[26.04.24] '2000 Won Bottled Water' Controversy at Gwangjang Market

“2000 Won Bottled Water” Controversy at Gwangjang Market… Video Involving Foreign Customer Spreads

📍Vendor’s explanation sparks backlash… stall suspended for three days

A controversy has erupted after a video showed bottled water being sold for 2,000 won at a stall in Gwangjang Market. Questions over pricing practices and unclear sales methods, particularly involving foreign customers, have drawn criticism. The market’s vendor association has since imposed a temporary suspension on the stall. The incident is now raising broader concerns about pricing transparency and trust in traditional markets.

🔹 “2,000 won for water”… situation involving foreign visitors

The controversy began when a foreign visitor shared a video of their experience at the market.

According to JTBC Crime Chief, A, a Myanmar national who has lived in Korea for 13 years, recently visited the market with a Russian friend. They ordered dumplings, japchae, and a bottle of soju at a stall and then asked for water.

The vendor responded by saying “2,000 won” and handed over a 500ml bottle of water without any label.

A found it unusual, noting that it is rare for restaurants in Korea to charge separately for water. She expressed confusion, saying it was her first time seeing such a practice.

🔹 “Because there are many foreigners”… explanation fuels controversy

When questioned about the price, the vendor explained that it was because there are many foreign customers at the market.

When A replied, “We are also Korean,” the vendor reportedly responded that the same applies to Korean customers as well.

This exchange sparked debate over potential price discrimination. The lack of labeling on the water and the relatively high price further fueled criticism, with many describing it as overcharging.

A stated that while she understood selling water itself, she found it surprising and uncomfortable to be charged separately in such a setting.

🔹 Online backlash grows

As the video spread across online communities and social media, public criticism intensified.

Many users questioned the logic behind the vendor’s explanation, while others expressed concern that such incidents could damage Korea’s image.

Given that the incident occurred in a traditional market popular among foreign tourists, concerns were also raised about its potential impact on tourism trust.

While some pointed out that vendors have pricing flexibility, the dominant view criticized the high price and lack of transparency.

🔹 Vendor association takes action

In response to the controversy, the market’s vendor association imposed disciplinary measures on the stall.

The stall was suspended from operating for three days, from April 22 to April 24.

An association official explained that some vendors use large bottles and serve water in cups, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings among foreign visitors.

However, the official also noted that pricing cannot be uniformly controlled due to the independent nature of vendors, adding that the incident may lead to more reasonable pricing practices.

The case highlights broader issues surrounding pricing transparency and operational standards in traditional markets.

One-line summary : A stall at Gwangjang Market was suspended after controversy over selling bottled water for 2,000 won.