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South Korea
12 scams
South Korea is known for its mix of old and new which can be found in traditional buildings like inns and spas amidst cutting edge cities like Seoul.
The country is also very safe to visit, though there are some tourist target scams to watch out for.
Note: vast majority of trips are trouble free and there is no need to be paranoid. That said, it always pays to be aware, careful, and prepared.
Emergency numbers
- Police: 112
- Fire: 119
- Medical: 1339
- Travel hotline: 1330
Travel resources
Cult ceremony scam in South Korea
11 1How it works: Situation: This is Korea’s version of China’s teahouse scam. Version 1: An old lady and her daughter ask if you have had a relative who passed away…
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Fake monks in South Korea
5 0How it works: In return for blessings or supposedly free “lucky charms” (e.g. amulets), these fake monks will then ask you for a donation. They could also show you a…
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Price quote scams in South Korea
4 0How it works: Situation: in 2012, the Chosun IIbo (news organization) investigated and exposed blatant overcharging practices at pojangmachas (covered street carts). It was a nationwide story and spurred action…
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Ginseng, amethyst, seaweed shopping tour in South Korea
4 0How it works: While ginseng and raisin extract are well-known Korean products, if you see such items included as part of your tour itinerary, be wary. You will likely end…
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Pickpockets in South Korea
3 0How it works: They work in a gang – one onlooker, one blocks, pushes, distracts, or engages you, one grabs and the final hides the loot under a cover (e.g….
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Fake products in South Korea
3 0How it works: There are fake electronics (easy to tell) and fake designer products (some not so easy to tell) peddled. There was even a case of fake cosmetics sold…
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Prostitution scam in South Korea
2 0How it works: Situation: as reported by the Jeju Island district police, this scam seeks to extort money from tourists seeking sex with teenage girls. Opening: these teenage girls recruit…
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Snatch thefts in South Korea
2 0How it works: Vehicle: thefts of motorbikes or bicycles. Bike/moped: riding past with a pillion rider doing the snatch. Public space, bar, restaurant, market: stealing unattended bags/valuables on the chair,…
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Drink spiking in South Korea
2 1How it works: Situation: at nightclubs and bars, there have been reports of drugged drinks and sometimes, bar owners are in on the scam too. Example 1: in 2017, three…
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Taxi scams in South Korea
2 1How it works: Situation: most are honest and authorities have cracked down on overcharging, though there are still some rogue ones: Version 1: charging an inflated flat fare – usually…
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Unlicensed taxis in South Korea
2 0How it works: Version 1: charging a flat rate that is much higher than it would be in a metered taxi. Version 2: short-changing passengers who are unfamiliar with the…
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Vacation apartment scam in South Korea
1 0How it works: In late 2018, a Malaysian man was scammed over USD $1,000 after falling for this. A couple of months prior to his visit, he was requested by…
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