Fair Trade Commission Issues Consumer Warning Over Hotel Booking Site Evajong's 'Muk-twi' Scam

[Asia Economy Sejong=Reporter Dongwoo Lee] The Korea Fair Trade Commission and the Korea Consumer Agency announced on the 11th that consumer damages related to the online hotel reservation company Bonvoyage (Evajong) are rapidly increasing, urging caution.

According to the Fair Trade Commission and the Consumer Agency, a total of 40 consultations related to Bonvoyage were received at the 1372 Consumer Counseling Center over the past six months until the 5th of this month. Fifteen cases were reported within just five days this month.

About 90% of the cases received were complaints related to contracts, such as contract cancellation and penalties (21 cases), and contract non-fulfillment (15 cases).

The company did not remit the advance payments received from consumers to the hotels, citing financial difficulties.

Additionally, this year, the company launched an online "Domestic Hotel Pass" worth approximately 10 million KRW and recently sold "Unlimited Use Passes for 5-Star Hotel Fitness Centers and Leisure Clubs," so related consumer damages are expected to increase.

The Fair Trade Commission and the Consumer Agency advised, "Use of the Bonvoyage site should be approached with caution," and recommended keeping evidence such as recordings, text messages, and certified documents that can prove the business operator's default to prepare for disputes.

Previously, the Fair Trade Commission conducted an on-site investigation of the company. They plan to determine violations of the Electronic Commerce Act and other related laws and cooperate with the police and relevant authorities to take possible measures.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.