A South Korean woman has become a topic of global discussion after revealing she has undergone nearly 400 cosmetic procedures over the past 15 years, spending more than 300 million won (approximately $210,000) in the process.
According to reports from international media, Gil Lee-won shared her story during an appearance on the popular South Korean television show It’s OK to Not Be OK. During the interview, she discussed her long and ongoing journey with cosmetic surgery, which she said began in 2010 after years of insecurity about her appearance.
Gil explained that her struggles began during her high school years while preparing for her college entrance exams. She gained weight during that time and became the target of ridicule from classmates. The situation worsened when a former boyfriend criticized her looks, which ultimately motivated her to seek plastic surgery as a way to rebuild her self-confidence.
While Gil did not disclose details of her first procedure, she said that one surgery led to another, resulting in hundreds of treatments aimed at achieving her ideal appearance. She emphasized that she does not regret any of her surgeries and feels more comfortable and confident in her skin today than ever before.
Over the years, Gil has undergone a wide variety of procedures, ranging from facial reconstruction and body contouring to advanced skin rejuvenation treatments. Her list includes forehead fat grafting, ear reconstruction, double eyelid surgery, multiple nose surgeries, chin contouring, lip fillers, dimple reversal, and full-body liposuction revisions. She has also had stem cell injections, skin tightening procedures, shoulder and neck fillers, and various dermatological treatments designed to maintain her youthful look.
When counting dermatological and skincare sessions, Gil estimates she has undergone around 400 total procedures, and the number continues to rise. Despite the extensive surgeries, doctors have now advised her to stop making further drastic changes and instead focus on maintenance and wellness.
Gil, however, continues to visit clinics almost daily, receiving herbal and skincare treatments to preserve her results. Speaking candidly, she admitted that while she still sees areas she wishes to improve, her surgeries have made her more confident and emotionally strong.
Her story has sparked intense debate across social media, with some praising her honesty and resilience, while others express concern about the psychological and social pressures that drive such extreme beauty standards in South Korea’s appearance-focused culture.
For Gil, the outcome is personal and empowering. “I’m happy with who I am now,” she said. “This is the version of myself I’ve always wanted to see.”
