South Korean fugitive arrested in Philippines over online gambling???
A South Korean national wanted for illegal online gambling operations was arrested on 9 July by operatives of the Philippines’ Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) in coordination with Korean authorities and the Manila Police District.
According to the bureau, the suspect, identified as Lee Yong Jae, was apprehended at a building along Bocobo Street, Barangay 698, Malate, in Manila. Authorities confirmed that he is the subject of an Interpol Red Notice and a warrant of arrest issued by the Seoul Bukbu District Court in South Korea.??
South Korean officials described Lee as a “high-value illegal investor” behind multiple illicit gambling platforms targeting both Korean and Filipino users. The officials said that since 2022, the suspect has reportedly launched several baccarat websites, including one named “Phoenix,” which operated using livestream feeds from hotel-바카라s across Southeast Asia and various bank accounts to facilitate betting transactions.??
Investigations by Korean authorities revealed that Lee’s operations generated approximately KRW 215 billion ($155.9 million) in revenue. A communication from the Korean Embassy in Manila, dated 16 October 2024, confirmed Lee’s status as a fugitive and described him as a “serious threat to public safety.”
Existing orders and local charges
BI records show that Lee had two derogatory entries prior to his arrest: a Blacklist Order issued on 16 January 2025, and a Watchlist Order dated 21 October 2024, both issued on the grounds of undesirability and being a fugitive from justice.
Following his arrest, Lee was transferred to the custody of the Ermita Police Station, where he is also facing drug-related charges under Section 11 of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. This section covers the possession of dangerous drugs, although authorities have yet to release full details regarding the charge.
The BI has initiated deportation proceedings against Lee, which will run in parallel with the local criminal case he is now facing.
Enforcement and regional cooperation
The arrest operation reflects the BI’s broader efforts to modernise enforcement operations and enhance international coordination in tracking down transnational criminals. It is part of the government’s ongoing effort to comply with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen border control and law enforcement under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda.
In a statement, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado praised the coordinated efforts that led to Lee’s arrest. “We remain firm in our commitment to cleanse our borders of fugitives who use the Philippines as a safe haven,” Viado said. “This is in line with the President’s call for strong law enforcement and intensified border protection under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda. Criminals will find no sanctuary here.”
He added that the FSU agents involved in the operation acted swiftly and effectively in executing the arrest with the support of Korean counterparts and the Manila Police District.
Cross-border nature of illegal gambling syndicates
Lee’s arrest follows growing concern in both South Korea and the Philippines over the cross-border nature of illegal gambling syndicates. These operations often exploit regulatory gaps, online anonymity, and regional financial networks to evade authorities.
Philippine officials have reiterated their stance that the country should not become a haven for foreign fugitives. The BI said it continues to work closely with Interpol, foreign embassies, and local law enforcement units to monitor, track, and detain individuals subject to international warrants.
