Dr. K’s Inspiration

My path to founding K by Dr. K started with science.

At MIT, I studied biology and conducted research in stem cells and biomaterials. That experience gave me the scientific and engineering lens to evaluate the cutting-edge cosmetic and regenerative procedures being pioneered in Korea today.

I continued my medical education at Harvard Medical School and clinical training at Harvard hospitals, becoming both a pediatrician and anesthesiologist. I then subspecialized in pain medicine at Stanford, where I also serve as faculty. Through these experiences, I learned how to coordinate care in the most complex medical situations—helping patients navigate between the medical and surgical home models of care.

But I also saw firsthand how fragmented insurance systems and inefficiencies in the U.S. healthcare system leave patients struggling to access timely, affordable care. Even for a busy physician like myself, it was impossible to miss multiple days of work for scattered medical visits and testing in the U.S.—all while facing high out-of-pocket costs due to a high-deductible health plan.

That’s why I’ve long turned to Korea for MY OWN CARE. Each year, I undergo comprehensive health screenings there—completed in just four hours, with clear results and follow-ups—at a fraction of the U.S. cost. Experiencing that level of efficiency, quality, and compassion made me realize: OTHERS DESERVE THIS OPTION TOO.

With K by Dr. K, my goal is to share that same access—helping U.S. patients connect with Korea’s world-class healthcare, whether for advanced aesthetic medicine, preventive health, or complex care. My mission is to give you the best of both worlds: scientific rigor, clinical expertise, and a global standard of care that puts patients first. One patient at a time. Personalized, case by case.

Albert Kwon, M.D.
Co-Founder of K by Dr. K

I co-founded K by Dr. K with a simple goal: to help patients find world-class medical care that truly fits their needs. Too often, healthcare systems lose sight of the patient as a person. I believe good care always begins with understanding what matters most to you; your goals, your values, and your vision for health and wellness.

I am triple board-certified in family medicine, palliative care, and pain medicine. After completing residency at the University of Colorado, I trained at Stanford University, where I pursued fellowships in both palliative medicine and pain medicine. I continue to teach medical residents and fellows at Stanford, sharing my expertise in caring for patients with complex medical needs.

Over the course of my career, I’ve worked in a wide range of settings—from outpatient clinics to state-of-the-art operating rooms—always with a focus on collaborative, team-based care. This broad perspective allows me to evaluate medical scenarios from multiple angles and create personalized treatment strategies.

With K by Dr. K, I bring this experience to help you access exceptional medical services in Korea—care that is high-quality, affordable, and aligned with what matters most to you. My goal is to connect you with the right care abroad so you can live your best life at home.

Alex Sable-Smith, M.D., M.P.H.
Co-Founder of K by Dr. K

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