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

1. Taxi Scam at Incheon International Airport

Avoid unofficial taxi drivers outside the airport. Always use designated taxis or book in advance.

Unregulated Taxis: These taxis may overcharge or take longer routes.
Designated Taxi Stand: Official taxi stands are easily identified and ensure fair pricing.
Advance Booking: Booking a taxi in advance helps to avoid any unexpected fees.

Avoid sim card booths inside the airport. Buy a SIM card from authorized stores outside the airport.

Unauthorized Booths: These booths may sell fake or overpriced SIM cards.
Authorized Stores: Authorized stores guarantee authentic and affordable SIM cards.
Location: Look for sim card stores near the airport entrances, not inside.

Only hire tour guides from reputable companies. Check reviews and licenses before booking.

Reputable Companies: These companies have a proven track record and adhere to regulations.
Check Reviews: Reviews provide insights into the quality of service offered by the guide.
Licenses: A valid license ensures that the tour guide is authorized to operate in Korea.

Avoid buying goods from unofficial markets. Shop at authorized retailers instead.

Unofficial Markets: These markets sell counterfeit or pirated goods, which are illegal in Korea.
Authorized Retailers: Legitimate retailers sell authentic products and adhere to consumer protection laws.
Consumer Protection Laws: Purchasing from authorized retailers ensures compliance with Korean consumer rights.

Avoid eating street food that looks unusual or unsanitary. Stick to well-known vendors.

Unusual Appearance: Food that appears unhygienic or unusual may contain harmful ingredients.
Well-known Vendors: Established vendors have a reputation for serving safe and tasty food.
Hygiene Standards: Look for clean cooking environments and sanitary handling practices.

Avoid restaurants that don't display prices. Research average costs before dining out.

No Price Display: Restaurants without price lists may charge exorbitant fees.
Average Costs: Researching average costs helps to avoid being overcharged.
Reputable Restaurants: Well-regarded restaurants typically adhere to fair pricing policies.

Avoid overcrowded areas and keep belongings secure. Use a traveler's pouch or bag with a lock.

Overcrowded Areas: Crowded places make it easier for pickpockets to target victims.
Traveler's Pouch or Bag with Lock: These items help secure your belongings and deter potential thieves.
Secure Belongings: Always keep a close eye on your personal items to prevent theft.

Use ATMs located at banks or reputable establishments. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

Location of ATM: ATMs in unsafe locations may have skimmers or cameras installed.
Banks or Reputable Establishments: These ATMs are typically safer and offer better security features.
Covering the Keypad: Covering the keypad prevents potential thieves from observing your PIN.

Research tourist attractions before visiting. Stick to well-known and reputable sites.

Well-known and Reputable Sites: These attractions are more likely to be authentic and enjoyable.
Research: Thorough research helps to avoid wasting time and money on fake attractions.
Avoid Unfamiliar Attractions: Unknown or unpopular tourist spots may be scams or not worth visiting.

Avoid massage parlors that don't display licenses. Opt for well-known establishments instead.

Display of Licenses: Licensed parlors are regulated and ensure a safe and hygienic environment.
Well-known Establishments: Reputable massage parlors have a positive reputation and adhere to standards.
Regulated Massage Services: Legally operating parlors provide quality services without engaging in illegal activities.

Examine Korean currency carefully and compare with authentic notes. Use change machines or shops for smaller denominations.

Examine Korean Currency: Check the security features of each note to ensure its authenticity.
Change Machines or Shops: These locations can provide smaller denominations without the risk of counterfeit bills.
Security Features: Knowing the security features of Korean currency helps to detect counterfeits.

Purchase tickets from authorized vendors or official websites. Avoid ticket resellers or unregulated booths.

Authorized Vendors: These vendors sell legitimate and authentic tickets.
Official Websites: Websites of tourist attractions offer tickets at the official price.
Avoid Unregulated Booths: Unregulated ticket booths may sell fake or overpriced tickets.

Avoid connecting to unsecured wifi networks. Use a VPN or mobile hotspot instead.

Unsecured WiFi Networks: These networks may be set up to steal personal information.
VPN or Mobile Hotspot: A VPN or mobile hotspot provide secure and encrypted connections.
Personal Information Theft: Connecting to unsecured networks puts your personal information at risk.

Research accommodation prices before booking. Use online travel agencies or reputable hotels.

Online Travel Agencies: These platforms offer competitive prices and a variety of options.
Reputable Hotels: Well-established hotels typically provide quality accommodations at fair rates.
Research Prices: Comparing prices ensures that you are not overpaying for accommodation.

Only donate to officially registered charities. Be wary of individuals asking for donations on the street.

Officially Registered Charities: These organizations are transparent and accountable, ensuring your donation reaches its intended destination.
Avoid Street Collectors: Individuals asking for donations on the street may be scammers or unregistered collectors.
Transparency and Accountability: Registered charities are required to provide information about their operations and financial management.