S. Korea Boosts Medical Equipment Production by 11.8% to 7.3-T Won in 2019

South Korea's production of medical equipment and related materials went up to 7.3 trillion won in 2019, 11.8 percent higher than the previous year.

Dental implants, the top product for the third straight year, accounted for 1.4 trillion won.

Ultrasound diagnostic machines were second and dermal fillers came it at third.

There is a high demand for dental care products due to aging with people 65 years or older, accounting for 14.2 percent of South Korea's population in 2018.

The inclusion of dental treatment under public health insurance made it less expensive, contributing to the increased demand.

Exportation of medical equipment and materials surged 8.9 percent on-year to 4.3 trillion won, with ultrasound machines the top item.

China was the top export destination with 715 billion won, the United States came in second with 676 billion won, and followed by Germany with 276 billion won.

Meanwhile, importations went up 13.3 percent to 4.8 trillion won, with soft contact lens being the No. 1 import product.