Fake Acupuncturist Arrested in Jeju: Shocking Details of Unlicensed Treatments and Community Outrage

The Shocking Arrest: How a Fake Acupuncturist Fooled Over 120 Patients

Did you know that a man in his 70s was recently arrested in Jeju for performing acupuncture without a medical license? Over the past four years, this individual traveled across Korea—from Jeju to Seoul, Busan, and Daegu—targeting vulnerable patients suffering from severe illnesses like dementia and cancer. He convinced more than 120 people that he could cure their incurable diseases, charging them up to five times the usual fee for acupuncture. His arrest has sent shockwaves through the Korean public, with many questioning how such a scam could go undetected for so long.

Unlicensed and Dangerous: The Methods Behind the Crime

This fake acupuncturist didn't just break the law—he put lives at risk. According to police reports and multiple news outlets, he used non-standard, dangerously long needles (up to 48cm) and sometimes left needles inserted in patients, telling them to remove them later themselves. In some cases, he even performed procedures over patients’ clothing, a practice unheard of in legitimate clinics. These reckless methods led to serious side effects, including severe eye swelling, abdominal pain, and blood infections. The victims, many of whom were elderly and desperate for relief, were left with lasting physical and emotional scars.

Legal Consequences: Korea's Strict Stance on Unlicensed Medical Practice

Korean law is clear: only licensed medical professionals can perform procedures like acupuncture. Violating this law can result in up to five years in prison or fines up to 50 million won. Despite having a previous conviction for similar offenses, this individual continued his illegal activities, highlighting the challenges in monitoring and preventing repeat offenders. The Jeju Provincial Police have emphasized their commitment to rooting out such practices, stating that exploiting the desperation of patients is a serious crime that must be eradicated.

Community Reactions: Outrage, Sympathy, and Calls for Reform

The case has ignited fierce debate on Korean online communities such as Theqoo, Nate Pann, Instiz, Naver, Daum, DC Inside, FM Korea, and PGR21. Many users expressed outrage at the exploitation of vulnerable patients, with comments like 'How could anyone prey on the sick like this?' and 'The law needs to be even stricter.' Others sympathized with the victims, noting how desperation for a cure can cloud judgment. Some users questioned the effectiveness of current oversight, calling for better regulation and more public education about the dangers of unlicensed treatments.

Cultural Insight: Why Acupuncture and Alternative Medicine Remain Popular in Korea

To understand why so many people fell victim to this scam, it's important to recognize the deep cultural roots of acupuncture and traditional medicine in Korea. Many Koreans, especially older generations, have strong faith in alternative treatments, sometimes even more than in Western medicine. This trust, combined with the stigma around incurable diseases and the high cost of official treatments, creates fertile ground for fraudulent practitioners. Overseas fans of Korean culture should know that while traditional medicine is respected, it is strictly regulated—and unlicensed practice is both illegal and dangerous.

Expert Opinions: The Real Risks of Acupuncture When Performed Illegally

Medical professionals and licensed acupuncturists have weighed in, warning that acupuncture is not as harmless as some believe. Even in the hands of experts, complications can occur, such as bleeding, nerve damage, or organ injury. When performed by untrained individuals, the risks multiply. A prominent Korean acupuncturist blogger emphasized that acupuncture is a 'minor surgery' requiring years of training and anatomical knowledge. The recent case has reignited discussions on medical blogs about the need for vigilance and skepticism toward unverified practitioners.

Media Coverage and Blog Discussions: How the Story Unfolded Online

Major news outlets like Yonhap, KBS, News1, and local Jeju broadcasters have covered the story extensively, detailing the investigation, arrest, and community impact. On Naver and Tistory blogs, practitioners and patients alike have shared their experiences and concerns, with many warning others to check credentials before seeking treatment. Some bloggers have analyzed the legal aspects, while others have focused on the emotional toll on victims. The consensus is clear: this case is a wake-up call for both the public and authorities.

What Overseas Readers Should Know: Lessons from the Jeju Fake Acupuncturist Case

For international readers, this story is a stark reminder of the importance of verifying medical credentials, especially when seeking alternative treatments abroad. Korean society highly values both traditional and modern medicine, but only when practiced by qualified professionals. The strong reaction from Korean netizens reflects a broader cultural intolerance for fraud, especially when it targets the most vulnerable. As medical tourism grows, so does the need for vigilance—both from patients and from regulatory bodies.

Looking Forward: Calls for Better Protection and Education

The Jeju fake acupuncturist case has prompted calls for stronger enforcement, more public awareness campaigns, and support for victims. Community members are urging the government to increase penalties for repeat offenders and to provide more resources for tracking unlicensed practitioners. Meanwhile, healthcare professionals are advocating for better education about the risks of unlicensed treatments. The hope is that tragedies like this will become a thing of the past, ensuring that all patients—Korean or foreign—can trust the care they receive.