South Korean police detain 12 over US$43.3m illegal gambling operation
Authorities said the group operated sports betting, casino and slot platforms from November 2022 to July 2025.
South Korea.- Police claim to have dismantled an illegal online gambling network accused of processing around KRW60bn (US$43.3m) in bets and using YouTube videos to recruit players. The Ulsan Metropolitan Police Agency said on Monday, August 24 that 12 suspects had been detained and referred to prosecutors over the operation, while five others remain wanted in connection with the case.
The suspects, all reportedly in their 20s and 30s, allegedly ran websites offering illegal sports betting, casino games and slot games between November 2022 and July 2025. Police estimate that the network generated about KRW3bn (US$2.2m) in illicit proceeds during the period.
Investigators said YouTube was central to the group’s recruitment strategy. Members allegedly staged livestreams showing high winning rates and large payouts to create the impression that users could make substantial profits. Police said the group had a dedicated promotional team responsible for boosting the visibility of its content on YouTube’s search and recommendation pages, employing a traffic manipulation programme to artificially raise video views and real-time viewer figures.
The operation was divided into several functions, with members handling website management, customer support, player recruitment, promotion and the movement of gambling funds. Police said some members worked in shifts to process deposits and withdrawals. To conceal the operation, the group allegedly used officetels in Ulsan and Incheon as temporary offices and moved between locations.
Police launched the investigation in March 2025 and traced its operating sites. Officers seized computers, mobile phones and bank accounts along with around KRW3bn in suspected criminal proceeds, including deposits, vehicles and real estate. Five suspects, including the alleged overseas leader, are believed to have fled to Thailand. Police have obtained arrest warrants and requested Interpol Red Notices.
The Ulsan police said they will continue investigating the network while also probing other groups suspected of supplying illegal gambling platforms to adult PC rooms and distributors.
