South Korea busts illegal gambling operation targeting teens
South Korean authorities have reportedly busted an online gambling ring that pulled in over $18.2 million in illegal bets. The operation targeted both school children and adults. Arrests have been made by authorities of multiple individuals who entangled over 100 of middle and high school students as gamblers, some as young as 13.
Operation took place online
Four individuals, including the group’s supposed leader, a 27-year-old man, were arrested following an investigation by the Suwon District Prosecutors’ Office. Police uncovered that the group had been operating the illegal website from an apartment complex in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, between February and December 2023. The youngest recorded victim, a middle school first-year, reportedly lost nearly $877. The operation took place online.
“Gambling can have serious social impacts, not just for adults but especially for teenagers who may develop addiction. Even simple betting can be subject to legal punishment, so people must avoid illegal gambling websites entirely,” a police officer was quoted saying.
One member of the group acted as a dedicated recruiter, targeting teens between the age of 13 and 18 to through social media and messaging apps. The recruiter received 20 percent commission on whatever losses these people generated while playing slot games on the platform. The website was reportedly used by over 2000 people, among them were 100 school children. The proceeds from the operation were used to purchase luxury goods, such as watches, and foreign-made high-end cars. If convicted, the accused could face up to five years in prison and fines up to 30 million won ($21,830). Another charge, participating in gambling, carries a penalty of up to 10 million won ($7,000).
South Korea’s track record of crack downs
Several cases of illegal gambling operations have come up from various regions in the country, with some involving well-known faces. In April, South Korean comedian Lee Jin-ho faced prosecution after admitting to borrowing nearly $2 million to support an illegal online gambling habit. Although he was not detained, prosecutors will move forward with charges. South Korean actress Han So-hee’s mother, identified by the surname Shin, also received a suspended prison sentence for running a network of illegal gambling dens.
In a recent crackdown, a South Korean man has been indicted for operating a series of illegal online gambling websites with the assistance of North Korean hackers. According to local media, Korea Joongang Daily, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office announced charges against the individual, surnamed Kim, which include violations of the National Security Act, unlawful gambling operations, and the concealment of criminal proceeds.
South Korea has continued ongoing efforts in place to tackle the illegal gambling operations. The most recent one saw Sports Toto Korea encouraging the public to report illegal sports gambling activities through its official Illegal Sports Toto Reporting Center. People who provide useful information about illegal gambling operators can receive rewards of up to 200 million won. Citizens can report site operators, users, and website addresses.
