International patients

Orthodontic Treatment in Seoul for International Patients

Isu Yonsei Baro Orthodontics treats expats, international residents and visitors in English with one specialist — Dr. Sally Chaekyung Lee — from consultation to retention. We plan around how long you'll be in Korea, issue English documents for insurance claims, and prepare complete records if you relocate mid-treatment.

Reviewed by Dr. Sally Chaekyung Lee, DDS, PhD · Updated October 2026

Private consultation room at Isu Yonsei Baro Orthodontics, Seoul

What's different about treatment here

Orthodontics usually takes many months of regular visits. For people whose time in Korea has an end date — or an unknown one — the plan needs to account for that from day one.

Everything in English, from the orthodontist

Your diagnosis, options, risks, timeline and estimate are explained by Dr. Lee herself — not relayed through staff or an interpreter. Messages work in English by WhatsApp or email.

A plan built around your timeline

Tell us your expected stay at the first visit. Depending on your case, Dr. Lee may suggest the appliance, scope or sequence that fits it best — or explain honestly if a full treatment isn't realistic in the time you have. Short-stay planning

Records ready if you move

If you relocate before finishing, we prepare your complete records in English so an orthodontist in your next country can pick up where we left off. How it works

Insurance paperwork in English

English receipts, itemized statements, medical certificates and doctor's letters on request, for overseas or private insurers. Check with your insurer which documents they need. Documents we provide

Your first visit, step by step

  1. Message us by WhatsApp, email or KakaoTalk with your concern, preferred dates and how long you expect to stay. Attach any previous records.
  2. Examination (about 60 minutes) — digital intraoral scans, X-rays or 3D CT and photos, then Dr. Lee examines your teeth, bite and jaw.
  3. Your plan in English — findings, options, expected timeline and a written estimate before you decide anything.
  4. Treatment — visits scheduled around work, school and travel. Evening appointments until 9 PM on Mondays and Thursdays, and Saturday mornings.

International patient questions

  • Can I start braces or Invisalign if I'm only in Korea for a year?

    Often, yes — but it depends on your case. Some problems can be corrected within a year; comprehensive cases commonly take longer. Dr. Lee will tell you honestly at the first visit what's realistic and plan for a handover if you leave before finishing. More on finishing abroad.

  • I started treatment in another country. Can you continue it?

    Usually it's possible. Bring or send your previous records, appliance details and treatment plan if you have them. Dr. Lee will examine you and explain whether to continue the existing plan or adjust it. Continuing treatment started abroad.

  • Do I need Korean National Health Insurance to be treated?

    No. You can be treated whether or not you're enrolled. Orthodontic treatment is generally not covered by Korean National Health Insurance except in limited cases, so most patients pay privately and may claim on private or overseas insurance. Insurance details.

  • How do I pay?

    Payment terms are explained with your written estimate. Ask us in advance about payment methods for your situation, and we'll issue English receipts for every payment. Paying for dental care in Korea.

  • How do I book if I don't speak Korean?

    Message us on WhatsApp or email in English, or use the booking options on our booking page. Our phone line is +82 2-592-2080.

Tell us how long you'll be in Seoul

Send your concern, preferred dates and expected stay. Dr. Lee will plan around it.