Korean tourist alleges ‘professor’ scammed him in Delhi, calls it his ‘worst experience’

Korean tourist alleges Delhi scam

A Korean content creator said his last night in Delhi turned scary as an elderly man, posing as a professor, allegedly duped him into paying inflated costs, besides demanding money.

A video posted by Seoul-based creator Walter K on Instagram captured a chain of events in Delhi that turned what had otherwise been a generally positive trip into a harrowing experience. According to the several Indian outlets to report on the story, Walter arrived in India in September and spent time touring the capital, including a visit to Old Delhi. He wrote that he had always held a positive view of India and its people. But on one night he accepted the help of an older man near Connaught Place who offered to show him around the city, saying, “I’ll show you around Old Delhi, and when I come to Korea you show me around.”

Trusting the man, Walter agreed to tag along. The man then allegedly steered Walter to various locations like ritual places, local shops, a rickshaw ride, and insisted Walter pay for everything. The rickshaw fare alone was quoted at Rs 3,800 for a short ride, which Walter says is far above reasonable rates. The Indian news sources put the amount at roughly equivalent to $100 (around Rs 8,864).

As the evening wore on, the "professor" reportedly welched on the offer to split costs, explaining his wife would "kill" him if he spent the money. Walter wrote that he "almost lost $100" before help arrived. For almost an hour, he struggled to extricate himself from the situation until some local friends of his intervened and set up a different ride. At that point, the alleged scammer fled the scene.

Walter, however, made it a point to remind that he did not get hurt and that, in the end, he got his money back. He was thankful it did not escalate into a more horrific experience. He was also quick to add that his trip's several good encounters eclipsed the unfortunate experience.

The video has since gained much traction and both local and international social media users have tagged the Delhi Police, asking the authorities to identify the alleged scammer to take necessary action. Indian users also expressed regret that the tourist had such an experience, emphasizing that one bad actor does not represent the country.

The incident raises fresh concerns about tourist safety in Delhi and how friendly overtures by strangers may mask exploitative behaviour. As India looks to ramp up inbound tourism, such scams can damage trust and highlight the need for clear guidance for travellers. Nevertheless, Walter's decision to still describe India as a "good country" shows not only his personal resilience but also a desire not to allow one bad experience to define his memory of the trip.