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The video, published on the YouTube channel of Japanese broadcaster TBS’ News Dig on Sunday, shows a group of Japanese tourists taking a taxi from the Myeong-dong shopping district to Hongdae, a popular nightlife area in north-western Seoul, The Korea Herald reported.

Before the ride began, the driver switched off the meter and demanded 45,000 won (US$32.44), citing heavy traffic.

The 10-km trip normally costs around 12,000 won, based on the base fare of 4,800 won for the first 1.6 km plus 100 won for every additional 132 meters, Chosun reported.

At the destination, the driver again insisted on 45,000 won, later offering to reduce the fare to 40,000 won if paid in cash.

The footage quickly went viral in South Korea, sparking outrage online.

“This damages South Korea’s global reputation,” a netizen wrote.

Authorities later identified the driver during a crackdown by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and issued a fine, though the exact amount was not disclosed.

Under city regulations, a first violation carries a fine of 200,000 won, a second offense results in a 400,000 won fine plus a 30-day suspension, and a third offense leads to a 600,000 won fine and license cancellation.

Since Aug. 6, Seoul has launched a 100-day crackdown targeting taxi drivers who overcharge foreign tourists, focusing on airports and major tourist destinations, The Independent reported.