioneer in various clinical fields and innovation.
2. Samsung Medical Center (SMC) – Seoul
Samsung Medical Center, located in the Gangnam district of Seoul, was founded in 1994 and has become one of South Korea’s most prestigious hospitals.
Affiliated with the Samsung Group, SMC is a leader in advanced medicine and digital healthcare systems.
It houses over 1,900 beds and includes a General Hospital, Cancer Hospital, and multiple specialized research institutes.
The hospital is renowned for its excellence in oncology, ranking among the world’s best cancer treatment centers. It is also highly regarded for its urology, cardiovascular, and neuroscience departments.
SMC has introduced the use of AI and big data in clinical practices, including its self-developed “Dr. Answer” AI diagnostic system.
The Samsung Genome Institute plays a key role in precision medicine, enabling personalized treatment through genomic analysis.
With a vision of “A Hospital That Puts Patients First,” the center emphasizes patient-centric services, seamless care coordination, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
3. Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH) – Seoul
Seoul National University Hospital is a flagship institution representing South Korea’s public medical system. Established in 1885 and affiliated with Seoul National University College of Medicine, it combines over 130 years of tradition with cutting-edge innovation.
The hospital has approximately 1,800 beds and provides services across 40 clinical departments. SNUH is known for conducting South Korea’s first successful liver transplant and for being at the forefront of artificial organ research, including the development of the world’s smallest artificial heart.
It places a strong emphasis on academic research, publishing over 1,600 SCI-indexed papers annually.
The hospital is home to specialized centers like the SNU Cancer Hospital and the Children’s Hospital, offering multidisciplinary care.
It is also dedicated to public health through volunteer medical missions and partnerships with developing nations.
Its integrated healthcare information system is among the most advanced in Asia, allowing for secure and efficient patient care.
4. Severance Hospital – Seoul
Yonsei Severance Hospital is one of South Korea’s oldest and most prestigious medical institutions, established in 1885 as the first Western-style hospital in Korea.
Located in Seoul and affiliated with Yonsei University College of Medicine, it has played a pioneering role in modern Korean medicine for over a century. Severance Hospital is known not only for its rich history but also for its continued leadership in advanced medical research, education, and clinical excellence.
The hospital complex includes several specialized facilities such as the Cancer Hospital, Cardiovascular Hospital, Rehabilitation Hospital, and Dental Hospital, all integrated within the Yonsei University Health System. Severance is internationally renowned for its expertise in cancer treatment, organ transplantation, cardiovascular surgery, neurology, and minimally invasive procedures. Its multidisciplinary approach allows for highly personalized treatment plans, especially in complex and critical cases.
Severance Hospital places strong emphasis on cutting-edge medical technologies and patient-centered care. It incorporates smart hospital systems, AI-assisted diagnostics, robotic surgeries, and big data analytics to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
The hospital also operates a well-established International Healthcare Center, providing tailored services to foreign patients with multilingual support and concierge-level care.
As a leading teaching hospital, Severance fosters the next generation of medical professionals and actively contributes to global medical advancements through research and international collaboration. With its long-standing legacy, advanced infrastructure, and world-class expertise, Yonsei Severance Hospital continues to rank among the top hospitals not only in Korea but across Asia.
5. Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH) – Seongnam
Located in Seongnam, SNUBH is one of Korea’s most advanced digital hospitals. Affiliated with Seoul National University, it became the first hospital outside the U.S. to receive the HIMSS Stage 7 certification, marking it as a global leader in electronic medical record (EMR) systems. It offers top-tier services across more than 30 medical departments, including oncology, cardiology, neurology, and surgery.
SNUBH is known for its patient-centric model, integrated digital infrastructure, and innovative healthcare research. The hospital operates a major Healthcare Innovation Park that facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration in biomedical science and IT.
With its paperless systems, real-time clinical data sharing, and AI-powered diagnostics, SNUBH is setting new standards in smart, future-ready hospitals.
6. Gangnam Severance Hospital – Seoul
Gangnam Severance Hospital, part of the Yonsei University Health System, is a premium healthcare institution located in Seoul’s affluent Gangnam district.
It provides specialized care in cancer, cardiology, spine, and orthopedic surgery, and is equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic and surgical tools. Known for its expertise in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, the hospital draws patients from Korea and abroad.
Gangnam Severance also operates a well-equipped International Health Care Center, offering English, Chinese, and Russian services for foreign patients.
It emphasizes both clinical excellence and comfort, blending advanced technology with personalized patient care.
The hospital’s luxurious environment and high success rates in complex procedures have contributed to its reputation as a top-tier medical center.
7. The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital – Seoul
Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital is the flagship hospital of the Catholic University of Korea and one of the largest medical institutions in the country.
It is especially acclaimed for its hematology, oncology, and organ transplantation programs.
The hospital performs the highest number of hematopoietic stem cell transplants in Korea and has earned Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation.
It integrates strong ethical values with advanced medical research and patient care.
With its state-of-the-art Cancer Center, Cardiovascular Hospital, and Eye Hospital, it provides comprehensive and multidisciplinary treatments.
Seoul St. Mary’s also runs several outreach programs and focuses heavily on personalized care, faith-based healing principles, and academic research, making it both a spiritual and medical beacon in Korean healthcare.
8. Ajou University Hospital – Suwon
Located in Suwon, Ajou University Hospital is a well-respected tertiary care center known for its excellence in trauma care, cancer treatment, and academic medicine. It operates one of Korea’s largest Regional Trauma Centers, equipped with a heliport and 24-hour emergency services for critical cases. The hospital is also a key research hub with strong emphasis on translational medicine and clinical trials. Its Cancer Center uses advanced diagnostic imaging and targeted therapies. Ajou is committed to personalized medicine, combining genomics with traditional diagnostics for improved outcomes. As a teaching hospital, it trains a large number of medical students and residents each year. The facility also houses an International Medical Center offering multilingual services, attracting foreign patients for high-quality, affordable care.
9. Inha University Hospital
Situated in Incheon and affiliated with Inha University, this hospital is a core part of the Incheon healthcare system.
Since opening in 1996, Inha University Hospital has grown into a highly capable general hospital offering services in more than 30 medical fields, including cardiology, pulmonology, oncology, and endocrinology.
It is known for its patient-centered care and strong commitment to medical education and research.
The hospital operates advanced diagnostic labs, minimally invasive surgery units, and a well-equipped cancer treatment center.
With a strategic location near Incheon International Airport, it serves many international patients and has a dedicated International Medical Center. Inha’s focus on innovation and ethical medicine has earned it a solid reputation both regionally and nationally.
10. Kangbuk Samsung Hospital
Kangbuk Samsung Hospital in Seoul is part of the Samsung Medical Foundation and is widely known for its top-tier health screening and preventive medicine services.
Founded in 1968, it has evolved into a modern hospital specializing in internal medicine, endocrinology, neurology, and psychiatry.
Its flagship Health Screening Center conducts over 100,000 checkups annually, helping detect diseases at early stages.
The hospital utilizes AI-enhanced diagnostics and offers personalized wellness programs based on lifestyle and genetic factors.
Kangbuk Samsung is also a leader in occupational health and mental wellness, serving many corporate clients.
The hospital’s clean, efficient system and focus on early detection make it a preferred choice for health-conscious patients in Korea and abroad.
In conclusion, South Korea’s top 10 hospitals not only reflect the country’s remarkable medical advancements but also its deep commitment to patient-centered care and global healthcare leadership.
These institutions serve as shining examples of how innovation, research, and compassion can come together to deliver world-class treatment. Whether you’re a local resident seeking specialized care or an international patient considering medical travel, these hospitals offer a trustworthy and highly capable environment for healing.
With continued investment in medical technology, AI, and cross-border collaboration, South Korea is poised to remain at the forefront of the global healthcare industry.
Choosing the right hospital is a crucial step in any medical journey, and understanding what each of these leading institutions offers can make all the difference.
From cutting-edge cancer treatments to life-saving transplants, South Korea’s best hospitals are well-equipped to meet the needs of today’s most complex health challenges.
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