South KoreaWhat if a product from overseas direct purchase is?
If a product from overseas direct purchase is defective, Korean consumers may still claim remedies under the Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions and the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization, but only if the foreign seller has a domestic agent or conducts business in Korea.
What the Law Says
Korean consumer protection laws apply to overseas direct purchases only under specific conditions — primarily when the foreign seller has appointed a domestic agent in Korea or is deemed to be conducting business within Korea. The key statutes define obligations for refunds, replacements, and liability.
The Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions (E-Commerce Act) applies to online transactions where the seller targets Korean consumers — including overseas sellers who use Korean-language websites, accept Korean won, or advertise to Korean users. However, enforcement requires the seller to have a domestic representative.
Under Article 35 of the E-Commerce Act, sellers must clearly state return/refund policies before purchase. If a product is defective, consumers may demand repair, replacement, or refund — unless the defect results from consumer misuse.
The Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization (ICT Network Act) reinforces this: Article 28 mandates that businesses operating online services targeting Korean consumers must appoint a domestic agent to handle complaints and legal responsibility.
Statutory TextWhere a business operator engages in electronic transaction activities targeting consumers in the Republic of Korea, it shall appoint a domestic agent.
— Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization, Art. 28
Statutory TextThe business operator shall, without delay, replace or repair the defective goods or refund the purchase price upon request by the consumer.
— Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions, Art. 35
What to Do
Check if the overseas seller lists a Korean domestic agent (name, address, contact) on their website or order confirmation.
Contact the domestic agent in writing (email or certified mail) within 30 days of receipt to request repair, replacement, or full refund.
If no domestic agent exists, file a complaint with the Korea Consumer Agency (KCA) — they may mediate but cannot compel foreign sellers.
For disputes over KRW 5 million or more, consider filing with the Seoul Central District Court — but only if jurisdiction can be established (e.g., contract specifies Korean law).
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.