Gov't aims to enhance tourism transparency with QR code reporting system

Tourists in Korea will soon be able to fight back against price gouging with a simple scan. The government announced on Tuesday that QR codes will be installed at attractions and festivals nationwide to let visitors report unfair charges on the spot.

 
The Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said they will streamline the existing reporting system and introduce a new QR code-based service to make it easier for tourists to report unfair pricing.

Until now, tourists often faced confusion due to the lack of a unified reporting system, as each region operated its own complaint channels. 

 
Some local governments had their own hotlines, but travelers had to go through separate procedures when moving between areas.

 
Under the new system, the government will integrate the complaint process at the national level and enable travelers to submit reports immediately through QR codes displayed at tourist information centers, guidebooks and posters at major attractions.

The ministries said the service aims to reduce the inconvenience of reporting by phone or website and to improve accessibility so anyone can file a complaint anytime and anywhere.

 
Once a report is submitted, it will be automatically shared between each region’s “area code +120” local government hotline and the Korea Tourism Organization’s “1330” tourist complaint center. The information will then be passed quickly to the relevant local government and authorities for on-site verification and, if necessary, penalties.

 
The government also plans to promote the QR code reporting system both online and offline to ensure it is adopted nationwide. Information about the new system will be included in local tourism brochures and on the Korea Tourism Organization’s online platforms such as Visit Korea.

 
"Price gouging is not simply about high prices but a matter that directly affects the credibility and competitiveness of Korea’s tourism industry," said Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Chae Hwi-young. He added that the government will work with local authorities to ensure that reports lead to "real solutions."

 
"We will build a fair and transparent tourism environment that strengthens visitor trust and supports the sustainable growth of local economies," said Minister of the Interior and Safety Yun Ho-jung.

Source : https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-10-29/national/socialAffairs/Govt-aims-to-enhance-tourism-transparency-with-QR-code-reporting-system/2431313

Comprehension

What new measure is the Korean government introducing to help tourists report unfair prices?
Which two ministries are leading this initiative?
Why was the old reporting system confusing for tourists?
How will the new QR code system make it easier for visitors to report complaints?
Where will tourists be able to find these QR codes?
What happens after a report is submitted through the QR code system?
Why does the government consider price gouging a serious issue?
What are the goals of the new reporting system according to the ministers?

Discussion

Have you ever experienced being overcharged or treated unfairly as a tourist?
How do you think technology like QR codes can make travel experiences safer or easier?
Why do you think some businesses overcharge tourists?
What might happen to Korea’s tourism reputation if price gouging continues?
Do you think this QR code system will really stop unfair pricing? Why or why not?
How can tourists help promote fair and honest tourism?
What other types of problems could QR code systems help solve in tourism?
How important is “trust” when choosing a travel destination?
What can local governments do to make tourists feel welcome and protected?
Would you use a QR code to report a problem while traveling? Why or why not?

Vocabulary

Price gouging – charging unfairly high prices for goods or services.
Attraction – a place people visit for enjoyment or interest, such as a museum or park.
Streamline – to make a process simpler and more efficient.
Complaint – a statement that something is wrong or unfair.
Accessibility – the quality of being easy to reach or use.
Verification – the process of checking that something is true or accurate.
Credibility – the quality of being trusted or believed in.
Sustainable – able to continue over time without causing harm or loss.