The aesthetic medical device market is heating up as global companies compete to attract Korean clinicians focused on skin beauty, while domestic Korean firms leverage their technology to expand overseas. According to industry sources on May 17, Laseroptek showcased its next-generation vascular laser 'VASCURA 589' and early clinical results at the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS 2026). The company reported that Dr. R. Rox Anderson, a Harvard Medical School professor known as the father of modern dermatologic lasers, visited its booth and noted the technical originality and early clinical outcomes of VASCURA 589. Dr. Anderson contributed to the theory of selective photothermolysis and is a global authority in laser-based medical devices. ASLMS 2026 was held from May 7 to 9 at the Savannah Convention Center in Georgia, USA. Laseroptek operated a standalone booth featuring devices such as HELIOS 785, PicoLO PREMIUM, PALLAS, and PALLAS PREMIUM, and introduced VASCURA 589, which is currently undergoing FDA clearance. CEO Lee Chang-jin said, "It is encouraging that VASCURA 589 received recognition for its technical originality and clinical potential from Dr. Anderson. We will accelerate our global expansion in vascular and skin treatment markets based on our proprietary laser technology." Classys also participated in ASLMS 2026, presenting its radiofrequency device 'EVERESSE' (the US brand name for Volnewmer) and other key products. The company plans to speed up its US market entry with a multi-platform integrated portfolio strategy rather than a single-product approach, aiming to maximize in-clinic utilization and offer customized treatment combinations. A Classys representative stated, "The US market is a key strategic market we must lead, not just enter. We will expand our influence in the short term through a differentiated portfolio based on technology and clinical data." Meanwhile, foreign companies are intensifying their efforts in Korea. Solta Medical Korea, the aesthetic business unit of US-based Bausch Health, launched a new advertisement embodying its brand philosophy of 'awakening the skin's natural beauty.' The company markets Thermage, Fraxel, and Clear + Brilliant. A company spokesperson said, "This year marks the fifth anniversary of our partnership with brand muse actress Kim Sung-ryung and Thermage FLX, making this campaign meaningful. The deep trust built over five consecutive years—unprecedented in the aesthetic device industry—supports the brand's authenticity in the campaign film, conveying a message of encouragement for consumers to enjoy life's brightest moments on their own terms." Merz Aesthetics Korea held the 'Aura Grand Symposium' for its next-generation ultrasound lifting device 'Ultherapy Prime' on May 9 at the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas. The symposium, attended by over 300 Korean clinicians, presented the first results from a large-scale retrospective observational study collected from multiple institutions since Ultherapy Prime's domestic launch in March. CEO Yoo Soo-yeon said, "Merz will continue to help clinicians and patients make trustworthy choices based on accumulated evidence and experience, striving to create a safer and healthier medical aesthetics environment."
Source: Read the original report | Published: May 17, 2026