The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on the 2nd that it has introduced a new survey system for foreign tourists to report inconveniences experienced while using taxis via QR (Quick Response) codes. This is aimed at eradicating illegal business practices, such as excessive charges and refusal of service, targeting foreigners.
The survey introduced by the Seoul Metropolitan Government is business card-sized. The card features a photograph of Seoul's tourist attractions as a background with a QR code inserted. The survey is available in English, Chinese, and Japanese. Since the 19th of last month, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has been distributing these business card-sized surveys to foreigners at international departure lounges in Incheon International Airport and Gimpo International Airport.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to compare the information entered by foreign tourists with vehicle information to verify any illegal activities by taxis.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government has been cracking down on illegal taxi operations targeting foreign tourists for the past ten years since 2015. However, 345 violations were reported last year, indicating that these practices continue to occur. As of the end of May this year, 143 violations have been detected. The main types of violations include unfair charges and failure to use meters. If these unlawful activities are identified, administrative penalties could include fines, penalty surcharges, business suspension, or revocation of licenses.
Yeojangkwon, head of the Transportation Division of the Seoul Metropolitan Government, said, "The convenience of taxi use for foreigners is directly linked to tourist satisfaction, so we will do our best to collect feedback conveniently and implement effective enforcement."