South Korean Police To Crack Down On Illegal Casinos
South Korean authorities are intensifying efforts to combat illegal Texas Hold ’em casino venues that have reportedly generated millions in illicit profits.
According to a report by the national news agency Newsis, police have initiated an intensive four-month crackdown on illegal gambling operations in Texas Hold ’em bars nationwide.
These establishments typically impose an entry fee and are designed to simulate a casino atmosphere without engaging in real-money betting. However, authorities have found that some venues operate contrary to this premise.
Between 2023 and 2024, the National Police Agency of South Korea apprehended nearly 5,000 individuals for illegal gambling activities, with 49 individuals facing detention.
This past March, law enforcement conducted a raid on an underground gambling operation masquerading as a poker venue in Seoul, where investigators believe the owners amassed over $5 million.
A police spokesperson commented: “We encourage gamblers who wish to come forward to report illegal activities, as turning themselves in may result in reduced penalties.”
Understanding South Korea’s Gambling Legislation
South Korea maintains stringent laws prohibiting local and online casinos from operating within its borders. However, this restriction has led to a notable influx of players engaging with offshore casinos, which are not subject to South Korean regulations.
Offshore casinos readily accept players from South Korea via the internet, providing an avenue for those looking to bypass local laws. Residents are allowed to place bets on regulated sports, such as soccer and horse racing, though participation is tightly controlled by the state. Clients must verify their identity and age to ensure compliance with regulations.
This tightly monitored structure motivates many bettors to seek offshore sportsbooks, which offer greater freedom with fewer limitations and minimal oversight. This perceived anonymity allows players to enjoy their gambling experiences without the worry of supervision.
The lottery represents one of the few legalized gambling forms in South Korea. Established in 1969, it continues to hold immense popularity, with over 50% of residents aged 19 and older purchasing tickets annually.
Additionally, South Korea has one legal casino open to local residents: Kangwon Land Casino. This facility features over 200 gaming tables and approximately 1,350 slot machines, but is subject to stringent governmental oversight and regulations.
As South Korea’s gambling landscape continues to evolve, ongoing enforcement actions and regulatory updates highlight the complexities surrounding gambling practices within the nation.
Joe Lyons is a seasoned betting industry writer for GamblingIndustryNews, bringing years of experience from reputable sports and gambling websites. He has previously collaborated with Nottingham Forest, contributing content for both the academy and senior teams on matchdays. Joe has covered the Premier League and EFL as an on-site reporter for Prost International during the 2020/21 season. With expertise spanning multiple sports—including soccer, basketball, horse racing, and American football—Joe specializes in producing long-form content along with insightful news, tips, and betting analysis.
