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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 number

  • Police: 112
  • Fire: 119
  • Medical: 1339
  • Travel hotline: 1330

Travel guide

  • South Korea best hotels
  • South Korea day tours
  • South Korea multi-day tours
  • South Korea travel guide by The Soul of Seoul

Travel safety

  • South Korea medical care
  • South Korea natural disasters
  • South Korea transport safety
  • South Korea violent crime, hazards
  • Travel safety gear
Gyeongbokgung Palace

Travel scams in South Korea

Start over
Sungnyemun Restoration Ceremony in 2013

Cult ceremony scam in South Korea

14 1

How 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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Jogyesa Temple

Fake monks in South Korea

5 0

How 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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Myeongdong Shopping Street

Price quote scams in South Korea

4 0

How 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 shop in South Korea

Ginseng, amethyst, seaweed shopping tour in South Korea

4 0

How 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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Namdaemun Market

Fake products in South Korea

3 0

How 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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Jeju Island

Prostitution scam in South Korea

3 0

How 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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Metro in Seoul

Pickpockets in South Korea

3 0

How 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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Drink spiking in South Korea

2 1

How 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 in South Korea

Taxi scams in South Korea

2 1

How 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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Gangseo-Gu

Unlicensed taxis in South Korea

2 0

How 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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Travelscams.org is the largest community built database of tourist scams and key travel safety issues globally, with 1777 travel scams and 1688 user stories shared on 101 countries.

If you ever wondered how it feels like to glide along the Ganges in India’s holiest City or to trek along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, just go, as we have you covered on all pitfalls you may face. About us →

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