Joint Center · Gangnam, Seoul

Knee Center in Gangnam, Seoul Expert care in English

From a sore knee after a run to advanced arthritis, our orthopedic surgeons assess your knee in English and start with the least invasive option that fits your goals.

English-speaking coordinators
Non-surgical care first
Robotic-assisted knee replacement
Quick answer Where can I see an English-speaking knee specialist in Seoul?

Gangnam Nanoori Hospital's Knee Center, at 731 Eonju-ro in Gangnam-gu near Hakdong Station (Line 7, Exit 10), treats knee pain, arthritis, ACL tears and meniscus tears with help from English-speaking coordinators. Orthopedic surgeons examine your knee, review imaging, and usually begin with physical therapy or image-guided injections, offering arthroscopy or robotic-assisted knee replacement when needed. To book, message WhatsApp +82-10-6290-9796 or email ihc_info@mfnanoori.co.kr.

Written by Nanoori International Healthcare Center Care led by Nanoori Joint Center orthopedic surgeons Last updated
Our focus

Knee problems we diagnose and treat

Your knee carries your body weight with every step, so even a small problem can affect work, travel and sport. Our Knee Center is part of the Nanoori Joint Center and covers the full range of knee conditions, from overuse pain to joint replacement. If you are not sure what is wrong, start with our knee pain guide.

Osteoarthritis

Gradual wear of the cartilage that cushions the joint, causing pain, stiffness and swelling, most often after age 50.

ACL tears

A ligament injury from pivoting or landing awkwardly, common in soccer, basketball and skiing. The knee may feel unstable.

Meniscus tears

Damage to the knee's shock-absorbing cartilage from a twist or from wear. It can cause catching, locking or swelling.

Runner's knee

Pain around or behind the kneecap, often worse with running, stairs, squatting or sitting for a long time.

Bow legs

Inward-bowed alignment that overloads the inner side of the knee and can speed up arthritis there.

Sports and overuse injuries

Sprains, tendon pain and cartilage injuries from training, hiking or a fall on the ski slopes.

How we treat

Our step-by-step approach to knee care

Many knee problems improve without surgery. We move up the ladder only when the simpler steps are not enough, and we explain each option before you decide.

Listen and examine

Your surgeon asks how the pain started and what it stops you doing, then checks swelling, movement, stability and alignment.

Targeted imaging

X-rays show bone and arthritis; ultrasound or MRI shows ligaments, meniscus and cartilage when the exam suggests an injury.

Rehabilitation first

Physical therapy with dedicated therapists, activity changes and medication help many knees settle. Exercise is the foundation of almost every plan.

Image-guided injections

Ultrasound- or fluoroscopy-guided injections can calm pain. For arthritis, a bone marrow (BMAC) injection may suit selected patients.

Arthroscopy or replacement

If symptoms persist or the knee is unstable, options include knee arthroscopy, osteotomy, or robotic-assisted joint replacement.

Quick guide

Which knee problem fits your symptoms?

This table is a rough guide only. Several problems can overlap, and an examination is the best way to know what is going on.

Your main symptom Often linked to Typical first step
A pop, rapid swelling and the knee giving way after a pivot ACL tear Exam and MRI, then rehabilitation or reconstruction
Catching, locking or sharp pain when you twist or squat Meniscus tear Exam and MRI, then therapy or arthroscopy
Ache at the front of the knee on stairs or after running Runner's knee Physical therapy and load management
Morning stiffness and pain that builds over months or years Osteoarthritis X-ray, exercise, injections; replacement if severe
Pain on the inner side of the knee with bowed legs Bow legs with inner knee arthritis Standing X-ray to check alignment

If your knee is hot, red and very swollen with fever, or you cannot bear weight after an injury, seek care the same day.

Before & After

What knee replacement changes inside the joint

When arthritis has worn the cartilage away, knee replacement resurfaces the joint with smooth implants. Robotic assistance helps the surgeon plan implant position and alignment for your anatomy.

Before Worn cartilage Bone on bone
Before: Arthritis has thinned the cartilage, so bone rubs on bone. The knee is painful, stiff and may bow outward.
After Smooth implant Restored alignment
After: Worn surfaces are replaced with metal and plastic implants, aiming for a smoother, better-aligned knee and less pain.

Simplified medical illustration for education only, not a patient image. Results vary by condition and individual; your specialist will explain what to expect for your case.

FAQ

Common Questions

Do I need a referral to see a knee specialist?

No referral is needed. Contact our international patient coordinators on WhatsApp and they will help you book an appointment with a Joint Center orthopedic surgeon.

Should I bring my MRI or X-rays from home?

Yes, please bring any recent imaging on a disc or as digital files, together with the written reports. Your surgeon will review them and decide whether new images are needed.

Does Nanoori accept my insurance?

We accept Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) for enrolled foreign residents. If you have international health insurance, our coordinators can explain the billing documents we provide so you can claim from your insurer. Please check your own coverage before treatment, as we cannot guarantee direct billing or reimbursement.

Will I need knee surgery?

Usually not at first. Many knee problems, including runner's knee and early arthritis, improve with physical therapy, activity changes and sometimes injections. Surgery is considered when the knee stays painful or unstable despite good conservative care.

I am visiting Seoul. How long should I plan to stay for knee treatment?

It depends on the problem. A consultation and imaging may take a single visit, while surgery needs time for follow-up checks and early rehabilitation before a long flight. Share your travel dates with our coordinators so your surgeon can advise a realistic plan.

How do I get to the hospital?

Gangnam Nanoori Hospital is at 731 Eonju-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. The nearest subway is Hakdong Station on Line 7, Exit 10. See our contact page for directions.

Talk to a knee specialist in English

Send your symptoms or scans on WhatsApp and our coordinators will help you book a consultation.

WhatsApp +82-10-6290-9796