▲ Notice warning against scams impersonating Patagonia
A scam involving individuals impersonating a famous clothing brand to extort money has occurred in Jeju, prompting warnings for public vigilance.
A, a resident of Jeju City, recently suffered financial losses while attempting to apply after seeing a fake recruitment advertisement impersonating Patagonia Korea.
Following a text message instruction from the impersonator stating, "We need to prepare outfits, and since some supporting cast applicants fail to show up on the day of the shoot, you must deposit a security deposit," A pre-deposited 300,000 won.
Believing the detailed instructions regarding the schedule—such as the shooting concept, date, time, and location—as well as the stated need for security due to a celebrity's appearance, A sent the money. However, the scammer subsequently cut off contact, and the fake recruitment advertisement has now been deleted.
A stated, "Many applicants had posted comments expressing their intent to apply. There are likely more victims," and plans to report the impersonator to the police on fraud charges.
In particular, caution is warranted as similar scam damages could occur nationwide by taking advantage of the brand's trusted image.
Patagonia Korea stated through a notice on its official website on October 27, "This recruitment is unrelated to Patagonia, and our company never demands monetary deposits as a condition for participating in advertisement shoots," adding, "We ask for your special attention to prevent any damage from similar cases."
(Photo: Capture from Patagonia Korea website, Yonhap News)
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