It's hardly "pride". Due to currency differences and economic conditions $1000 per year will buy you about the same standard of living in other countries as $20000 gets you in the USA.
Probably also market consolidation. In the US we only have a few major computer brands offering panels like this at a "premium" price point, with some niche brands focusing on the even higher-end professional market
With proof that you sent it back you win paypal or credit card chargeback. Dispute with paypal immediately because there is a time limit! Then fire the CC chargeback at will.
Would be nice to deny shipment if convenient for you, but it seems like he'd be out more money for the replacement's shipping cost... If you liked the monitor and were really nice you could give him $25
HDMI=DVI plus audio. If your computer doesn't have HDMI output its DVI output can be converted to HDMI (minus audio) with a DVI to HDMI adapter or cable.
This is the one they are currently substituting, along with an unattached IEC 14 socket. (Also should note that you can probably find a cheaper agent than taobaogle)
When I read a lot of printed stuff my eyesight went to crap; when I used computers instead it stabilized. You really need to factor in age, though. Unless a heavy reader or computer user says that their eyes changed in their 20s I would doubt environmental causation.