"Guide Dogs Are Not Allowed Because They Are Dangerous": Discrimination Against a Visually Impaired Anchor at a Daiso Store

There is controversy over a Daiso store in Gyeongju, Gyeongbuk, blocking the entry of a guide dog accompanying a visually impaired person. According to current law, guide dogs for the visually impaired are allowed to enter public transportation, public places, food service establishments, and any other locations.

A Daiso store in Gyeongju, Gyeongbuk is causing controversy for blocking the entry of a guide dog for the visually impaired. YouTube channel Wuryeong's Udio capture

Huh Woo-ryeong, a KBS disabled anchor and YouTuber, posted a video titled "What did I just hear? An unexpected situation experienced in Gyeongju... but it’s not all that difficult" on her YouTube channel on the 13th. In the video, Huh set out on a trip to Gyeongju with her guide dog, Hayan.

While enjoying the trip visiting tourist attractions, markets, and restaurants, Huh stopped by a Daiso store briefly to buy some necessary items. However, the store employee blocked the guide dog’s entry citing safety reasons. When Huh asked, "Does safety have anything to do with guide dog entry?" the employee replied, "We have to consider the safety of other customers as well." The employee continued to refuse entry, saying, "There are many items here," and "I’m worried about tripping."

Huh explained again, "We go to other Daiso stores. Other guide dogs can come here too," and "We decide on safety. There is absolutely no risk of tripping here," but the employee persisted in refusing entry, saying, "I’m worried you might trip or fall." Huh eventually said, "I quickly bought the items and left right away."

A Daiso store in Gyeongju, Gyeongbuk is causing controversy for blocking the entry of a guide dog for the visually impaired. YouTube channel Wuryeong's Udio capture

Netizens who saw this commented, "Why block what is legally specified?" "After watching this video, I submitted a service improvement request on the Daiso website," "I hope Daiso provides training to employees at all branches," and "I want to believe the employee didn’t know." One netizen wrote, "I filed a complaint with Daiso and received a call from the person in charge today," adding, "They said they will take appropriate measures."

Article 40 of the Disabled Welfare Act stipulates that assistance dogs for the disabled must not be refused entry without just cause in public transportation, public places, lodging facilities, food service establishments, and so on. Violations may result in a fine of up to 3 million won. Even in places where pets are generally not allowed, such as national and public arboretums, assistance dogs for the disabled are exceptionally permitted entry, and airlines also provide special accommodations for assistance dogs.