25.08.29.Today News : Busan’s Gijang County Reports 3,000-Won Fish Cake Vendor for Operating Without a License

Busan’s Gijang County Reports 3,000-Won Fish Cake Vendor for Operating Without a License

• YouTube video surpasses 6 million views as price-gouging controversy spreads

A street vendor near Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan sparked public outrage after selling fish cakes for 3,000 won each, more than double the normal price. Gijang County has confirmed the stall was operating without a business license and has filed a criminal complaint, as the case fuels broader concerns about price-gouging at tourist sites.

A street vendor near Haedong Yonggungsa Temple that sparked controversy by selling fish cakes at 3,000 won each has been revealed to be an unregistered business.

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■ Beginning of the controversy
The controversy started when YouTuber “Two Guys” posted a video on the 16th. In the video, the vendor told him the price of a single fish cake was 3,000 won. Shocked, he asked again if it was for multiple pieces, only to hear that one skewer alone cost that amount.

Although the YouTuber purchased one out of curiosity, expecting Busan’s fish cakes to be special, he found the taste no different from ordinary spicy fish cakes.

■ Other stalls with the same price
When he visited other stalls nearby, they all charged the same 3,000 won per fish cake. Later, at Haeundae Market, the price ranged from 1,200 to 1,400 won per piece, while in Seoul’s Gangnam area, fish cakes sold for about 1,000 won, leading him to point out that “Busan is actually more expensive.”

■ Negative impact on local image
The video has since gone viral, surpassing 6 million views by the 29th. Comments flooded in criticizing the vendors, with locals warning: “Never buy food near Haedong Yonggungsa,” and “It’s a place where foreign tourists are blatantly ripped off.” Others noted, “Even locals think 1,000 won is expensive, so no one buys it there.”

■ Local government response and limitations
Following an inspection, Gijang County confirmed the stall was unlicensed and filed a criminal complaint. However, under current law, local governments cannot regulate “price-gouging” itself. They can only impose fines for failing to display prices or for false labeling. The county stated it will strengthen administrative guidance on these issues going forward.

This case underscores how unchecked pricing practices can damage the image of tourist destinations and highlights the need for stronger regulations.

One-line summary : Gijang County filed a complaint against an unlicensed stall near Haedong Yonggungsa Temple for selling fish cakes at 3,000 won each.