Korea Artiz Studio, a wedding photography business, is facing possible legal action under the Central Provident Fund (CPF) Act after missing a court hearing on September 30. The case concerns alleged failures to make timely CPF contributions for its employees, a requirement under Singapore law. When the studio’s representative did not appear in court, the prosecutor requested a two-week adjournment to facilitate contact with the company, a request granted by the court.
In addition to the CPF-related charges, Korea Artiz Studio is confronted with 22 claims filed at the Small Claims Tribunals (SCT) between September 30 and October 14. These claims typically involve consumer disputes over unpaid amounts up to S$20,000, or up to S$30,000 if both parties agree. The studio is also subject to one claim at the Employment Claims Tribunals, which handles employment-related salary and contract disputes.
The legal troubles follow reports in August of possible salary non-payment, triggering an investigation by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). This action came shortly after Carlton Hotel repossessed the studio’s premises due to unpaid rental fees, as the studio abruptly ceased operations. Around the same period, the Consumers Association of Singapore reported receiving 66 complaints from the studio’s customers, amounting to over S$271,000 in lost pre-payments.
Affected customers have organized themselves in a Telegram group that grew to 404 members by the end of September. Members of the group described their efforts to recover funds, including filing SCT claims and credit card chargebacks, although some noted an absence of any response from the studio. Attempts to contact Korea Artiz Studio have been unsuccessful; its listed telephone number and email are no longer functional, though its business website remains online.
Founded in 2008 in Busan, South Korea, Korea Artiz Studio markets itself as a luxury Korean bridal photography brand with international studios. Reports from Taiwan indicate the studio’s branch there ceased operations in August. Furthermore, customers interacting on the Jakarta outlet’s Instagram page have alleged that the studio absconded with their payments and demanded refunds.
The ongoing investigations and multiple consumer claims highlight significant challenges faced by Korea Artiz Studio as authorities and customers seek resolution.