146 Cases of Public Official Impersonation Reported in the Province
Call for Measures to Prevent Losses Among Small Business Owners
Jeongsoo Kim, a Gangwon Provincial Assembly Member (Cheorwon 1), emphasized the need for proactive measures at both the provincial and municipal levels, highlighting that as of the end of November this year, there have been 146 cases of impersonation involving officials from Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province and its cities and counties.
According to materials submitted to Assembly Member Jeongsoo Kim by Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, as of November 2025, there have been a total of 146 reported cases of impersonation of public officials, with 18 of these cases resulting in actual damages.
The impersonation methods mostly involved sending forged business card images via text message, then requesting proxy purchases of goods or advance purchases of construction materials.
Assembly Member Jeongsoo Kim pointed out, "At a time when the local economy is struggling, impersonating highly trusted administrative agencies is causing not only financial losses but also a deep sense of loss among residents and small business owners," adding, "This is a very concerning issue as it can seriously undermine trust in administrative institutions."
He further emphasized, "Although the province and local governments have already issued press releases and conducted preventive publicity activities, more continuous and repetitive preventive measures are needed, such as sending text notifications and official documents to local businesses."
Assembly Member Jeongsoo Kim also stated, "Public officials never request proxy purchases for personal reasons under any circumstances," urging, "If residents or small business owners receive suspicious contacts, they must first verify with the relevant administrative agency."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
