The Korea Communications Commission urged users to exercise caution against deceptive sales practices ahead of the pre-order period (Jan. 24-Feb. 3) for Samsung Electronics' new device (Galaxy S25), which is set for official release on the 7th of next month.
This is due to concerns that deceptive practices may increase around the so-called 'hot spots' in telecommunications distribution points, where customers can buy the latest smartphones at reduced prices through online and social media sales channels.
Major victim cases include sales through false and exaggerated advertisements such as 'free' or 'complimentary', misleading explanations that confuse discounts with subsidies, failure to fulfill promises of unofficial rebates (paybacks), and coercion into signing up for certain high-priced plans or additional services.
To prevent user damage caused by such deceptive sales, it is necessary to thoroughly check and understand discount conditions and remaining installment payments when presented with absurdly low purchase prices and to request additional explanations for any unclear aspects.
Users who suffer damages during the device purchase or telecommunications service subscription process can receive necessary assistance through the customer center of their mobile carrier (114) or the Korea Information and Communication Industry Association's mobile phone unfair practices reporting center.
On the same day, the Korea Communications Commission held a meeting with executives from telecommunications companies and manufacturers, chaired by the market investigation chief, to discuss future follow-up measures related to the repeal of the 'Telecommunications Device Distribution Structure Improvement Act' (hereafter referred to as the Device Law).
During the meeting, participants shared necessary matters for fair competition and user protection following the repeal of the Device Law, including improvements in market self-monitoring and the establishment of measures to create a sound device distribution environment, and agreed to cooperate in developing specific plans with the government and industry in the future.
Acting Chairperson Kim Tae-kyu said, "We will swiftly proceed with follow-up measures so that the effects of the repeal of the Device Law can be realized in the market this year, and we will strive to activate competition for subsidies." He also noted, "Additionally, we plan to strengthen market inspections during the new semester and the new device launch period to protect users from damage that may occur during the process of system changes."