Age-Related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis) Care in Gangnam, Seoul
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD · Board-certified otolaryngologist · Former professor, Yonsei & Ajou University · Consultations in English
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Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) is the gradual, usually symmetrical decline in hearing that occurs with aging, mainly affecting high-pitched sounds and understanding speech in noise. It is permanent but very manageable. A hearing test confirms the diagnosis, and hearing aids and communication strategies are the main treatments.
What is age-related hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, is a slowly progressive sensorineural hearing loss that affects both ears, usually to a similar degree. It results from gradual changes in the inner ear, including loss of cochlear hair cells, changes in the blood supply of the cochlea and the hearing nerve, and reduced processing speed in the brain's auditory pathways.
It typically begins in middle age and becomes more common with each decade. Many people adapt so gradually that they underestimate how much they are missing.
Symptoms
- Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, such as doorbells, phone alerts and women's or children's voices
- Speech that sounds mumbled, particularly consonants like "s," "f" and "th"
- Trouble following conversation in restaurants or group settings
- Needing higher TV volume than others prefer
- Tinnitus in one or both ears
Causes and risk factors
- Natural aging of the inner ear
- Lifetime noise exposure, which adds to age-related changes
- Genetics and family history
- Cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure and smoking
- Certain medications that can affect the inner ear
How it's diagnosed at our Gangnam clinic
Dr. Kim first checks the ear canals and eardrums, because earwax buildup, which becomes more common with age, can add a conductive component that is easily corrected. A hearing test with pure-tone and speech audiometry shows the typical sloping high-frequency pattern and measures how well you understand words. Tympanometry confirms normal middle ear function. Uneven loss between the ears, or a rapid change, prompts further investigation rather than being attributed to age alone.
Treatment options
Hearing aids
Modern hearing aids amplify the frequencies you have lost and can reduce background noise. Using them early, when loss begins to affect daily life, generally makes adaptation easier. Dr. Kim can explain your audiogram and whether a hearing aid fitting is worth considering.
Other support
- Communication strategies: face the speaker, reduce background noise, ask people to speak clearly rather than loudly
- Assistive devices: TV streamers, captioning and amplified phones
- Protecting remaining hearing from noise
- Managing blood pressure, diabetes and smoking
- Referral for cochlear implant assessment in severe to profound loss
Why treat it?
Untreated hearing loss is associated with social isolation, depression and a higher risk of cognitive decline. Addressing it helps maintain communication, confidence and safety.
When to see an ENT
Book a hearing check if family members comment on your hearing or you find conversation tiring. See an ENT promptly for sudden hearing loss, hearing loss in only one ear, ear pain or discharge, or hearing loss with dizziness, as these are not typical of presbycusis.
Seeing Dr. Kim in English
Many long-term expats and visiting parents in Seoul want a clear explanation of their hearing results. Dr. Kim, a former Yonsei and Ajou university professor, treats all ear, nose and throat conditions alongside his rhinology subspecialty and explains your audiogram in English. Directions are on our location and hours page.
Frequently asked questions
At what age does hearing loss usually start?
Age-related changes often begin in middle age, and hearing loss becomes increasingly common after 60. The rate varies widely depending on genetics, noise exposure and general health. A baseline hearing test is helpful if you notice changes.
Can age-related hearing loss be cured?
It cannot be reversed, but it can be managed very effectively. Hearing aids, communication strategies and assistive devices restore much of the ability to follow conversation. Protecting your ears from noise helps preserve the hearing you have.
Can I get a hearing test in English in Seoul?
Yes. At Gangnam Yonsei ENT, Dr. Kim explains the hearing test and your results in English. You can request a copy of your records and an English medical certificate if you need them for insurance or your home doctor.
Your doctor
Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD
Board-certified otolaryngologist (ENT). Former clinical assistant professor at Yonsei University and assistant professor at Ajou University School of Medicine. Nose & sinus subspecialist who treats all ear, nose and throat conditions.
Consultations in English. Guide for international patients →
Visit us in Gangnam
2F HS Tower, 703 Seolleung-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Gangnam-gu Office Station (Line 7 / Suin-Bundang), Exit 3-1
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9:00–19:00
Wed 14:00–19:00 · Sat 9:00–14:00
Closed Sundays & public holidays
This page is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis. Symptoms differ between people — please see a doctor for an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.