Ulleung County to take legal action over false YouTube video

Ulleung County in Gyeongsangbuk-do has announced plans to pursue legal action against a YouTube channel following the spread of a false video claiming tourists were held captive and coerced into purchasing local specialties.

The video, uploaded on October 23, alleged that a tour guide locked 30 passengers in a warehouse and threatened them to force the purchase of 300,000 KRW worth of products. However, local police and maritime authorities confirmed that no such report or incident was ever recorded.

Ulleung County officials stated that the video constitutes malicious defamation of local businesses and residents while inciting anxiety among potential tourists. The county is considering filing complaints for defamation and is working with local small business organizations to coordinate a response. This incident follows previous controversies regarding local pricing, which have contributed to a steady decline in the number of tourists visiting the island.