South Korean police have successfully dismantled a large-scale online gambling network operating on Jeju Island, with total bets exceeding 22 billion won (approximately USD 15.3 million).

The group allegedly converted internet cafés and private villas into illegal betting hubs, targeting teenagers and seafarers.

Authorities have arrested 21 suspects, including the ringleader and several repeat offenders.

Case Overview: Over ₩22 Billion in Bets

According to the Jeju Provincial Police Agency, the main suspect—a man in his 40s—worked with 12 accomplices between October 2024 and July 2025, setting up multiple online casinos in Jeju City.

Investigators found that the network operated three major gambling websites, handling bets worth more than ₩9.2 billion (USD 6.4 million).

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Operation Method: Internet Cafés and Villas Turned Into Gambling Dens

The group allegedly converted two internet cafés and a villa into illegal betting centers.

Some of these sites were located near local schools, deliberately attracting underage gamblers.

Police seized multiple computers, cash, and server equipment, and discovered disguised “eSports zones” that functioned as hidden gambling tables.

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Loan Exploitation: Teenagers Charged Interest Rates up to 650%

Beyond gambling, the organization also ran illegal loan services, offering “quick loans” to high school students at annual interest rates up to 650%.
One teenager reportedly borrowed ₩11 million (USD 7,600) to fund gambling activities and was unable to repay the debt.

Police confiscated approximately ₩250 million (USD 174,000) in illegal proceeds directly linked to the operation.

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Wider Investigation: Related Gambling Rings Found Across Jeju Island

Authorities discovered several connected gambling groups across Jeju Island:

• Hannim Port Casino: Operated from June 2024 to February 2025, mainly targeting seafarers.
• Seogwipo City Ring: Active since mid-2023, running similar illegal setups.
• Other groups accepted luxury handbags as collateral for high-interest gambling loans.

Investigators believe the main ringleader may be based in Vietnam or other Southeast Asian countries, overseeing cross-border money laundering operations tied to Korean high-stakes gamblers.

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Police Statement: Crackdown on Cross-Border Gambling and Money Laundering

In an official statement, Jeju police pledged to intensify efforts against illegal online gambling and financial crimes, especially those targeting youth.

“Anyone who lends their bank accounts or transfers money on behalf of others could be charged as an accomplice to money laundering,”
the police warned.

They also urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities immediately.

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Significance: South Korea Strengthens Online Gambling Oversight

This case underscores South Korea’s ongoing efforts to tighten regulations on online gambling.

With the rise of digital gaming platforms, illegal betting has become increasingly sophisticated and widespread.

Experts say enhanced inter-agency cooperation and tracking of overseas fund flows will be crucial in future anti-gambling initiatives.

Editing by  Jimmy Butler