Cooling-off is a consumer protection system under the Specified Commercial Transactions Act that allows unconditional contract cancellation within a specified period for contracts made through telephone solicitation or door-to-door sales. By providing a "cooling off" period, it protects consumers from impulsive contracts resulting from surprise solicitation.
The cooling-off period varies by transaction type. Telephone solicitation and door-to-door sales allow 8 days counting from the day the contract document is received. Multilevel marketing allows 20 days. Importantly, cooling-off does not apply to mail-order sales (online shopping, etc.). Since mail-order sales involve consumers making their own purchase decisions without the element of surprise, returns follow each business's return policy.
The 2022 amendment expanded cooling-off notification methods. Previously limited to written notice (postcards or certified mail), electronic records (email, FAX, USB drives, web forms, etc.) are now also accepted. Notification takes effect when sent, so postmarks or emails sent on the final day of the period are still valid. When notifying by postcard, copying both sides and sending via registered mail or simplified registered mail preserves evidence.
When cooling-off is established, all payments are fully refunded, and product return shipping costs are borne by the business. No cancellation fees or damages can be claimed. If a business falsely claims "cooling-off is not possible" or if the contract document lacks required information, cancellation remains possible even after 8 days. If you've made an unwilling contract through vishing or aggressive telemarketing, first consult the consumer affairs center (188). Review legal details in Specified Commercial Transactions Act and phone sales rights.