TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei’s Department of Legal Affairs said a complaint has been filed after a South Korean tourist alleged a souvenir shop in the city’s Ximending shopping district overcharged them during a purchase.

CNA reported Wednesday that the tourist posted on Threads about an unpleasant shopping experience at a Ximending souvenir shop. The traveler said they bought nougat crackers and chocolate but were charged about NT$500 (US$16) more than the items purchased.

The tourist said a review of the receipt showed the shop had added an extra box of tea priced at NT$499 that was not purchased. After the issue was raised with staff, the shop apologized and refunded NT$500, Liberty Times reported.

The department said it has received a consumer complaint related to the case. Officials warned that if a business intentionally overcharges customers, it could face accusations of fraud, per Yahoo News.

“Businesses must ensure product prices match the final checkout amount,” said Yeh Chia-hao (葉家豪), a Taipei consumer protection officer. He added that stores should promptly refund customers and improve internal checkout controls if overcharging errors occur.

Authorities also reminded consumers to check receipts before leaving a store and keep transaction records to avoid disputes. Officials noted that purchases made in physical stores generally cannot be returned without reason under Taiwan’s Consumer Protection Act.