You paid for something locally.
You were in your country when you checked out.
But your card app or bank alert says:
Foreign transaction.
This looks suspicious.
Sometimes it’s a real issue.
Often, it’s just how the merchant is registered.
Why a Local Purchase Can Appear as “Foreign”
- Merchant registration: The brand operates locally, but billing is processed by an overseas entity.
- Payment processor location: The charge is routed through an international payment gateway.
- App store / digital services: The store account is tied to a different country or region.
- Cross-border billing descriptor: The statement name uses an overseas code even for local users.
In many cases, the billing country is not the same as your physical location.
How to Verify Whether It’s Actually Foreign
- Open the transaction details and check the merchant name and country code.
- Confirm the amount: is it in KRW or a foreign currency?
- Look for an extra line such as foreign transaction fee or currency conversion.
- Check your service account receipts (invoice / billing history) for the same date and amount.
If the merchant and amount match your purchase, it’s usually an identification issue, not fraud.
What to Do If It Looks Wrong
- If you don’t recognize the merchant, freeze the card and contact your card issuer immediately.
- If it’s your purchase but marked foreign, ask the issuer about cross-border classification and possible fees.
- For app subscriptions, check the store region and your payment profile settings.
How to Prevent Confusion Next Time
- Save receipts (email + in-app invoice) for subscription renewals.
- Enable alerts for both domestic and foreign categories.
- Use one consistent store region if you buy digital services regularly.
A “foreign” label does not automatically mean your card was stolen.