LikeWise Galaxy S23 series compensation. /Courtesy of LikeWise capture

Samsung Electronics' used smartphone compensation program, 'Galaxy Simple Compensation', which has been operating since the 14th, is amid controversy over low compensation prices. Galaxy Simple Compensation is a program that allows users to sell Galaxy smartphones on Samsung.com at any time of the year without needing to purchase a new product.

According to Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Simple Compensation website on the 15th, a Galaxy S23 can receive compensation of up to 331,000 won, while the Galaxy S23 Plus can receive up to 394,000 won. The compensation amount for the same lineup's Ultra model is 599,000 won.

Samsung Electronics noted that recovered products are categorized into three grades: Excellent, Good, and Recycle, based on their condition, and the maximum compensation amount displayed on the site pertains to the highest capacity model receiving the Excellent grade.

This level of compensation is less by more than 200,000 won when compared to the prices on used phone transaction platforms like 'Minpith' or second-hand marketplaces such as Carrot and Jungonara.

As of the previous day, if the Galaxy S23 standard model with 512GB is evaluated as grade A on Minpith, it can receive 435,000 won, while the same capacity S23 Plus model can receive 525,000 won. Carrot is also selling the Galaxy S23 standard model in the 400,000 won range and the Galaxy S23 Plus model in the 500,000 to 600,000 won range. The average price on Jungonara is similar.

Comments such as 'I thought the expense report was incorrectly stated,' and 'Why is this compensation?' are found on related posts within the Samsung Members community. Complaints have also arisen in online cafes frequented by Samsung users, stating, 'Even if the market price has fallen, this is too much,' and 'I will not use this.'

A Likewise representative said, 'The simple compensation program operated in collaboration with Samsung is aimed at providing favorable compensation to as many customers as possible,' adding, 'We aim to establish a program that provides practical help to customers.'