The practice of 'phone number fishing,' previously common in nightlife areas, is reportedly spreading to discount stores like Daiso, sparking controversy.
According to a report by Newsis, an online community post described an incident where a woman, referred to as A, was approached by a man asking for her phone number while she was shopping at Daiso. The man commented on her skin and insisted that he liked her style before requesting her number.
A expressed her discomfort and declined, but the man persisted, blocking her path and saying, "If you give me your number, I’ll let you go." Following the encounter, A remarked, "It seems that phone fishing has reached Daiso now."
After researching the issue, A discovered that Daiso is gaining notoriety as a new hotspot for such incidents, with online discussions suggesting that women shopping for affordable cosmetics are often judged harshly. A noted, "The idea that buying cosmetics means you're trying to look good is troubling," and expressed her frustration at the man's refusal to respect her boundaries.
Experts warn that such behavior, which targets individuals in specific locations, can be perceived as a serious threat and may lead to legal issues under minor crime or stalking laws. They advise caution to prevent potential legal repercussions.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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