China’s embassy in Seoul has called on South Korean authorities to strengthen oversight of casino operators and stop gambling promotions targeting Chinese tourists.
The request follows reports suggesting that returning Chinese visitors could become a key growth driver for South Korea’s foreigner-only casino sector.
Embassy Opposes Targeted Gambling Promotions
According to The Korea Times, Tang Liang, counselor for consular affairs at the Chinese Embassy in Seoul, criticized suggestions that South Korean casinos should position Chinese tourists as their primary customer base.
Tang said the embassy was “deeply shocked” by such proposals and firmly opposed marketing efforts aimed specifically at Chinese visitors.
He reiterated that China maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward gambling and considers gambling by Chinese citizens overseas to be illegal.
Calls for Stronger Oversight
The embassy urged South Korean authorities to strengthen supervision of casino operators, ensure tourism institutions fulfill their regulatory responsibilities, and prevent gambling solicitation targeting Chinese nationals.
Tang also said China would continue educating outbound travelers, encouraging them to comply with Chinese law and avoid participating in overseas gambling activities.
Industry Faces Regulatory Sensitivity
South Korea operates 17 foreigner-only casinos, many of which rely on international tourism for revenue. While the recovery in Asian travel has fueled optimism about increased Chinese arrivals, casino operators remain cautious about openly targeting the Chinese market.
According to The Korea Times, concerns over Beijing’s continued crackdown on overseas gambling promotion have made operators reluctant to identify Chinese tourists as a primary marketing focus.
