What's the cooling-off period for door-to-door sales?

What the Law Says

South Korean law grants consumers a statutory right to cancel door-to-door sales contracts within a fixed period — known as the 'cooling-off period' — to protect against high-pressure or impulsive purchases.

The cooling-off period for door-to-door sales (including direct sales at home, workplace, or other non-commercial premises) is governed by the Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions and Door-to-Door Sales (commonly called the 'Consumer Protection Act').

Under this law, consumers may cancel the contract unconditionally within 7 days from the date of contract conclusion or receipt of goods — whichever is later.

Cancellation must be made in writing (including email or certified letter), and the seller must refund all payments within 3 business days after receiving the cancellation notice.

The seller is required to inform the consumer about this right at the time of sale — including the duration, method, and consequences of cancellation — otherwise the cooling-off period extends to 3 months.

Statutory Text

A consumer who has entered into a door-to-door sales contract may cancel such contract within seven days from the date of conclusion of the contract or the date of receipt of the goods or services, whichever is later.

— Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions and Door-to-Door Sales, Art. 37 — Right to Cancel Door-to-Door Sales Contract

Statutory Text

The seller shall notify the consumer of the right to cancel under Article 37 at the time of contract conclusion, including the period, method, and effect of cancellation.

— Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions and Door-to-Door Sales, Art. 38 — Obligation to Notify Right to Cancel

What to Do

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