South Korea Cataract Surgery Devices Market Overview,2030

The South Korea cataract surgery devices market has evolved significantly over the decades, transforming from a small, specialist-driven segment into one of the most advanced and technology-oriented sectors in Asia’s healthcare landscape. In the early years, cataract surgeries in South Korea were primarily conducted using basic extracapsular techniques, with limited availability of modern equipment. Today, South Korea stands out for its high surgery volume, adoption of laser-assisted cataract systems, and rapid shift toward premium lenses such as multifocal, toric, and extended-depth-of-focus (EDOF) IOLs. These advanced devices not only restore vision but also reduce dependence on glasses, making them highly desirable among aging but active populations. Demand in the South Korean market is further boosted by increasing awareness of eye health, improved screening programs, and widespread access to ophthalmic care through both public and private hospitals. The proliferation of specialized eye clinics and medical tourism has also fueled growth, as South Korea has become a preferred destination for advanced eye surgeries due to its skilled surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities. Promotion and marketing strategies in this segment are becoming more patient-centric, with hospitals and device manufacturers focusing on educational campaigns that highlight the benefits of modern cataract surgery. South Korea maintains a highly structured and transparent medical device approval system governed by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). Cataract surgery devices, particularly intraocular lenses and phaco machines, fall under strict classification standards that require clinical data, safety validation, and performance testing before market entry.

According to the research report, "" South Korea Cataract Surgery Devices Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the South Korea Cataract Surgery Devices market is anticipated to add to USD 60 Million by 2025–30. South Korea’s innovation ecosystem encourages research into next-generation cataract technologies, such as femtosecond laser systems and AI-assisted surgical guidance, supported by strong R&D incentives. Looking ahead, opportunities in the South Korean cataract surgery devices market lie in expanding the adoption of premium IOLs, developing minimally invasive and automated tools, and tapping into the country’s thriving medical tourism industry. With its combination of advanced healthcare infrastructure, strict regulatory oversight, and high patient awareness, South Korea continues to be a dynamic and growing market for cataract surgery devices. The country also aligns with global quality standards such as ISO certifications for manufacturing processes, ensuring credibility and safety. However, the regulatory process can be time-consuming for new entrants, requiring collaboration with local partners to navigate compliance requirements effectively. Technological innovation plays a crucial role in market expansion the integration of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS), AI-driven imaging, and digital surgical guidance systems has enhanced surgical precision, reduced recovery time, and improved patient outcomes, making South Korea one of the leading adopters of cutting-edge ophthalmic technologies in Asia. South Korea’s government and private sector continuously invest in hospital infrastructure, R&D, and device innovation. Medical device manufacturers both domestic and international are actively collaborating with research institutes to develop next-generation cataract solutions, such as foldable, injectable lenses and robotic-assisted surgery systems.

Intra-ocular lenses (IOLs) form the cornerstone of the market, as cataract surgery is among the most frequently performed ophthalmic procedures in the nation. The demand for premium IOLs including multifocal, toric, and extended-depth-of-focus (EDOF) lenses is steadily increasing, driven by patient awareness and preference for spectacle-free vision after surgery. While the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) typically covers monofocal IOLs, patients often choose to pay extra for premium lenses in private and specialty eye centers, especially in urban areas such as Seoul, Busan, and Incheon. Domestic manufacturers, along with major international brands, compete actively in this space, offering high-quality lenses designed for precision and long-term optical stability. Phacoemulsification systems are the technological backbone of cataract surgery in South Korea, with nearly all operations performed using modern, high-frequency phaco units that enable smaller incisions, faster recovery, and minimal trauma. Hospitals and specialized clinics continuously upgrade to newer phaco platforms that offer intelligent fluidics control and energy efficiency, aligning with South Korea’s reputation for precision medicine and patient safety. Ophthalmic viscoelastic devices (OVDs) represent a stable and indispensable segment, ensuring ocular protection and smooth IOL implantation. Demand for OVDs mirrors the high surgical volume across the country, with clinicians preferring advanced formulations for better chamber stability and postoperative clarity. Femtosecond laser systems, though a smaller segment, are increasingly gaining popularity among leading private eye hospitals and luxury ophthalmic centers, as they enable precise capsulotomy and lens fragmentation, enhancing safety and predictability.

Hospitals, including both large university-affiliated medical centers and public healthcare institutions, perform a substantial share of cataract surgeries under the NHIS coverage. These facilities focus on cost-effective, high-throughput surgeries using standardized IOLs and reliable phacoemulsification systems, ensuring accessibility for the broader population. However, private eye hospitals and specialized ophthalmic centers are gaining a strong foothold in the market, particularly in urban areas, by offering premium services and the latest technologies. Institutions such as B&VIIT Eye Center, BalGeunSeSang Eye Clinic, and Kim’s Eye Hospital have become well-known for providing advanced procedures with premium IOLs and laser-assisted cataract surgery options, appealing to patients seeking superior vision correction and minimal recovery time. Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) are expanding rapidly as South Korea’s healthcare system promotes efficient outpatient care models. These centers are equipped with compact phaco units and advanced visualization tools, focusing on fast, same-day procedures with personalized service. Ophthalmology clinics across the country serve as the first point of contact for most patients, providing comprehensive eye examinations, diagnostic imaging, and postoperative management. Many clinics are integrated into broader ophthalmic networks that coordinate care between diagnostics and surgical facilities. Academic and research institutes play a pivotal role in South Korea’s cataract surgery ecosystem, contributing to medical training, device testing, and innovation in IOL design and surgical technique. They often collaborate with local and global manufacturers to develop new materials and smart surgical systems.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Cataract Surgery Devices Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type
• Intra-ocular Lenses (IOL)
• Phacoemulsification Systems
• Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices
• Femtosecond Laser Systems
• Others (Knives and Low-Cost Consumables)

By End User
• Hospitals
• Ambulatory Surgery Centers
• Ophthalmology Clinics
• Academic and Research Institutes Show more