KFTC Revises Standard Contract Terms to Prevent “Hit-and-Run” Fitness Centers(2025.5.26)

Key Revisions to the Standard Terms for Gym (Fitness Center) Use:

1. Mandatory Advance Notice of Closure or Suspension
   • Gym operators must notify users at least 14 days in advance if they plan to suspend operations for over a month or permanently close.
   • This reflects amendments to the Act on the Installation and Use of Sports Facilities (effective April 23, 2025).
2. Disclosure of Surety Insurance Coverage
   • If the gym has surety insurance, operators must inform users of the type and coverage details, enabling compensation in cases of sudden business shutdowns or unauthorized absences.
3. Clarification of Coverage for Personal Training (PT)
   • The revised terms explicitly include one-on-one personal training (PT) as part of the services subject to standard contract terms, resolving prior ambiguity and reducing disputes between trainers and users.
4. Setting Limits on Postponement Periods
   • Operators may now pre-set a maximum postponement period with the user’s consent, addressing the issue of unlimited deferrals that place undue burden on businesses.
5. Improved Refund Guidelines and Terminology Updates
   • The revised terms incorporate changes from the Enforcement Decree of the Sports Facilities Act and Consumer Dispute Resolution Standards, refining refund policies and updating outdated references.

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With this revision, consumers can expect timely notification of closures, transparent insurance coverage, and clearer rules for PT and service postponement—significantly reducing the risk of harm from so-called "hit-and-run" gyms. The changes also provide legal clarity for businesses and help foster a fairer fitness service market.