'Airfare, Parcel Delivery, and Gift Certificate' Consumer Damage Warning Issued

[Asia Economy Reporter Eunju Lee] The Fair Trade Commission has issued a consumer damage advisory regarding airline tickets, parcel delivery, and gift certificates in anticipation of the Lunar New Year holiday.

On the 15th, the Fair Trade Commission stated, "As consumer usage increases during the Lunar New Year holiday period, special caution is required for airline tickets, parcel delivery, and gift certificates, which have caused damages every year."

This Lunar New Year is expected to see a significant increase in demand for overseas travel, so when purchasing airline tickets, consumers should check the entry and exit policies of their travel destinations in advance and carefully review cancellation fees and refund regulations. Caution is needed against excessive penalties imposed when canceling airline tickets purchased through e-commerce, or cases where airlines refuse to provide compensation despite flight delays or cancellations disrupting travel schedules.

Additionally, when sending parcels, consumers should consider times of high volume when requesting delivery and keep proof such as tracking numbers and purchase receipts until delivery is completed. When gifting gift certificates, it is advisable to avoid places that induce cash payments at excessively low prices or purchases through personal transactions. If receiving mobile gift certificates issued through business-to-business transactions as gifts, be aware that they may have short validity periods and that extensions or refunds may not be possible.

The Fair Trade Commission and the Consumer Agency have provided consumers with examples of damages and precautions, urging vigilance to prevent similar harm. In case of damage, consumers can seek consultation or damage relief through 'Consumer24' or the '1372 Consumer Counseling Center.'

After the government announced the exemption from self-quarantine for overseas arrivals, flight ticket reservations have increased. On the 1st, the departure hall of Terminal 1 at Incheon International Airport was bustling with citizens preparing to travel abroad. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@