“110,000 Won for a trip to Seongsan Ilchulbong?” Illegal transport of Chinese tourists continues in Jeju

Three Chinese Nationals Caught… “Beware, No Refunds or Protection”,

[Jeju=Newis] Unrelated to the article, a photo by Jeju Autonomous Police showing the apprehension of illegal paid transport activities. (Photo provided by Jeju Autonomous Police) ,

‘[Jeju=Newis] Reporter Oh Young-jae: Illegal operations targeting Chinese tourists have been repeatedly uncovered in Jeju.’,

The Jeju Autonomous Police announced on the 18th that they have caught three Chinese nationals, including a person referred to as A (in their 30s), on suspicion of violating the Tourism Promotion Act.’,

According to the autonomous police, A was caught on the 20th of last month for illegally transporting 10 Chinese tourists in a van for 110,000 won from a hotel in Jeju City to Seongsan Ilchulbong in Seogwipo City.’,

At the time of being caught, A denied any monetary transactions, claiming they were friends, but admitted to the violation when the tourists presented payment records from a travel platform.’,

B (in their 30s) is accused of transporting five Chinese tourists in a van for a total of 100,000 won from a hotel in Jeju City on the 4th of this month.’,

B claimed to the autonomous police that they were preparing for a tour guide certification and provided simple conveniences to the tourists they met through Chinese social media. Upon being questioned further, B admitted to the illegal operation.’,

C (in their 40s) was caught on the 10th of this month for transporting nine Chinese tourists to a tourist site in Jocheon-eup, Jeju City, in exchange for 900 yuan (approximately 170,000 won).’,

C insisted it was a free service provided as a favor to an acquaintance. However, it turned out to be an illegal business using a private car when Chinese tourists revealed they made payments through a travel platform.’,

The Jeju Autonomous Police, which is cracking down on illegal tourist operations, has uncovered a total of 37 cases this year, including ▲ 4 cases of unregistered travel businesses, ▲ 24 cases of paid transport activities, and ▲ 7 cases of unqualified guides.’,

“In case of apprehension for illegal tourist operations, one could face up to 3 years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million won.”,

Lee Cheol-woo, head of the Tourism Police Division of the Jeju Autonomous Police, stated, “Some operators are continuing illegal operations for short-term profits, greatly damaging the order of the legitimate tourism market and exposing tourists to risks without refunds or legal protection,” and emphasized, “We will continue to strengthen the crackdown to protect the Jeju tourism industry and ensure the safety of tourists.”