South Korea is globally recognized for its advanced healthcare system and high demand for dental professionals. As the country continues to invest in cutting-edge dental technology and healthcare infrastructure, the earning potential for dentists remains strong. Whether you are a local professional or an international dentist considering working in South Korea, understanding the salary trends, job prospects, and career growth opportunities is essential.
In this article, we provide an in-depth analysis of dentist salaries in South Korea for 2025, covering salary variations by experience, location, and specialization. Additionally, we explore the factors influencing dental income, market trends, and future projections for the industry. Read on to discover how much dentists earn in South Korea and what you can expect in this thriving profession.
This Blog Includes:
- How Much Does a Dentist Salary in South Korea?
- Dentist Salary in South Korea Based On Experience Level
- Dentist Salary in South Korea Based On Education Level
- Dentist Salary in South Korea Based On Organisation
- Dentist Salary in South Korea Based On Cities
- Dentist Salary in South Korea Based On Positions
- FAQs
How Much Does a Dentist Salary in South Korea?
Dentists in South Korea earn competitive salaries, reflecting their expertise and the demand for dental services. On average, a dentist in South Korea makes KRW 112,440,200 annually, or about KRW 9,370,016 per month. For those just starting their careers, the salary can be lower, with entry-level dentists earning around KRW 51,719,500 annually (approximately KRW 4,309,958 per month). However, as experience and specialization grow, salaries can increase significantly, with top-tier dentists earning up to KRW 178,800,800 annually (or KRW 14,900,066 per month).
Factors such as location, the type of practice, and additional skills can all impact earnings, making dentistry a well-compensated and rewarding profession in South Korea.
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Dentist Salary in South Korea Based On Experience Level
In 2025, dentist salaries in South Korea continue to be highly competitive, with earnings increasing significantly with experience and specialization. If you are looking to advance in this field, gaining expertise in high-demand dental services and establishing a strong reputation can substantially enhance your earning potential.
Newly graduated dentists or those with less than three years of experience typically start with a moderate income. Many begin their careers in private clinics or as associates in larger dental hospitals. Senior dentists, particularly those running private practices or working in high-end clinics, earn the highest salaries.
A dentist’s salary in South Korea varies significantly based on experience. Entry-level dentists earn considerably less than those with years of practice and expertise. Below is a detailed breakdown of how much dentists earn in South Korea in 2025, based on their experience level.
Experience Level | Average Salary Per Year |
0-2 Years | KRW 58,680,100 |
2-5 Years | KRW 78,358,100 |
5-10 Years | KRW 115,799,700 |
10-15 Years | KRW 141,598,200 |
15-20 Years | KRW 153,600,700 |
20+ Years | KRW 166,799,600 |
Dentist Salary in South Korea Based On Education Level
Dentists who pursue a Master’s degree in Orthodontics, Prosthodontics, Endodontics, or Cosmetic Dentistry see a significant salary boost. Many work in specialty clinics or high-end private practices where they can charge premium fees for advanced treatments.
In South Korea, a dentist’s salary is significantly influenced by their level of education. Higher qualifications, such as a Master’s or Doctorate in Dentistry, lead to increased earning potential, specialization opportunities, and senior roles in hospitals or private clinics.
Ph.D. holders in Dentistry often become professors, researchers, or leading consultants in specialized fields such as dental surgery, implantology, and forensic dentistry. Below is a breakdown of dentist salaries based on education level in 2025.
Education Level | Average Salary Per Year |
Bachelor’s Degree | KRW 29,400,000 |
Master’s Degree | KRW 58,300,000 |
PhD | KRW 70,400,000 |
Dentist Salary in South Korea Based On Organisation
Public hospitals provide steady employment and offer competitive salaries, particularly for specialists in prosthodontics, oral surgery, and endodontics.
In South Korea, dentists’ salaries can vary based on the type of organization they work for. Here’s an overview of how salaries differ across various employment settings:
Organisation | Average Salary Per Year |
Naver | KRW 10,000,000- KRW 12,000,000 |
Korea University | KRW 5,000,000- KRW 7,000,000 |
Chung Aung University | KRW 3,400,000- KRW 3,600,000 |
Bank of America | KRW 7,000,000- KRW 8,000,000 |
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Dentist Salary in South Korea Based On Cities
Dentist salaries in South Korea vary significantly based on location, with urban centres like Seoul offering higher earnings compared to other regions. Here’s an overview of average annual salaries for dentists in different cities:
Cities | Average Salary Per Year |
Bucheon | KRW 100,798,800 |
Ulsan | KRW 113,159,000 |
Seongnam | KRW 105,960,300 |
Seoul | KRW 130,799,600 |
Suwon | KRW 110,158,800 |
Busan | KRW 118,920,100 |
Daegu | KRW 119,998,200 |
Daejeon | KRW 121,199,300 |
Goyang | KRW 102,599,200 |
Gwangju | KRW 109,678,600 |
Incheon | KRW 119,640,400 |
Dentist Salary in South Korea Based On Positions
Dentist salaries in South Korea vary significantly based on the city and region where they practice. Major metropolitan areas like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon offer higher salaries due to a larger patient base, higher living costs, and greater demand for specialized dental services. Meanwhile, dentists in smaller cities and rural areas may earn less but benefit from lower competition and operational costs.
Below is a 2025 updated salary breakdown for dentists in different South Korean cities.
Positions | Average Salary Per Year |
Dental Assistant | KRW 32,639,300 |
Dental Hygienist | KRW 31,201,500 |
Dental Laboratory Technician | KRW 31,081,900 |
Dental Receptionist | KRW 25,440,400 |
Dental Technician | KRW 28,679,900 |
Dental Therapist | KRW 44,040,700 |
District Nurse | KRW 37,561,000 |
Doctor | KRW 116,879,800 |
Forensic Pathologist | KRW 125,999,700 |
Discharge Coordinator | KRW 20,038,100 |
Critical Care Nurse | KRW 44,519,300 |
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FAQs
In South Korea, the average dentist makes KRW 93,018,038 in gross pay, which is comparable to KRW 44,720 per hour. They also receive bonuses of KRW 3,246,330 on average. wage estimates are derived from wage survey information obtained directly from South Korean companies and anonymous workers.
In South Korea, a monthly salary of about 2,000,000 won, or $1,680, is typically seen as sufficient to live comfortably. However, there are differences in the average monthly wage by occupation, gender, and educational attainment.
South Korea is a great place to get dental work done since it provides high-quality treatment, cutting-edge technology, and affordable options. Whether you require simple dental care or more involved operations like full mouth implants, South Korean clinics offer top-notch services to satisfy your requirements.
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