
On March 20, it was reported that a well-known actress, referred to as 'A,' has been awarded 48,039,295 KRW (about $33,000) in compensation after suffering second-degree burns on her face during a cosmetic procedure at a dermatology clinic.
According to the Herald Business on the 20th, the Seoul Central District Court’s 18th Civil Division (Presiding Judge Park Joon Min) ruled in favor of actress 'A' in a 200 million (about $136,500) damages lawsuit against dermatologist 'B' from a clinic in Seocho-gu, Seoul. The court acknowledged 'B's' negligence and ordered compensation of 48,039,295 KRW (about $33,000).
Actress 'A' began her acting career in 2012 and gained recognition through leading roles in dramas such as 'A Gentleman’s Dignity' and 'Discovery of Love.' She has also appeared on a recent variety show.
In May 2021, 'A' underwent three cosmetic procedures under sedation aimed at improving wrinkles, including ultrasonic and laser treatments. However, the procedure resulted in injuries to her left cheek. Despite the visible injury, 'B' only applied a hydrocolloid bandage and took no further action.
It was later confirmed that 'A' had sustained second-degree burns. Since 2021, 'A' has undergone around 50 treatments, including scar recovery procedures, at other clinics. While the injury has improved over time, medical evaluations indicated that the scar remains visible from a distance of two to three meters, which could be noticed during conversations.
The injury also affected 'A's' professional work. She had to film a weekend drama shortly after the incident, which required computer-generated imagery (CG) to cover the scar. The cost of the CG work amounted to 9.55 million KRW (about $ 6,520).
The court stated, "There is no record in the medical chart indicating that the intensity or energy supply of the procedure was adjusted." The court further noted, "'B' failed to adjust the procedure's intensity based on 'A's' reactions (such as heat and pain) under sedation."
Taking into account 'A's' profession, where appearance directly influences her economic value, the court awarded compensation totaling approximately 48 million KRW (about $33,000)—lower than the 200 million KRW (about $136,500) initially claimed by 'A.' The breakdown includes 11.16 million KRW (about $7,620) for medical expenses already incurred, 11 million won for future treatments, 10.77 million KRW (about $7,353) for lost income, and 25 million KRW ($17,071) for psychological damage. However, the court excluded the CG expenses from the damages.
Neither 'A' nor 'B' appealed the decision, making the ruling final.
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