[Hinews] SEOUL, South Korea — Hallym University Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital announced on July 17, 2025, the addition of a third hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) chamber, establishing the largest such facility in South Korea. The new chamber enables the hospital to treat up to 36 patients simultaneously, significantly enhancing its capacity to address critical medical conditions.

The third chamber, dedicated to outpatient care, can accommodate up to 11 patients and includes a separate two-person compartment for medical staff, ensuring safe and efficient treatment delivery. The hospital launched its HBOT center in July 2023 with two chambers and has since performed 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 involves breathing high-purity oxygen at pressures of 2 to 4 atmospheres absolute, is proven effective for conditions such as 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 plays a vital role in aiding recovery from burns and respiratory injuries, proving critical in large-scale emergencies like 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 allows us to provide timely care to more patients, contributing to the nation’s health.”

저작권자 © Hinews 무단전재 및 재배포 금지
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