South Korea Warns of Illegal Campsite Investment Scams

South Korean authorities are alerting the public to fraudulent investment schemes promising high returns from campsite developments. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport have jointly warned that advertising campsites for individual lot sales or membership investments is illegal. Camping has surged in popularity, fueled by demand for family, pet-friendly, and nature-oriented travel. This trend has unfortunately attracted scammers who exploit the market by promoting investment opportunities in planned or operating campsites. However, under the Tourism Promotion Act, campsites are classified as tourism businesses that cannot be individually divided or sold as memberships. Operators must register and manage the entire facility. Selling individual camping sites or shares is a violation of the law, regardless of whether the campsite is registered. Those who break this law risk imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of up to 30 million won, with the possibility of both penalties being imposed. Authorities are concerned about potential investor losses due to these illegal practices.