Why Korean Parents Give Their Kids Plastic Surgery as Graduation Gifts

Oftentimes, parents reward their kids with gifts when they graduate from school

South Korean parents pay for their children’s procedures as a way to congratulate their graduation from high school and entering a university. Statistics show that South Korea is the plastic capital of the world, with Brazil and U.S. trailing behind, according to Business Insider. In fact, getting “something done” in South Korea is as normal at shopping for new clothes – at least to those who can afford it.

Data shows that the most common procedure that patients ask for is blepharoplasty, or double eyelid surgery. A surgeon from Seoul explained that because most Koreans don’t have double eyelids, this kind of surgery has become highly requested.

“Many Asian people believe that first impression is very important and the most important part of the face is the eyes. So, when they have double eyelid surgery, their eyes become bigger. So, they believe their appearance will me much prettier than before surgery,” says Man Koon Suh, a surgeon at JW Plastic Surgery Clinic in Seoul.

In Korea, where a beautiful face is considered a “weapon” to land jobs or to get ahead in your career, plastic surgery is very important. But more than luxury, it has now become a necessity.

“Beautiful people are always chosen first,” Man Koon Suh added.

Korea’s obsession with beauty and outer appearance has already become part of their culture, forcing many to think that in order to become successful or at least be accepted, they need to get “prettier.” Koogle TV reported that Korean parents spend around $1,000 to $3,000 for this graduation gift. But this also comes with a desire to help their children be part of the crème of the crop and then boast about it.

But in a country where most people are aware of this reality, the race to achieve “perfect beauty” seems like a never-ending journey.

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