South Korean Authorities Crack Down on Massive $3.8 Billion Illegal Gambling Network

Large-Scale Illegal Gambling Network Uncovered by South Korean Police

South Korea’s Gangwon Provincial Police Agency’s Criminal Investigation Unit has apprehended 14 individuals involved in a huge illegal gambling operation. This syndicate is believed to have conducted transactions exceeding KRW 5.3 trillion (approximately $3.8 billion) through online casino platforms linked to operations based in the Philippines.

Details of the Police Operation and Suspects

Among the arrested, seven suspects including the chief organizer, known only as Mr. A, have been taken into custody. They face charges related to organized crime and illegal gambling activities. Mr. A, who has a criminal record involving similar offenses, reportedly coordinated the gambling network even while serving time in prison in 2020. After his release, he recruited a group of developers to build a sophisticated system of gambling websites.

The investigation began following intelligence from a previously captured suspect. The authorities tracked the syndicate’s internal structure and extensive financial dealings, uncovering its international scope. As a result, the police froze assets worth KRW 3.3 billion (about $22.8 million) and have issued Interpol Red Notices for two members who fled abroad.

The Operation of the Gambling Scheme

Between November 2021 and March 2025, the group established 266 websites that streamed live casino games from major global gaming providers. Each site operator allegedly paid Mr. A roughly KRW 3 million per month (around $2,000) as management fees. The syndicate increased earnings by creating a “vendor company” in the Philippines, which sourced live casino feeds and digital gaming currencies directly from foreign suppliers.

Ongoing Investigations and Context

Authorities remain focused on dismantling these transnational gambling operations, anticipating further asset seizures and arrests as the inquiry continues. This case is part of a recent wave of gambling-related crackdowns in South Korea, including a notable takedown on Jeju Island targeting illegal online gambling platforms used by students and sailors, with bets reportedly exceeding $15 million before the operation was shut down.