Barley Tea: Korea’s Time-Honored Elixir for Modern Wellness

For centuries, Koreans have cherished a beverage as elemental as water yet imbued with remarkable health benefits: barley tea. Renowned for its nutty aroma and gentle flavor, it appeals to all ages. Despite its name, barley tea contains no tea leaves; it’s a grain infusion crafted from roasted barley, technically a “substitute tea.”This technicality does not lessen its merit. Barley tea delivers a spectrum of health benefits, from aiding diabetic patients in blood glucose control to providing detoxifying and antioxidant properties, making it a favored choice for cancer patients on strict di

Healthcare Haeun Oh, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.26 18:27

Inha University Hospital Shines in 2025 Newsweek Asia-Pacific Specialty Rankings

Incheon, South Korea — Inha University Hospital has earned a distinguished place in the 2025 Asia-Pacific Best Specialty Hospitals ranking, a joint assessment by Newsweek and research firm Statista. Five of its departments were recognized for their medical expertise and reliability, marking the hospital as the only one in Incheon and northwestern Gyeonggi Province to achieve such broad acclaim.The hospital’s pulmonology department secured 8th place in Asia and 5th in South Korea, while pediatrics ranked 37th in Asia. The endocrinology department placed 44th, neurosurgery 73rd, and neurology

Doctor & Hospital Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.26 18:17

Cheongju TOP Hospital Appoints Dr. Kook In-cheol to Lead Orthopedic Joint Care

Cheongju, South Korea — Cheongju TOP Hospital’s Joint Treatment Center has appointed Dr. Kook In-cheol, a seasoned orthopedic surgeon, to enhance its specialized services and elevate patient care. Dr. Kook will begin seeing patients on November 1, offering extensive expertise in joint disorders, fractures, trauma, and sports injuries, with an emphasis on individualized treatment.Dr. Kook graduated from Hanyang University College of Medicine, completed his orthopedic residency at Hanyang University Hospital, and earned master’s and doctoral degrees in orthopedic trauma from the same institut

Doctor & Hospital Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.26 18:12

Acne Scar Treatment Program Launched at Human Dermatology Clinic Seoul National University Branch

Acne, a widespread skin disorder affecting both adolescents and adults, often leaves persistent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring that rarely resolve without intervention. Among patients in their twenties and thirties, who are particularly attentive to their appearance, there is increasing demand for specialized treatments to address diverse skin conditions.Human Dermatology Clinic’s Seoul National University branch has introduced a comprehensive program for acne scars and discoloration. The program employs pico laser therapy to treat hyperpigmentation, fractional laser treatme

Doctor & Hospital Kim Kuk Ju, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.26 18:07

Understanding Osgood-Schlatter Disease: A Common Cause of Knee Pain in Growing Children

[Physician's Column] By Jeong-Hyun Yoo, Guseong Seoul Orthopedic ClinicParents often attribute knee pain in children and adolescents to "growing pains." These discomforts arise when the periosteum, the membrane encasing bones, stretches and stimulates surrounding nerves as bones grow faster than adjacent muscles or tendons. Typically, such pains resolve without intervention. Yet, if pain, swelling, or warmth persists despite limited activity or typical growth, it may indicate a different condition. A medical evaluation is essential to identify the cause.One frequent knee issue in adolescents i

Medicine Kim Kuk Ju, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.25 18:16

GentleMax Pro Laser Hair Removal: Preparing Skin for Summer

[Physician's Column] By Min-gyun Na, All Line ClinicSummer's arrival brings lighter clothing and greater skin exposure, underscoring the importance of meticulous grooming. Laser hair removal has become a favored approach for facial and body treatments, delivering both aesthetic refinement and hygienic benefits.The GentleMax Pro, a leading hair removal system, has gained prominence in dermatology for its efficacy across diverse skin types and hair textures. It employs a dual-wavelength platform—Alexandrite (755 nm) and Nd:YAG (1064 nm)—enabling customized treatments. Unlike traditional method

Medicine Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.25 18:10

Rotator Cuff Tears: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

[Physician's Column] By Seongryul Park, Incheon Hi HospitalShoulder pain complaints are rising as repetitive motions and poor posture become more prevalent. Among the leading causes are rotator cuff tears, a condition affecting homemakers who frequently strain their shoulders and athletes in sports like baseball or badminton that require extensive shoulder rotation. Overuse significantly elevates the risk of such tears. According to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, 2.446 million patients sought treatment for shoulder disorders in 2023, with 60.4% aged 50 to 60.A rotator cuff

Healthcare Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.25 18:05

Summer Eye Safety: Preventing Infections at Pools and Water Parks

[Physician's Column] By Soo Ji Jeon, M.D., Apgujeong St. Mary’s Eye ClinicAs summer draws families to water parks, beaches, splash pads, and fountains, the risk of eye infections rises. Warm, humid environments foster bacterial and viral proliferation, leading to a surge in conjunctivitis cases. Commonly known as “pink eye,” this condition requires vigilance. Below, we examine the types, symptoms, and prevention strategies for summer conjunctivitis.Swimming pools, despite chlorination, harbor contaminants like sweat, saliva, and urine, creating ideal conditions for pathogens. Without precau

Healthcare Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.25 16:34

Nunemiso Eye Center Adopts CLEAR Flow Suite for SMILE Laser Surgery

[Physician's Column] By Koo-Hyung Jin, Nunemiso Eye CenterSEOUL, South Korea — Nunemiso Eye Center announced on June 23 that it has implemented the CLEAR Flow Suite, a next-generation digital platform for SMILE laser eye surgery, developed by Swiss medical device manufacturer ZIEMER.This adoption stems from a strategic partnership with ZIEMER, designating the Seoul-based hospital as a global pilot institution for the technology.The CLEAR Flow Suite integrates with ZIEMER’s Femto LDV Z8 laser system to automate the examination, surgical planning, and operative processes through a digital fram

Doctor & Hospital Kim Kuk Ju, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.25 16:28

Understanding Cataract Care and Surgery: A Guide for Aging Eyes

[Physician's Column] By Dr. Jin Woo Ro, Kangnam The Light Eye Center, Gwangju, KoreaAs populations age worldwide, cataract cases are rising sharply. Many patients mistake cataracts for presbyopia or delay treatment until symptoms become severe. Ophthalmologists stress that early diagnosis and systematic management are essential for optimal outcomes.Cataracts occur when the eye’s clear lens becomes opaque, leading to blurred vision. Aging is the primary cause, but diabetes, trauma, or prolonged ultraviolet exposure can also trigger the condition. Early symptoms often include glare from bright

Medicine Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.25 16:22

Early Detection and Treatment Key to Managing Hearing Loss

[Physician's Column] By Taeheon Lim, Director of Sorisoop Otolaryngology ClinicHearing loss, the impaired ability to perceive sound at normal levels, arises from causes beyond congenital defects, including aging, prolonged noise exposure, and infectious diseases. Patients often report muffled speech or tinnitus, a persistent ringing in the ears.Untreated hearing loss disrupts daily life, fostering social isolation, depression, or cognitive decline. Early diagnosis and intervention are vital to prevent these outcomes, yet the condition’s gradual onset frequently delays recognition until signif

Healthcare Kim Kuk Ju, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.25 16:15

Managing Dyshidrotic Eczema in Summer: Insights from Freehug Korean Medicine Clinic Ulsan Branch

[Physician's Column] By Dr. Hyungtak Lee, Freehug Korean Medicine Clinic Ulsan BranchSummer’s intense heat and high humidity often provoke skin conditions that lie dormant in cooler months. One such condition is dyshidrotic eczema, also known as pompholyx, a persistent disorder that can transform the season’s pleasures into sources of discomfort.This condition presents as clusters of small, fluid-filled vesicles on the palms, fingers, and soles. When these blisters rupture, they leave behind scaling, inflamed skin that itches relentlessly and may cause pain. In severe cases, patients experie

Healthcare Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.25 16:09

Revolutionary Kidney Stone Treatment with Suction-Based Ureteroscopy at Goldman Urology Clinic

[Physician's Column] By Dr. Seungki Min, M.D., Goldman Urology ClinicKidney stones, or urolithiasis, are solid masses that form in the urinary tract, typically originating in the kidneys. These stones may migrate through the renal pelvis, ureter, bladder, or urethra, obstructing urine flow and causing severe flank pain, hematuria, nausea, vomiting, and fever.A state-of-the-art procedure, suction-based flexible ureteroscopy (using a Flexible and Navigable Access Sheath, FANS), is transforming kidney stone management. This minimally invasive technique involves inserting a slender endoscope throu

Healthcare Kim Kuk Ju, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.24 15:39

Spinal Stenosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options for Aging Adults

[Physician's Column] By Dr. Kyungwoo Park, Director of Kwanghye Spine Hospital.Lower back pain is a frequent complaint among middle-aged and older adults, often brushed off as an unavoidable part of aging. Many reach for over-the-counter pain relievers or heating patches, chalking up their discomfort to a weekend of overexertion or poor posture. Yet this dismissive approach can obscure serious conditions. Spinal stenosis, nearly as common as herniated discs in older populations, can severely diminish mobility and quality of life if not addressed early.The spine, the body’s central pillar, beg

Medicine Kim Kuk Ju, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.19 23:00

Stem Cell IV Therapy: A Promising Anti-Aging Solution at CELLTING Clinic

[Physician's Column] By Dr. Sang A Yoon, Director of CELLTING Clinic, CheongdamAs aging populations worldwide fuel heightened interest in health and appearance, stem cell intravenous (IV) therapy has emerged as a sought-after anti-aging intervention. Patients are drawn to its potential to address declining skin elasticity, wrinkles, and fatigue, while also enhancing physical recovery and immune function.Stem cells, with their unique capacity to regenerate and repair damaged cells, are administered intravenously to deliver systemic anti-aging benefits across the body.This therapy channels stem

Medicine Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.19 21:10

Summer Skin Protection: Advanced Skin Booster Treatments at NESTCLINIC

[Physician's Column] By JUWONHUI, M.D., Director of NESTCLINICImage Caption: A dermatologist at NESTCLINIC administers the Elavie Rituo skin booster treatment, designed to enhance skin resilience against summer UV damage.The skin, the body’s primary protective barrier, endures constant exposure to environmental stressors. In summer, intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation accelerates skin aging and compromises the skin barrier, the first line of defense against UV rays, particulate matter, and other external threats. Prolonged sun exposure weakens this barrier, leading to inflammation, erythema, d

Healthcare Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.19 20:21

Thoracic Ossification: A Silent Spinal Threat Leading to Paralysis

[Physician's Column] By Dr. Son Seon Yong, Director of Yonsei Baro Chuk Hospital (Neurosurgery Specialist)Back pain is a widespread issue, often brushed off as muscle strain or poor posture. Yet persistent discomfort may signal a far graver condition: ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) in the thoracic spine, which can escalate from mild symptoms to paralysis if ignored.The posterior longitudinal ligament, a structure safeguarding the spinal cord along the spine’s posterior aspect, can thicken and calcify in OPLL, compressing neural tissue. Initially, this process may

Healthcare Kim Kuk Ju, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM 2025.06.19 18:23

Vely B Clinic’s Seongnam Moran Branch to Open on June 27 with Exclusive Promotions

Seongnam, South Korea — Vely B Clinic announced that its new Seongnam Moran branch will open on June 27, offering a range of promotional events to mark the occasion.The Seongnam Moran branch will provide an extensive array of aesthetic treatments, including laser skin procedures, lifting, minimally invasive cosmetic enhancements, hair removal, and body contouring. The clinic aims to deliver tailored solutions by meticulously analyzing each patient’s skin condition and specific needs, ensuring effective and natural-looking results.Prior to any procedure, the clinic conducts a thorough skin di

Doctor & Hospital Kim Kuk Ju, Health In News Team 2025.06.19 18:09

Over 40% of South Korean Adults Develop Hives, Study Reveals

[Physician's Column] By Dr. Arin Lee, Freehug Korean Medicine Clinic Bucheon Branch.More than 40% of South Korean adults experience urticaria, commonly known as hives, at least once in their lifetime, according to a recent report from the Korean Society of Skin Immunology. The finding highlights a widespread condition often dismissed as minor, despite its potential for serious complications.Urticaria manifests as raised, itchy welts that appear suddenly on the skin, triggered by factors such as foods, medications, stress, or temperature changes. Most cases resolve within hours, but when sympt

Doctor & Hospital Health In News Team 2025.06.19 18:04

SNU Eye Clinic Directors Named Among South Korea’s Top 100 Doctors for Vision Correction Expertise

SEOUL, South Korea — Dr. Jeong-Yeol Choi and Dr. Ja-Yoon Moon, directors of SNU Eye Clinic, have been recognized as part of South Korea’s “Top 100 Good Doctors” for their exceptional contributions to vision correction. The duo earned acclaim for their expertise in advanced procedures such as Smart LASIK, SMILE LASIK, DreamLens, and traditional LASIK/LASEK, underpinned by extensive clinical experience and a patient-centered approach.Dr. Choi has pioneered the adoption of fifth-generation Smart SMILE LASIK, addressing limitations of earlier techniques. His implementation of automated astigma

Doctor & Hospital Health In News Team Kim Kuk Ju 2025.06.16 15:46