A mail-order seller is refusing my return.

What the Law Says

South Korean consumer protection law gives strong rights to buyers in mail-order transactions, including online, phone, and catalog purchases.

Under the Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions, if you buy something through mail order (including e-commerce), you have the right to cancel the contract and return the item within 7 days of receiving it — no reason needed.

The seller must process your refund within 3 business days after getting the returned item. They must refund the full purchase price, including delivery fees if the seller offered free shipping or if the return was due to seller error.

Sellers cannot charge restocking fees, require original packaging beyond reasonable condition, or refuse returns based on 'final sale' policies — such terms are invalid under Korean law.

Statutory Text

The supplier shall allow the consumer to withdraw his/her application for supply of goods or services within seven days from the day on which the consumer receives the goods.

— Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions, s. 36 — Right to Withdrawal

Statutory Text

The supplier shall refund the amount paid by the consumer without delay, and in any case within three business days from the date on which the supplier receives the returned goods.

— Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions, s. 37 — Refund Period

What to Do

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