A lodging business in Busan has become embroiled in a growing controversy after it responded with profanity to a Japanese tourist's inquiry about a reservation. The Busan Metropolitan Government has launched an investigation, identifying the name of the establishment involved.
According to Yonhap News on Tuesday, a Japanese tourist identified as A, who introduced herself as a fan of BTS, recently booked a lodging in Busan and asked about check-in procedures, the elevator location, and whether the reservation would be automatically canceled. However, instead of providing guidance, the lodging reportedly replied with messages such as "What kind of pathetic XXX is this," and "Good luck canceling your reservation."
A disclosed the matter on social media to make the incident known. She later booked another lodging and is reported to have also inquired with the booking agency about the response.
As the controversy grew, the Busan city government identified the lodging business and began looking into the circumstances. The city plans to review whether relevant regulations were violated after confirming the facts.
The controversy erupted amid continuing friction surrounding Busan's lodging industry ahead of the BTS concert. With the BTS concert scheduled for the 12th and 13th, controversy had already arisen over allegations that some lodging establishments set excessive rates or unilaterally canceled reservations.
The Busan city government has stated it will take a hard-line stance against acts that disrupt order in the lodging market. In particular, regarding the practice of canceling reservations and reselling rooms at higher prices, the city is actively cooperating with the Busan Metropolitan Police Agency's investigation. To fundamentally prevent recurrence, it is reported to have proposed to central government ministries revisions to relevant laws, including the Tourism Promotion Act and the Public Health Control Act.
