Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Hamhŭng, Korea, North

All Topics about Hamhŭng All Cities in Korea, North

1. Counterfeit Currency Scam

Be cautious when exchanging money at unofficial exchange shops. Always compare the bill's security features with genuine notes.

Avoid Unofficial Shops: Always use banks or authorized exchange centers.
Check Security Features: Learn about the security features of North Korean currency to easily spot fakes.
Travel with Backup Funds: Carry a reserve of cash in multiple currencies or traveler's checks.

Bargain for prices at markets and be aware of inflated prices for souvenirs targeted towards tourists.

Bargain Aggressively: Start your bargaining with a lower price to ensure you get the best deal.
Ask Local Prices: Ask local friends or guides for guidance on fair prices before visiting markets.
Beware of Fake Souvenirs: Only purchase souvenirs from reputable shops to avoid low-quality, fake items.

Choose tour guides registered with the government and be wary of unsolicited offers from unknown guides.

Check Registration: Ensure your guide is officially registered with the local tourism authority.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from reputable sources like hotels or embassies.
Stick to Scheduled Itineraries: Avoid letting your guide deviate too far from the planned itinerary without good reason.

Research accommodation prices before arriving and negotiate with hotel owners for better deals.

Compare Prices: Use online travel agencies to compare prices of hotels in the area.
Negotiate with Owners: Speak with hotel owners directly and ask for better rates or discounts.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to ensure a comfortable stay.

Avoid eating street food from unhygienic stalls and always choose busy, well-maintained ones.

Choose Busy Stalls: Street food vendors with a steady stream of customers are likely to be cleaner.
Check Hygiene Standards: Look for food being handled properly and stalls using clean utensils.
Avoid Risky Items: Stick to cooked foods and avoid raw or undercooked items.

Use registered taxis, negotiate prices beforehand, and avoid private cars offering rides.

Use Registered Taxis: Only take official taxi services with clearly marked identification.
Negotiate Prices: Discuss the fare before starting your journey to avoid unexpected charges.
Avoid Private Cars: Refuse offers from private cars, especially those claiming to be taxis.

Hire guides and translators through reputable sources and agree on rates beforehand.

Use Reputable Sources: Book guides or translators from travel agencies, hotels, or embassies.
Agreement on Rates: Discuss and agree on rates before the service begins.
Check Credentials: Request identification or credentials from your guide or translator.

Exchange money at authorized exchange centers and avoid giving large bills.

Use Authorized Centers: Exchange your currency only at banks or official exchange centers.
Avoid Large Bills: Break larger bills into smaller denominations before exchanging.
Check Receipts: Always request a receipt and check it carefully before leaving the counter.

Stay alert in crowded areas and avoid carrying valuable items. If accused, remain calm and cooperative.

Avoid Crowded Areas: Stick to less crowded streets and shopping districts.
Carry Essential Items Only: Limit the amount of valuable items you carry when traveling.
Remain Calm and Cooperative: Stay composed if accused, follow local authorities' instructions, and seek help from embassy or consulate if needed.

Keep belongings secure at all times and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash.

Secure Belongings: Use a money belt, bag with lock, or carry your valuables close to your body.
Avoid Displaying Valuables: Minimize wearing flashy jewelry and carrying large amounts of cash in public.
Stay Aware of Surroundings: Keep an eye on your surroundings and be mindful of potential pickpockets.

Avoid accepting drinks from strangers or leaving your drink unattended at bars.

Avoid Strangers' Drinks: Never accept drinks from people you don't know.
Stay with Trusted Companions: Travel with a trusted companion or friend, especially when visiting bars.
Keep Your Drink in Sight: Never leave your drink unattended at the bar.

Avoid getting into confrontations with locals and follow local laws to minimize the risk.

Respect Local Laws: Follow all local laws and regulations during your stay.
Avoid Confrontations: Stay calm and avoid arguments or confrontations with locals.
Seek Help from Embassy: Contact your embassy or consulate if you are falsely accused of a crime.

Be cautious when donating to charity collectors and only support registered organizations.

Support Registered Organizations: Only donate to officially recognized charities or organizations.
Check Credentials: Request identification or credentials from charity collectors.
Research Before Donating: Take time to research charities before donating to ensure your contributions make a difference.

Avoid offers for escort services and stick with reputable tour guides.

Stay with Reputable Guides: Choose registered and reputable tour guides.
Avoid Escort Services: Never accept offers for escort services from strangers.
Research Your Guide: Learn about your guide before hiring to ensure they are reputable.

Research the festival or event before attending and be cautious of unsolicited offers.

Check Festival Details: Learn about the festival or event schedule, rules, and local customs.
Avoid Unsolicited Offers: Be cautious when accepting gifts or favors from strangers at events.
Stay with Trusted Companions: Travel with a trusted companion during festivals and events for safety.