Scams Targeting Foreigners in South Korea: How to Stay Safe


Scams Targeting Foreigners in South Korea: How to Stay Safe



By Majella P. Pagayon

South Korea’s rapid technological advancements and rich cultural landscape make it a desirable destination for foreigners. However, along with its many benefits, non-locals are increasingly becoming targets of scams. Ms. Eva, a volunteer worker at the Eumseong Center for Foreigners, has reported numerous cases where unsuspecting foreigners have fallen victim to fraud. Understanding these schemes can help prevent financial loss and legal troubles.

Common Scams Targeting Foreigners

1. Job Scams on Social Media

Many foreigners searching for jobs in South Korea fall prey to fraudulent job postings on platforms like Facebook. Scammers use fake accounts to advertise high-paying positions that lead to financial losses or identity theft.

How to Avoid This Scam:

  • Verify job offers through official company websites.
  • Contact the employer directly to confirm job legitimacy.
  • Be cautious of job listings that require upfront payments or personal information.

2. The “Good Samaritan” Scam

A deceptive scam involves a Korean woman pretending to slip and fall in public. When a foreigner assists her, she falsely accuses them of harassment or assault. One such case involved a Filipino national who was nearly arrested for a crime he didn’t commit until another Filipino intervened.

How to Protect Yourself:

  • If involved in such a situation, remain calm and gather evidence, such as photos or videos.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate immediately.
  • Avoid unnecessary physical contact when helping strangers in public.

3. Phone and Personal Belongings Scam

Scammers often ask foreigners to lend their phones or belongings under false pretenses. In one reported case, an elderly Korean man borrowed a Filipino national’s phone. Moments later, the foreigner received suspicious messages asking for bank account information.

How to Stay Safe:

  • Never lend personal belongings to strangers, especially mobile phones.
  • If someone insists, offer to make the call yourself instead.
  • Be wary of messages requesting sensitive financial details.


Scammers often target foreigners who may be unfamiliar with local customs and legal systems. To ensure safety in South Korea, always verify job offers, be cautious when assisting strangers, and keep personal belongings secure. If you encounter a scam, report it to the local authorities or seek help from your embassy.

For further assistance, the Seoul Foreign Resident Center provides resources and legal guidance for foreigners: global.seoul.go.kr.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can better protect yourself from fraudulent schemes while enjoying your time in South Korea.

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