South Korea has put the crack on illegal gambling in the country, leading to the arrest of more than 5,196 people suspected of running or participating in some form of illicit games of chance or betting.
The arrests were conducted in the last year alone, and they indicate a heightened activity from South Korean law enforcement intended to dismantle such operations.
Thousands of Arrests Send Clear Sign to Illegal Operators in South Korea
The operations are usually carried out with the help of both local gamblers and overseas operators that continue to barrage the country with ads and product offers. The arrests were carried out all over the country between November 2025 and October 2025.
Authorities have been stepping up efforts to counter illegal gambling, as it has been specifically targeting and affecting young people – usually those in their 20s and 30s, leading to lifetime struggles with gambling and a high personal and financial toll.
At least 50% of those arrested were represented by those age groups. Some, however, were minors and young children. Among the arrested were 97 individuals who were allegedly involved in a gambling business targeting South Koreans, estimated at $360 million.
The Korean National Police Agency believes that by maintaining pressure, it can help limit the harmful influence these illegal networks and operators have on locals. However, the evidence suggests that more is needed.
While busting large-scale gambling operations could be a useful way of limiting some of the harm emanating from the sector, the most efficient way could be through regulation. South Korea is obstinate when it comes to talks about launching online sports and casino gambling, fearing the toll on society would grow.