[Hinews] SEOUL, South Korea — On July 17, 2025, Hallym University Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital announced the addition of a third hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) chamber, making it the largest facility of its kind in South Korea. With the new chamber, the hospital can now treat up to 36 patients at once, significantly boosting its capacity to manage critical conditions.

Dedicated to outpatient care, the third chamber accommodates up to 11 patients and includes a two-person compartment for medical staff to ensure safe, efficient treatment. Since launching its HBOT center with two chambers in July 2023, the hospital has conducted over 8,400 treatments. Rising demand prompted the addition of the third unit.

Hallym University Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital completes South Korea’s largest hyperbaric oxygen therapy system. (Photo courtesy of Hallym University Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital)
Hallym University Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital completes South Korea’s largest hyperbaric oxygen therapy system. (Photo courtesy of Hallym University Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital)

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy—which delivers pure oxygen at 2 to 4 times normal atmospheric pressure—has been proven effective for treating carbon monoxide poisoning, decompression sickness, diabetic foot ulcers, and sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Covered by South Korea’s national health insurance, the therapy facilitates healing by allowing oxygen to dissolve directly into plasma, promoting tissue repair and regeneration. It also supports recovery from burns and respiratory injuries, proving invaluable during large-scale emergencies such as wildfires. During treatment, medical staff monitor patients in real-time via internal cameras to ensure safety and efficacy. The hospital’s expanded facility underscores its commitment to managing complex medical conditions and emergency situations.

Dr. Joon Hur, president of the hospital, emphasized the therapy’s importance: “Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is essential for treating burns and refractory tissue necrosis, and it serves a critical function in disaster response. This new chamber enables us to deliver timely care to more patients, ultimately strengthening national healthcare resilience.”

저작권자 © Hinews 무단전재 및 재배포 금지
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