Melanoma in Seoul: Early Detection, Biopsy and Treatment Pathway in English
Melanoma is the most serious common skin cancer, but it is highly curable when caught early. A dermatologist examines suspicious moles with dermoscopy, performs a biopsy and guides you through treatment.
How is melanoma diagnosed and treated?
Melanoma is diagnosed by a skin biopsy of a suspicious mole and treated mainly by surgical removal with a safety margin (wide local excision); thicker melanomas may need further staging and treatment in a hospital. Early, thin melanomas have excellent cure rates with surgery alone.
Warning signs
When a mole could be melanoma
Use the ABCDE rule and look for change.
Asymmetry and border
Uneven shape with irregular or blurred edges.
Colour variation
Several shades of brown, black, red, white or blue.
Size and change
Growing beyond about 6 mm or changing over weeks to months.
Nail streak
A new dark line under a nail, common in Asian skin (acral melanoma).
Palms and soles
Acral melanoma often appears on hands and feet.
New mole in adulthood
Book a mole check for any new or changing mole.
How it works
From suspicion to treatment
Dermoscopy helps decide which lesions need biopsy. The pathologist measures melanoma thickness (Breslow depth), which guides the surgical margin and whether further tests are needed.
- Day 1: dermoscopy and biopsy
- About 1 week: pathology report explained in English
- Thin melanoma: wide local excision
- Thicker melanoma: referral for staging and oncology care
Pricing
How much does melanoma diagnosis cost in Korea?
Costs depend on lesion size and the procedure required.
| Service | Typical price range (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Dermatology consultation | ₩30,000 – ₩70,000 |
| Skin biopsy (punch or excision) | ₩80,000 – ₩200,000 |
| Histopathology report | ₩50,000 – ₩150,000 |
| Wide local excision (outpatient) | ₩300,000 – ₩800,000 |
Guide ranges only. Your plan and quote are confirmed after an in‑person assessment.
What to expect
Your melanoma pathway, step by step
-
Examination
Full‑skin check with dermoscopy.
-
Biopsy
The suspicious lesion is removed under local anaesthetic.
-
Results
Pathology explained, with a written English report.
-
Treatment
Excision, or referral to a university hospital when staging is needed.
Who should be checked?
- Anyone with a changing or new mole
- A dark streak in a nail
- Family history of melanoma
- Many or unusual moles
Do not wait if
- A mole bleeds, itches or ulcerates
- A spot grows quickly
- A dark nail streak widens
- A lump appears near a previous melanoma scar
Early detection is the most important factor in survival.
Compare
Melanoma vs. benign mole
Only a biopsy can confirm, but these features help.
| Benign mole | Melanoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Symmetrical | Asymmetrical |
| Border | Smooth, even | Irregular, blurred |
| Colour | One even shade | Multiple colours |
| Change | Stable | Evolving |
Your dermatologist
Dr. SangYoul Yun
Chief Director · Korean Board‑Certified Dermatologist · AAD International Fellow (IFAAD)
Dr. Yun biopsies suspicious lesions promptly and explains results clearly, coordinating referral to hospital oncology teams when advanced care is needed. Consultations are available in English.
Delight Dermatology Clinic · Registered foreign‑patient medical institution (KHIDI M‑2024‑01‑08‑8248) · 4F, Building B, 509 Gangnam‑daero, Seocho‑gu, Seoul · +82 2‑517‑9991 · About our clinic
FAQ
Melanoma Treatment: frequently asked questions
Is melanoma curable?
Thin, early melanoma is usually cured with surgery.
Can I get a biopsy during a trip to Seoul?
Yes, and results can be emailed with an English report.
Is melanoma common in Asian skin?
Less common, but often appears on palms, soles and nails.
Does a biopsy leave a scar?
A small scar; techniques minimise it.
What if melanoma is confirmed?
You will receive a clear plan and, if needed, a hospital referral.
How can I prevent melanoma?
Sun protection and regular skin checks; see skin cancer screening.
Book a suspicious mole check in Gangnam
Send a clear photo of the lesion and we will prioritise your appointment.