Between September 2023 and October 2024, police arrested about 10,000 people, 4,715 of them were under the age of 19.
South Korea’s National Police Agency has disclosed frightening numbers from a year-long investigation to combat unlawful internet gambling.
A massive cybercrime sweep in South Korea reveals that nearly half of those arrested are under the age of 19.
From September 2023 to October 2024, police detained over 10,000 persons, with 4,715 of them under the age of 19. The massive operation, which was first geared at catching gambling operators and big-time players, shifted gears when officials noticed an alarming increase in youth participation.
The operation was part of a larger effort by the National Investigation Headquarters to combat cybercrime, according to the Maeil Business Newspaper. According to reports, law enforcement arrested 297 operators and seized around KRW126 billion ($90.4 million) in unlawful revenues. However, youth involvement proved to be one of the most significant concerns, accounting for over half (47.2%) of those arrested.
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The age split indicated that 17-year-olds were the biggest group, with 1,763 participants (38%), followed by 16-year-olds with 1,241 persons and 15-year-olds with 560 instances. Even younger children, including a 9-year-old, were located during the operation, which is concerning.
Online casino gaming has become the most popular form of gambling among these young gamers, accounting for 82.6% of recorded cases. During this period, the kids wagered a total of KRW3.7 billion ($2.64 million), with each participant spending an average of KRW780,000 ($560). In one prominent example, a 16-year-old kid gambled up to KRW190 million ($136,000) playing baccarat.
99% of arrested teenagers were casual gamblers, while others were involved in more serious crimes.
The data also shows the sorts of crimes committed. The majority (99%) of the minors apprehended were casual gamblers. However, some were more active in criminal operations. Among these, 16 helped operate gambling sites, 13 worked on their development and management, and a few provided gambling items and advertisements.
Children gambled for various reasons. About 43% indicated they were simply curious. Another 34% felt forced by their peers to participate. Ads, both online and offline, have a significant influence on encouraging children to bet.
Aware of the emotional toll and potential long-term consequences, officials have sent 1,733 youngsters, or 37% of those arrested, to professional counseling services. This phase is intended to aid their recovery and prevent them from reoffending.
Given the gravity of the situation, the National Police Agency has decided to extend the crackdown for an additional year. They emphasize their commitment to preventing teenage gambling. Officials highlighted the negative consequences these activities might have on teenagers as they grow older. They emphasized how important it is to prevent this and have a comprehensive support system in place.
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