Gangnam JS Hospital is a specialized orthopedic and regenerative medicine hospital in Seoul, South Korea, internationally recognized for its work in cord blood stem cell transplantation for degenerative knee arthritis and cartilage damage. With over 3,000 cord blood stem cell surgeries performed and a strong track record in complex joint cases, the hospital has become a reference center for patients seeking joint-preserving alternatives to artificial joint replacement.
Gangnam JS Hospital was created with a clear mission: to overcome the limitations of conventional arthritis treatments and offer patients a true regenerative option through cord blood stem cell transplantation. Since its first high-profile arthritis stem cell surgery in 2013, the hospital has focused on cartilage regeneration, especially for patients with degenerative arthritis, cartilage defects, and sports-related knee injuries.
Over the years, the hospital has: Developed extensive clinical experience with degenerative knee arthritis stem cell surgery; Performed thousands of cord blood stem cell transplant procedures for cartilage regeneration; Published SCI(E) papers documenting outcomes, MRI results, and long-term follow-up; Gained global recognition for its work in knee cartilage regeneration using cord blood stem cells; Participated in international medical missions and collaborations, including the UAE;
Patients travel from China, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Middle East, and many other regions to receive care at Gangnam JS Hospital, attracted by its focus on joint-preserving surgery, cartilage regeneration, and specialized sports medicine expertise.
Gangnam JS Hospital stands apart as a world authority in knee arthritis stem cell treatment, continuously redefining what modern regenerative medicine can achieve. With more than 3,000 successful cord blood stem cell surgeries, it holds the highest number of procedures ever performed worldwide, offering unparalleled expertise for patients suffering from degenerative arthritis, cartilage defects, and sports-related joint injuries.
Backed by decades of research, clinical trials, and publications in prestigious SCI(E)-indexed journals, Gangnam JS Hospital has proven that cord blood stem cell transplantation is a revolutionary alternative to traditional joint replacement. Instead of masking symptoms, the treatment regenerates real cartilage, restoring mobility, reducing pain, and helping patients return to full daily activity — even sports — with outcomes that are documented and clinically verified.
Click to Download Studies Published on the results of stem cell
transplantation for degenerative arthritis
Gangnam JS Hospital emphasizes that cord blood stem cell transplantation and artificial joint replacement serve different goals. Cartilage regeneration aims to preserve the natural joint, while artificial joint surgery replaces it.
General Comparison:
The hospital’s philosophy is to maximize preservation of natural structures whenever possible, reserving artificial implants for cases where joint-preserving options are no longer feasible.
Many patients with mid- to late-stage arthritis also present with O-leg (bowleg), X-leg, or D-shaped leg deformities, caused by uneven wear of the knee joint surfaces.
Why alignment matters:
For many patients, Gangnam JS Hospital combines cord blood stem cell transplantation with bowleg correction surgery to optimize long-term outcomes. Correcting alignment helps:
This combined approach is particularly effective for patients with degenerative arthritis and structural deformity.
While many institutions highlight “minimal incision” techniques, Gangnam JS Hospital emphasizes the importance of accurately identifying and accessing the damaged cartilage area.
Gangnam JS Hospital’s approach:
The goal is not simply a small incision to the naked eye, but exact targeting of the injured cartilage to maximize regeneration and long-term outcomes.
Gangnam JS Hospital also provides specialized care for sports injuries, guided by the experience of physicians who have served as team doctors for the Korean national football team at multiple international events.
Conditions treated include:
Sports injury diagnostics:
Treatment and rehabilitation options:
The objective is rapid tissue recovery, strengthening of joint-supporting structures, and safe return to daily life and sports, while minimizing recurrence
Gangnam JS Hospital’s history reflects the career-long dedication of Dr. Jun-Seop Song and his team to sports medicine, orthopedics, and cartilage regeneration.
Key milestones include:
Gangnam JS Hospital provides modern inpatient facilities for patients undergoing surgery and rehabilitation.
At the center of Gangnam JS Hospital is Dr. Jun-Seop Song, President and CEO, a physician with extensive experience in sports medicine, orthopedics, and regenerative therapy.
Dr. Jun-Seop Song:
The broader medical team includes:
Together, they share a common commitment: to help patients regain movement, reduce pain, and return to the activities they love through scientifically grounded, patient-centered care.
Professional Memberships
Full Member, Korean Society of Radiology
Full Member, Korean Society of Musculoskeletal Radiology
Lifetime Member, Korean Society of Ultrasound in Medicine
Bachelor’s Degree, Yonsei University
Master of Medical Science, Korea University College of Medicine
Internship, Severance Hospital
Residency in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Korea University Anam Hospital
Clinical Instructor (Outpatient), Korea University Anam Hospital
Clinical Fellow / Staff Physician, Samsung Medical Center
Professional Memberships
Member, Korean Society of Anesthesiologists
Member, Korean Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine
Member, Korean Society of Airway Management
Gangnam JS Hospital welcomes international patients seeking advanced cartilage regeneration and stem cell treatment for knee arthritis and sports-related injuries.
International support includes:
Visa & Entry:
Requirements for entering South Korea vary by nationality. Many patients from North America, Europe, and parts of Asia can enter visa-free for short stays, or may use K-ETA or visa channels where applicable. Patients should always confirm current entry regulations with the nearest Korean embassy, consulate, or official government website.
Patients are advised to carry:
Allowing a few extra days before and after surgery helps accommodate pre-operative assessments, rehabilitation sessions, and fit-to-fly clearance.
Exceptional Care and Remarkable Efficiency at Gangnam JS Hospital! After struggling with chronic neck and shoulder pain in the U.S. for an extended period, I decided to seek treatment during my visit to Korea and chose Gangnam JS Hospital. I am extremely pleased with my decision. From the moment I arrived, the doctor took considerable time to thoroughly explain my condition, the underlying causes of my pain, and a clearly outlined treatment plan. The depth of the consultation gave me a tremendous sense of confidence and reassurance—something I had not experienced in previous medical visits. What impressed me most was the remarkable accessibility and efficiency of their medical system. I was able to complete my MRI scan, physician consultation, and treatment all within a single hour. This level of streamlined, integrated care is truly exceptional and stands in stark contrast to the long wait times and fragmented appointments I had grown accustomed to. The staff were warm, attentive, and professional throughout my entire visit, and the hospital's overall operations reflected a high standard of organization and expertise. For anyone considering treatment for neck, shoulder, or spine-related conditions—whether local or traveling from abroad—I wholeheartedly recommend Gangnam JS Hospital. The combination of expert medical care, clear communication, and efficient service made my experience truly outstanding
I chose Gangnam JS Hospital after a knee injury, when I needed a complex surgery to fully restore the function of my knee. This involved not only an ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) replacement, but also stem cell treatment to regenerate cartilage in two small areas of my knee that had been damaged during the five months I continued training with a torn ACL (on my Swedish doctor’s advice…😏) And I had a truly excellent experience at this hospital, everything was beyond my expectations. My room was spacious, well-equipped and very comfortable. The food was simply delicious and varied. Their rehabilitation program is very effective. Manual and physical therapy were just two of the five treatments I received every day. As a result, I was almost completely pain-free just two weeks after my surgery… I’m so grateful for all that exceptional care I received from the entire hospital team! They were and still are incredibly attentive and responsive, they stood by my side day and night, providing me with constant support. That made my recovery smoother, easier and much more comfortable than I could ever have expected or imagined. Thank you for everything, my dear friends 🙌🏻♥️!
I found Gangnam JS Hospital in South Korea through MyMediTour after spending years dealing with chronic knee pain and being told in the U.S. that my only real option was a major knee replacement. From the very beginning, the experience felt completely different. MyMediTour connected me with Gangnam JS Hospital and helped coordinate every step of the process, making what could have been an overwhelming experience feel smooth and organized. The hospital itself exceeded every expectation I had. The level of technology, professionalism, and attention to detail was honestly incredible. I underwent a stem cell-based cartilage regeneration procedure on my knee, and what impressed me most was how comprehensive the entire treatment and recovery process was. This wasn’t just “do the surgery and send you home.” The medical team created a full recovery protocol that included rehabilitation, monitoring, therapy, mobility support, and continuous follow-up care focused on maximizing healing and long-term results. One of the biggest reasons my experience was so positive was Kaiser, the international coordinator assigned to my case. Kaiser was absolutely outstanding throughout the entire journey. He was responsive, patient, professional, and genuinely caring from day one. Traveling abroad for surgery can feel intimidating, especially when dealing with pain and uncertainty, but Kaiser made everything feel manageable. He helped coordinate appointments, answered countless questions, assisted with communication, checked in regularly during recovery, and made sure I always felt supported. It honestly felt like having someone personally advocate for me every step of the way. The doctors and rehabilitation staff at Gangnam JS Hospital were phenomenal. They took time to explain the science behind the stem cell treatment, what to expect during recovery, and how the rehabilitation protocols would help regenerate cartilage and improve long-term joint function. I never felt rushed or treated like just another patient. I’m still going through recovery, but I can already feel meaningful improvements in stability, pain reduction, and mobility. More importantly, I feel hopeful again. Choosing Gangnam JS Hospital through MyMediTour was one of the best healthcare decisions I’ve ever made, and I would absolutely recommend both the hospital and Kaiser to anyone considering advanced orthopedic or regenerative treatments abroad.
I am extremely pleased to have found Gangnam JS Hospital. I underwent their stem cell-based cartilage regeneration and leg realignment procedures for my right knee a little more than a year ago. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made..I came back this year to remove the plate and screws from the leg realignment and continue my journey back to athletic mobility. All of my surgeries were very successful and I have experienced minimal pain during most of my post surgical recovery and therapy, Both Dr. Song, cartilage regeneration surgery, and Dr. Kim, realignment surgery, really care about their patients and are great. We reviewed my post surgical images and my cartilage regeneration looks amazing after just one year. I highly recommend this treatment. All of Gangnam JS doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and remaining staff are very attentive, professional, and very kind. Most of the staff can, at least, speak Korean and English so communication was not too difficult. The hospital also retains an exceptional medical translation team led by Kaiser that can assist with English, Russian, and probably several other languages. Prior to my surgeries, I was struggling with mobility and was diagnosed with degenerative arthritis in my right knee. I received a cortisone shot, a gel injection, and had many sessions of physical therapy to relieve pain and to strengthen the muscles around my knee. I was told that the only option I had for improvement was to continue this treatment until I received a knee replacement. I was not interested in a knee replacement at 52 years old so I opted to undergo this alternative treatment. I am overloaded pleased with my decision and outcome and advocate for this treatment.
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