South Korea is moving toward establishing a dedicated task force aimed at addressing the growing trend of its citizens gambling abroad. This initiative follows mounting concerns over regulatory gaps and rising social risks.
The recommendation emerged during a recent public forum jointly hosted by the Tourism Sciences Society of Korea (TOSOK) and The Korea Times. At this event, tourism scholars and policymakers gathered to examine the nation’s overseas gambling “problem.”
Regulatory Loopholes and Limited Legal Options
Currently, South Korean law prohibits locals from gambling at nearly all domestic casinos, except Kangwon Land — the only legal venue where citizens are allowed to bet. All other casinos are exclusive to foreigners. Citizens may also participate in limited forms of legal gambling such as horse racing and lottery games. However, demand for broader gambling access has led many to online illegal platforms or casinos abroad.
Panelists at the forum argued that this restrictive model creates a loophole that enables riskier behaviors. Furthermore, legal ambiguities for overseas gambling exacerbate the issue. Although South Korean law prohibits gambling abroad if it goes beyond casual leisure, enforcement remains inconsistent, especially for wealthy or high-profile individuals.
Overseas Spending on the Rise
According to the National Gambling Control Commission, South Koreans spent an estimated KRW4.9 trillion (approx. USD3.5 billion) on gambling abroad in 2017. Around 80% of this was spent in Macau and the Philippines, two popular destinations for Korean gamblers.
Experts now say better oversight, prevention strategies, and intervention programs are urgently needed. These actions are particularly necessary as regional gambling destinations continue to grow and actively target South Korean clientele.
Next Steps
Forum participants are urging the government to form a multi-agency task force that could coordinate across the tourism, justice, and finance ministries. This task force would focus on enforcement, education, and support for gambling addiction.
As online and overseas gambling channels continue to expand, the call for stronger regulatory control — both at home and abroad — is growing louder.
