South KoreaWhat law applies when problems occur on a cruise?
South Korean consumers on cruises are protected by the Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions and the Act on Promotion of Overseas Travel, which apply to contracts with Korean-based cruise operators or travel agencies.
What the Law Says
When problems occur on a cruise booked through a South Korean operator or travel agency, two main statutes apply: the Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions (for online bookings) and the Act on Promotion of Overseas Travel (for travel services). These laws set minimum standards for contract terms, liability, refunds, and dispute resolution.
The Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions governs online cruise bookings made in South Korea. It requires clear disclosure of terms, prohibits unfair clauses, and mandates refunds for cancellations caused by the provider.
The Act on Promotion of Overseas Travel applies to all overseas travel services sold by registered Korean travel agencies, including cruises. It imposes strict liability on travel agencies for damages arising from service failures — unless proven due to force majeure or passenger fault.
Both laws require written contracts, prohibit unilateral changes to key terms (e.g., itinerary, vessel, duration), and entitle consumers to compensation if services fall short of agreed standards.
Statutory TextIf a travel business operator fails to provide the travel services as stipulated in the contract, it shall compensate the traveler for damages incurred thereby.
— Act on Promotion of Overseas Travel, s. 24 — Liability for Non-Performance
Statutory TextA consumer may cancel a contract concluded via electronic transaction and receive a full refund within seven days of conclusion, unless the service has already commenced.
— Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Transactions, s. 16 — Right to Withdrawal
Statutory TextWhere a travel business operator causes damage to a traveler due to negligence or intentional act, it shall pay compensation up to twice the amount of the travel fee, but not exceeding fifty million won.
— Act on Promotion of Overseas Travel, s. 25 — Compensation Limit
What to Do
Keep your signed contract, payment receipts, and all communications with the cruise operator or travel agency.
Notify the Korean travel agency in writing within 7 days of discovering the problem.
Request a written explanation and proposed remedy within 30 days.
File a complaint with the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) or the Korea Consumer Agency if unresolved.
Seek mediation or file a claim at the Seoul Central District Court if compensation exceeds KRW 50 million.
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.