"It's Illegal in the US but Legal in Korea... Cheap and Skilled": Korea Emerges as a "Mecca" Thanks to Word of Mouth

Rejuran Gains Popularity in the U.S. for Skin Rejuvenation
No FDA Approval Yet, So Americans Travel to Korea for Legal Treatments

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on September 5 (local time) that a growing number of American women are flying to Korea to receive "Rejuran" injections.

Rejuran is a cosmetic injection known for its skin elasticity improvement and regenerative effects. It is based on a polynucleotide (PN) component, which consists of DNA fragments extracted from salmon cells. This ingredient is believed to help repair damaged skin cells and promote collagen production, thereby improving skin texture.

Kim Kardashian Instagram.

Rejuran was first launched in Korea in 2014 and is now approved in more than 20 countries, but it has not yet been authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). As a result, in the United States, it is only available in serum or cream form, not as an injectable.

The popularity of Rejuran in the U.S. has soared after being publicly mentioned by Hollywood actress Jennifer Aniston and influencer Kim Kardashian. Coupled with the "K-beauty" craze that began in Korea and spread through social media, more patients are traveling to Korea to receive the injections legally. WSJ noted, "While the injection is legal in some countries such as Canada, the cost there is much higher than in Korea."

However, there are experts who do not view the effects of Rejuran positively. Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Catherine Chang pointed out, "Some patients say their skin texture improved, but there are also cases where no change was felt," adding, "Some may experience side effects such as irritation or rashes."

Kim Kardashian receiving skincare treatment during her visit to Korea last August. Photo captured from Kim Kardashian's Instagram.

There is also a skeptical view that sufficient scientific evidence has not yet been accumulated. Experts advise that both the exaggerated expectations and the potential risks surrounding Rejuran should be considered. Since it has not yet received FDA approval, long-term verification of its safety and efficacy is necessary.

Nevertheless, WSJ analyzed that Korea remains a "mecca" for skincare enthusiasts, and that the global influence of K-beauty is behind the Rejuran craze. Dr. Chang stated, "Skincare in Asia, especially Korea, is generally more advanced than in the United States, and with the popularity of K-pop and K-dramas, K-beauty has emerged as a global trend."