Nonghyup among least favored shopping malls

By Kim Se-jeong

An online shopping mall run by the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation, or Nonghyup, is among the least favorite online retailers.

According to a Seoul Electronic Commerce Center survey result released Monday, www.nhmarket.kr placed 25th out of 27 surveyed online malls that sell a variety of commodities.

It received 77.7 points ― 41 points on consumer protection, 26.7 on consumer satisfaction and 10 on damage control ― out of 100.

The GS shopping mall (www.gsshop.com) claimed the top place, followed by the Hyundai H mall (www.hyundaihmall.com) and the Korea Post Office mall (mall.epost.go.kr).

“The survey was done to inform consumers about the performance of e-shopping malls so that they will make better decisions when they shop online,” said Jong Kwang-hyun, director of the public welfare economic policy division at the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG).

The city government oversees management of the electric commerce center, which has conducted the survey since 2007.

Assessment was based on criteria of consumer protection, consumer satisfaction and handling of customer complaints.

A total of 100 surveyed shops included retailers specialized in food, books, travel, computer, tickets, fashion and electronic goods. Social commerce websites, where individual consumers share their opinions on buying and selling via social media, were also surveyed.

Auction (Www.auction.com) was rated as the favorite among the marketplace providers. Icoda (Www.icoda.com) claimed the top place in the computer category; www.miamasvin.co.kr in fashion; www.e-himart.co.kr in electronic goods; www.sonatural.co.kr in cosmetics; and www.yes24.com in books.

Kim Hyung-dong, 32, said the rating would do little to change his mind. He has a shopping list for his new car, and shops at www.11st.co.kr.

“The survey result won’t change my mind, because I have points that I can use on this website. Also, I have not had a problem getting refunds or exchanges.”

Suh Young-a, 26, shares Kim’s view. “I would go to any place that offers the best price.”