International patients · Japan

Varicose Vein Treatment in Korea for Patients from Japan

Quick answer: Busan is one of the closest Korean cities to Japan, so patients from Japan can reach LEDAS quickly by air or ferry for varicose vein treatment. LEDAS diagnoses with detailed duplex ultrasound and treats with EVLT laser and sclerotherapy under local anesthesia, without incisions. Most patients are discharged the same day.

LEDAS outpatient centre in Busan welcoming varicose vein patients from Japan

Key facts at a glance

  • Proximity: Busan is a short flight from major Japanese cities, and ferries also link the city with Japan.
  • Website: LEDAS publishes information in Japanese as well as English.
  • Diagnosis: standing duplex ultrasound, about 15–20 minutes, explained on screen.
  • Treatment: EVLT 1940nm laser, DGS/UGFS and SCT; local anesthesia only.
  • Stay: same-day admission and discharge.
  • Follow-up: ultrasound every 1–2 years or on each visit to Korea.

Why do some patients from Japan choose Busan for vein treatment?

Geography is the first reason. Busan sits on Korea's south-east coast facing Japan, so the trip can be shorter than travelling across Japan itself. Patients from Fukuoka, Osaka or Tokyo can often arrive the day before treatment, rest, and return home within a few days.

The second reason is focus. LEDAS treats only vein disease. Its doctor, Dr. Kim Byoung Joon, is a thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon who has specialised in varicose veins for over 22 years, and the clinic has performed more than 20,000 varicose vein procedures. Many patients who already know Korea from travel or work find it a natural option.

What are varicose veins, and do I need treatment?

Varicose veins form when the valves inside leg veins fail. Blood flows backwards, pools in the lower leg and stretches the veins. You may see bulging or spider veins, or you may only feel heaviness, evening swelling, night cramps or itching around the ankles. Many symptoms are invisible from the outside.

Not everyone needs a procedure. A good first step is the self-check checklist , followed by a duplex ultrasound exam , which shows exactly which veins leak.

How do I get from Japan to LEDAS?

By air

Busan's Gimhae International Airport has regular connections with several Japanese cities. Flight times are short, often around one to two hours depending on the departure city.

By sea

Passenger ferries link Busan with parts of Japan, including the Fukuoka area. Check current operators and timetables.

Entry rules

Japanese citizens have generally been able to make short visits to Korea without a visa, but requirements, including any electronic travel authorisation, can change. Confirm the current rules with the Embassy or Consulate of the Republic of Korea before you travel.

From the airport or port

LEDAS is in Seomyeon, central Busan, about 50 m from Seomyeon Station Exit 9. Coordinators can arrange pick-up and help with hotel bookings .

What language support is available?

The coordinator team interprets medically in English, Russian and Chinese. Japanese interpreting can be requested in advance through the coordinator or the Busan Foundation for International Cooperation. Medical statements are issued in Korean or English. See interpreter services .

What happens on treatment day?

After the pre-operative ultrasound, the doctor closes the main leaking vein with EVLT , using a thin laser fibre under local anesthesia. Sclerotherapy treats smaller branch and surface veins. You walk afterwards, learn to wear compression stockings, and go back to your hotel the same day. A pulling sensation along the treated vein for 1–2 weeks is common.

How does follow-up work from Japan?

Because the journey is short, many Japanese patients return for their follow-up ultrasound in person. LEDAS recommends a check every 1–2 years through its relapse prevention program . Between visits, your coordinator stays in contact.

Seek emergency care for sudden breathlessness, chest pain, or a painful, swollen, warm leg.

Getting from Japan to LEDAS at a glance

Option Arrives at To the clinic
Flight Gimhae International Airport Pick-up, or train/subway to Seomyeon Station
Ferry Busan Port International Passenger Terminal Taxi or subway to Seomyeon Station
Via Seoul Incheon, then KTX to Busan Station Subway Line 1 to Seomyeon, Exit 9
Clinic address 12F, 10 Seomyeonmunhwa-ro, Busanjin-gu About 50 m from Exit 9

Patients from Japan – frequently asked questions

  • Can I arrive in Busan the morning of my treatment?

    It is possible because flights are short, but arriving the day before is more relaxed and lets you rest your legs. Delays happen, and the ultrasound and treatment day needs your full attention. Your coordinator can suggest a timetable that fits your flights.

  • Is Japanese interpreting available?

    It can usually be arranged if you ask early. The core coordinators interpret in English, Russian and Chinese, and Japanese can be requested through the coordinator or the Busan Foundation for International Cooperation. LEDAS also has Japanese-language website information.

  • Can I take the ferry home after treatment?

    Often yes, once the doctor confirms you are ready. Walk around during the crossing, wear your compression stockings and drink water. Avoid sitting still for long periods. Read aftercare instructions before you travel.

  • Will Japanese health insurance cover treatment in Korea?

    Coverage for treatment abroad depends on your insurance scheme and its conditions. Check before you travel and ask which documents are required. LEDAS can issue a treatment certificate in Korean or English. See insurance claims and medical documents.

About this page

Clinical information: LEDAS Varicose Vein Clinic, led by Dr. Kim Byoung Joon , thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon, founding member of the Korean Society for Phlebology.
Medical reviewer: Dr. Kim Byoung Joon · Review status: Pending · Last updated: October 2026
This page is general information and not a diagnosis. Treatment is decided only after an in-person examination. Read our editorial policy .

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English consultation available · +82-70-4895-5086 · kbjledaspm@gmail.com