In a recent court ruling on March 20, a prominent actress known as 'A' has been granted a compensation of 48,039,295 KRW (approximately $33,000) following injuries sustained during a cosmetic procedure at a dermatology clinic. The Seoul Central District Court’s 18th Civil Division, under Presiding Judge Park Joon Min, found in favor of 'A' in a lawsuit seeking damages of 200 million KRW (around $136,500) against dermatologist 'B' from a clinic in Seocho-gu, Seoul. The court attributed negligence to 'B' and directed the payment of the specified compensation amount.
'A' embarked on her acting journey in 2012, gaining acclaim for her roles in popular dramas like 'A Gentleman’s Dignity' and 'Discovery of Love,' as well as an appearance on a recent variety show. The incident occurred in May 2021 when 'A' underwent multiple cosmetic treatments aimed at enhancing her skin's appearance but suffered injuries, including second-degree burns on her left cheek, due to the procedure. Despite the severity of the injury, 'B' administered only a hydrocolloid bandage without further actions.
Medical assessments later confirmed the second-degree burns, leading to 'A' undergoing numerous treatments at other clinics since 2021 to facilitate scar healing. Although the scar has improved with time, evaluations revealed that it remains noticeable from a distance of two to three meters, impacting 'A's' professional engagements. The necessity for computer-generated imagery (CG) to conceal the scar during filming a drama incurred costs amounting to 9.55 million KRW (approximately $6,520).
The court highlighted the lack of adjustment in the procedure's intensity during the treatment and 'B's' failure to respond based on 'A's' reactions during sedation, leading to the judgment in favor of 'A.' Notably, the court factored in the impact on 'A's' profession, where physical appearance significantly influences her economic value, in determining the compensation amount of approximately 48 million KRW (around $33,000), which was lower than the initial claim. The compensation comprises allocations for medical expenses, future treatments, lost income, and psychological damage, omitting the CG-related costs from the damages.
The ruling, unchallenged by both 'A' and 'B,' has been finalized, concluding the legal proceedings surrounding the incident.