"Check Sdeume Prices in Advance"... Government Issues Wedding Service Consumer Damage Prevention Advisory

With the spring wedding peak season underway, the government has issued a warning to soon-to-be-married couples regarding “blind contracts,” as consumer complaints related to wedding services have surged. Notably, disputes over cancellation penalties account for more than 80% of all reported damages, highlighting the need for thorough checks before signing contracts.

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The Fair Trade Commission, Korea Consumer Agency, and the Presidential Committee on Ageing Society and Population Policy announced on the 22nd that they have issued a “Consumer Damage Prevention Advisory for Wedding Services” ahead of the high-demand wedding season in April and May.

According to the Korea Consumer Agency, the number of consumer dispute applications related to wedding services increased by 18.9%, from 905 cases in 2024 to 1,076 cases in 2025. In particular, during the peak months of April and May, the number of complaints surged by 56.0% compared to the same period the previous year, indicating that damages are concentrated among engaged couples during this season.

By type of damage, disputes related to “contract cancellation penalties and withdrawal of subscription” were overwhelmingly dominant, accounting for 95.5%. More specifically, contract cancellation penalties made up 82.4%, followed by contract non-fulfillment at 7.4%, and withdrawal of subscription at 5.7%. This is mainly because many consumers sign contracts without receiving adequate information on additional costs or refund criteria, and then later face excessive cancellation penalties.

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To prevent unfair damages, the government recommends actively utilizing the Consumer Agency’s “Chamgagyeok” website (www.price.go.kr). This site provides regional price information for 67 optional items, including not only meal and venue rental fees, but also studio, dress, and makeup (commonly known as “Sdeume” packages).

It is also advantageous to choose businesses that use the Fair Trade Commission’s “Standard Terms and Conditions for Wedding Planning Services.” These businesses are required to restrict separate charges for essential services (such as photo purchase fees and dress fitting fees) and provide clear information on cancellation penalty standards.

It is important to note that contracts signed at external venues or wedding expos, outside of the wedding hall, can be withdrawn within 14 days without penalty under the Act on Door-to-Door Sales. Even if a business refuses a refund citing a promotional discount, consumers are still protected by law.

With the implementation of the “Wedding Service Price Labeling System,” the government plans to strengthen on-site inspections and impose fines of up to 100 million won on businesses found in violation.

Vice Chairman Kim Jin-o of the Presidential Committee on Ageing Society and Population Policy stated, “We will strive to enhance transparency and fairness in the wedding service market so that young people can reduce their financial concerns and plan for a stable future.”

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