Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Ulsan, Korea, South

1. Ulsan Grand Park Taxi Scam

Watch out for unofficial taxi drivers at Ulsan Grand Park who may overcharge or take a longer route.

Parking Lot Watch: Always park in designated areas to avoid solicitation.
Authorized Taxis: Only use authorized taxis with clearly visible signs and a taxi meter.
Prepaid Rides: Consider prepaying for your ride to avoid overcharging.

Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs during festivals as there may be counterfeit goods being sold.

Official Merchandise Stores: Buy official merchandise from designated stores or booths.
Brand Authenticity: Check for signs of poor quality and inconsistencies in brand logos.
Warranty or Guarantee: Look for a warranty or guarantee to ensure the item's authenticity.

Donation boxes at temples may have fake monks collecting money. Verify the legitimacy of donation collectors.

Verifying Monk Identity: Check for official temple clothing and ID badges.
Official Donation Boxes: Only use designated donation boxes or envelopes provided by the temple.
Research Temple Reputation: Research the temple's reputation and verify its needs before giving a donation.

Fraudulent Airbnb listings may exist in Ulsan. Verify the property and host before booking.

Verified Host Identity: Check for a verified identity of the host.
Property Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to gauge the quality of the property and host.
Secure Payment Methods: Use secure payment methods offered by Airbnb to protect your personal information.

Some street food vendors in Ulsan may use poor-quality ingredients or unhygienic practices.

Vendor Reputation: Choose reputable and popular street food vendors.
Food Preparation: Observe how the food is prepared and ensure it's cooked thoroughly.
Personal Hygiene: Ensure the vendor practices good personal hygiene when handling your food.

ATMs in Ulsan may be tampered with skimmers to steal your card information.

Secure ATMs: Choose well-lit, busy areas with secure ATMs.
Cover Your Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent camera surveillance.
Monitor Bank Statements: Regularly monitor your bank statements for unauthorized transactions.

Public internet cafes in Ulsan may use keyloggers to steal your login information.

Secure Computers: Choose computers that are not easily accessible or have USB ports covered.
Install Anti-Virus Software: Consider using anti-virus software on public computers to protect your device.
Secure Passwords: Use complex and unique passwords for each account.

Some tour guides in Ulsan may overcharge unsuspecting tourists.

Research Tour Prices: Research the average cost of tours in Ulsan beforehand.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous tour participants to gauge the quality and fairness of the guide.
Negotiate Upfront: Negotiate the price upfront to avoid overcharging.

Be cautious when receiving change as counterfeit money may be used in Ulsan.

Know Your Currency: Familiarize yourself with the appearance of genuine Korean currency.
Feel and Listen for Quality: Counterfeit money may feel different or make noise when moving.
Check Change Carefully: Always check your change carefully, especially for larger denominations.

Street massage therapists in Ulsan may use poor techniques or contaminated oils.

Legitimate Massage Parlors: Choose licensed massage parlors for a safe and sanitary experience.
Sterile Equipment: Ensure the equipment is sterilized before use.
Check Certifications: Look for certifications or licensing from recognized organizations.

Some mobile SIM card vendors in Ulsan may offer overpriced deals.

Research Deal Prices: Research the average cost of mobile SIM cards in Ulsan beforehand.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous customers to gauge the quality and fairness of the vendor.
Negotiate Upfront: Negotiate the price upfront to avoid overpaying.

Some dining establishments in Ulsan may use poor hygiene practices or contaminated ingredients.

Reputable Restaurants: Choose reputable and popular restaurants.
Food Preparation: Observe how the food is prepared and ensure it's cooked thoroughly.
Personal Hygiene: Ensure the staff practices good personal hygiene when handling your food.

Pickpocketing on public transportation is a common issue in Ulsan.

Secure Bags and Wallets: Use bags with zippers or slash-resistant material.
Avoid Distractions: Keep your personal belongings close at hand and avoid distractions.
Stay Aware of Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on potential thieves.

Language barriers can make tourists more vulnerable to scams in Ulsan.

Research Scam Tactics: Research common scam tactics before traveling.
Ask for Help: Ask a trusted local or tour guide for help if you're unsure about a situation.
Stay Alert: Stay alert and trust your instincts when dealing with unfamiliar situations.

Some rental bike companies in Ulsan may charge for damages that were not your fault.

Inspect Rental Equipment: Thoroughly inspect the rental equipment before taking it.
Take Photos of Damage: Take photos of any existing damage on the bike before renting.
Return Equipment in Good Condition: Return the equipment in the same condition as when you received it.