Yeosu City faces backlash over taxi driver rumor notices

Yeosu City is facing backlash after sending official documents to local taxi companies requesting they educate drivers to refrain from spreading “rumors” regarding the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo. The city suggested that dissatisfaction over a lack of increased income from the event might be driving drivers to spread unverified information about the expo’s shortcomings.

The expo, which has a budget of approximately 70.3 billion won, has faced ongoing criticism since its opening on November 5. Issues cited include insufficient preparation, poor content, and allegations of price gouging at food stalls. While the organizing committee aims to attract 3 million visitors, only about 180,000 people attended during the first two weeks.

Local taxi industry representatives expressed bewilderment and indignation, stating that the city’s actions feel like an attempt to scapegoat drivers for the event's perceived failures. The city has since clarified that the intent was to ask for restraint regarding unconfirmed speculations rather than to target drivers specifically.