"Beware of Overseas Direct Purchase of 'Mini Air Conditioners' That Don't Blow Cold Air"

Even Without Air Conditioning, Sellers Refuse Cancellation and Returns

There have been repeated cases of air conditioners purchased through overseas shopping malls not working at all, prompting the Korea Consumer Agency to issue a warning.

The Korea Consumer Agency announced on the 18th that from May to July this year, a total of 17 consumer consultations related to overseas direct purchases of air conditioners were received through the International Trade Consumer Portal.

The shopping mall where the damage occurred advertised the product under the name "German Mini Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner," using phrases such as "German construction method and quality assurance" and "instant cooling in summer." However, the actual delivered product did not emit any cold air, and the exact manufacturer or country of origin of the product could not be confirmed.

Additionally, consumers requested returns or refunds citing product defects, but the sellers either refunded only a partial amount or did not respond at all. There were also cases where order cancellations before product delivery were refused.

According to the Consumer Agency, there are 12 shopping mall websites identified as selling the product. The agency stated, "The names and internet addresses (URLs) vary, but it is difficult to verify accurate business information for all of them," and added that some shopping malls displaying business names and locations (Hong Kong) are also uncertain whether they are officially registered businesses.

Consumers were advised to be cautious when purchasing products sold through internet advertisements to prevent damage. They were also advised to avoid transactions if business information is unclear and to check the International Trade Consumer Portal and search engines for any damage cases when using an overseas direct purchase shopping mall for the first time.

The Consumer Agency has requested cooperation from the Hong Kong Consumer Council, a partner organization for international trade consumer damage in Hong Kong, to resolve the damage and verify business information. A representative from the Consumer Agency said, "Consumers who have suffered similar damage should secure materials such as business information and payment details and apply for consultation through the International Trade Consumer Portal."

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