Mole Checks in Korea – Seoul Dermatology Clinic for Foreigners
Moles are common skin growths, and while most are harmless, some can indicate early signs of skin cancer, such as melanoma. At our dermatology clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, we provide professional mole checks and skin cancer screenings for both local and international patients. With advanced diagnostic tools and board-certified dermatologists, we help ensure early detection and peace of mind.
What Do Abnormal Moles Look Like?
While many moles are benign, some changes may signal a need for medical evaluation. Dermatologists use the ABCDE rule to identify suspicious moles:
- A – Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other
- B – Border: Irregular, blurred, or jagged edges
- C – Color: Uneven shades of brown, black, red, or blue
- D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms (itching, bleeding)
You should also get a mole checked if it is new and appears after age 30, or if it looks noticeably different from your other moles (called the “ugly duckling” sign).
Common Types of Moles
- Congenital moles (present at birth)
- Acquired moles (appear over time)
- Dysplastic nevi (atypical moles that may resemble melanoma)
- Seborrheic keratoses (non-cancerous lesions often mistaken for moles)
- Melanoma (a serious form of skin cancer that can resemble a mole)
Regular mole checks help differentiate between harmless and potentially dangerous lesions—especially important in individuals with many moles, fair skin, or a personal/family history of skin cancer.
Mole Screening & Diagnosis at Our Seoul Clinic
We offer full-body mole screening with dermatoscopy (skin surface microscopy) to examine moles in detail without surgery. If needed, we also provide:
- Digital mole mapping for high-risk patients
- Skin biopsies to confirm diagnosis
- Mole monitoring for subtle changes over time
- Cryotherapy or laser for benign mole removal
- Surgical excision for suspicious lesions with histopathology
All procedures are performed by board-certified dermatologists with extensive experience in medical dermatology and skin oncology.
Mole Removal Options in Korea
If a mole is bothersome cosmetically or causes discomfort, safe removal options include:
- Surgical Excision
- For larger or suspicious moles
- Ensures clean margins and histological review
- Laser Mole Removal
- For small, flat, benign moles
- Minimal downtime and scarring
- Cryotherapy
- Used for superficial pigmented lesions and benign growths
Your dermatologist will recommend the safest option based on the mole type, depth, and location.
Who Should Get a
Mole Check in Korea?
- Individuals with more than 50 moles
- Anyone with a history of sunburns or tanning bed use
- Patients with a personal or family history of melanoma
- People who have noticed a changing or new mole
- Travelers or expats who want a full skin check during their stay in Korea
What to Expect During a Visit
At our clinic in Gangnam:
- We conduct a visual and dermoscopic exam
- Discuss any concerns or mole changes you’ve noticed
- Remove or biopsy any suspicious lesions, if needed
- Offer cosmetic mole removal options upon request
- Provide follow-up instructions and long-term mole monitoring
Our English-speaking dermatology team ensures clear communication and comfort for international patients.
Skin Safety & Prevention Tips
- Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily
- Avoid peak sun hours (10 am – 4 pm)
- Wear hats and protective clothing outdoors
- Do monthly skin self-exams and check for new or changing moles
- Get an annual mole check if you're high-risk
Book Your Mole Check in Seoul
Early detection saves lives. If you're living in or visiting Korea and want a professional mole check, our dermatologists in Gangnam, Seoul are here to help. We offer fast, accurate, and affordable screenings in a foreigner-friendly setting.
Contact us today to schedule your skin screening appointment.