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Korean medicine · 약침

Pharmacopuncture (Yakchim) in Gangnam

Small amounts of purified herbal extract injected at acupuncture points or painful areas. Often added to acupuncture for joint and back pain.

Quick facts
  • Korean name: 약침
  • Procedure time: 10 to 20 minutes on top of acupuncture
  • Anesthesia: None
  • Sessions: Commonly 1 to 2 per week for several weeks
  • Downtime: None
  • Results: Some relief within a few sessions
  • Lasts: Variable; often repeated during flare-ups

What is Pharmacopuncture?

Pharmacopuncture, or yakchim, combines acupuncture and injection: a Korean medicine doctor injects a sterile herbal extract into acupoints, muscles or around joints. It is a common add-on at Gangnam hanuiwon for musculoskeletal pain.

It is not covered by national insurance, and prices vary widely between clinics.

How it works

Extracts are prepared in certified external herbal dispensaries. Common types include bee venom (BV), sweet bee venom with allergens removed, Jungsongouhyul (JSOH) for inflammation and Shinbaro for spine and joint pain. The doctor injects 0.1 to 2 ml at several points with a fine insulin-type needle, usually in the same visit as acupuncture.

Who it suits

  • Chronic neck, shoulder and lower back pain
  • Knee pain in early osteoarthritis
  • People already having acupuncture who want an added treatment

Who should skip it or wait

  • Known bee venom allergy (for BV types)
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Pregnancy
  • Skin infection at the injection site

Side effects and risks

  • Swelling, itching and redness at injection points
  • Allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis with bee venom
  • Bruising
  • Infection (rare)

Aftercare

  • Stay at the clinic 15 to 30 minutes after a first bee venom session
  • Avoid hot baths and saunas on the day
  • Report hives, wheezing or facial swelling immediately
  • Skip alcohol on treatment day

Planning around your trip

If you have never had bee venom, ask for a skin test first and do not schedule it just before a flight.

Korean Medicine clinics near Apgujeong

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Pharmacopuncture price

Prices for this treatment depend on the doctor's assessment, so clinics quote after consultation. Message us and we collect quotes from clinics near Apgujeong Station.

Pharmacopuncture questions

Is bee venom pharmacopuncture safe if I have never been stung?

Clinics do a skin test before the first session because allergy can be unpredictable. Sweet bee venom has had the main allergen removed, which lowers but does not remove the risk.

How is pharmacopuncture different from a steroid injection?

It uses herbal extracts rather than corticosteroids, and amounts are small. The evidence base is smaller than for steroid injections.

How much does pharmacopuncture cost?

HIRA's 2025 disclosure showed a national median of about KRW 10,000 per item with a very wide range up to KRW 300,000, so ask the clinic for the exact extract and price before treatment.

Can I combine pharmacopuncture with chuna?

Yes, many clinics bundle acupuncture, pharmacopuncture and chuna in one visit for back pain.

Will I have marks afterward?

Small red bumps are common for a few hours. Bee venom can leave itchy swelling for 1 to 2 days.

Is pharmacopuncture covered by Korean insurance?

No. It is a non-covered service even for insured patients, so price varies by clinic and extract type.

Plan your visit

Get a quote before you fly

Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.