The city has announced a reporting system to prevent exploitation of visitors.
President Lee Jae-myung has promised a firm response to unfair practices.
As excitement builds for the upcoming BTS concert in Busan, concerns over exorbitant accommodation charges have emerged. In response, the city is set to implement a reporting system for overpricing, ensuring protections for visitors. Scheduled for June 12 and 13, the BTS concerts have prompted the city to take proactive steps to address potential exploitation.
The Busan city government has introduced a QR code system for domestic and foreign tourists to report unfair charges, which will be communicated through the Korea Tourism Organization to relevant authorities. Moving forward, on-site inspections for reported accommodation providers will be carried out, with unjust pricing practices potentially impacting hotel ratings.
President Lee Jae-myung addressed the issue on his social media account on January 16, calling out the unethical practices at local accommodations and promising decisive actions. He emphasized that such egregious behaviors must be eradicated, stating that losses from unfair profits must be outweighed.
The international popularity of BTS significantly boosts Busan's economy, bringing attention to various actions taken by local small businesses. The sudden price hikes in the accommodation sector may be interpreted as attempts to meet demand; however, such practices often lead to detrimental experiences for tourists. Consequently, the city is taking swift action to strengthen detection and punishment for unfair practices.
Moreover, this situation highlights how BTS as an artist does not merely appear for performances, but also interacts with the community, creating substantial economic impact. The fandom of BTS spans worldwide, offering hope that these events will yield positive effects on the local economy. However, the tragic aftermath left by such incidents cannot be overlooked.
President Lee Jae-myung's comments reflect a keen awareness of local economic policies and illustrate a willingness to listen to public concerns. The government's stringent response is expected to play a crucial role in maintaining trust between local residents and tourists in the long run.
This article is KOSTAR’s reinterpretation of a story originally reported by TVDaily.
Photo: Big Hit Music
