South Korea has been taking a harder look at illegal gambling operations, holding players and operators accountable for either participating or hosting such activities. In its latest bust, South Korea’s National Office of Investigation (NOI) reported that it had been able to arrest 2,925 people connected with illegal gambling.

Droves of South Korean Teenagers Are Gambling Illegally

All of these arrests had been effectuated over a six-month period prior to NOI’s report, and the country is now launching a second six-month campaign in May, that will seek to arrest more people connected with facilitating illegal gambling.

In the latest bust, some 1,035 teenagers were arrested, indicating that there is a strong proliferation of illegal gambling services among youngsters who tend to be the most vulnerable when it comes to games of chance. Despite the risks, youths have been partial to gambling in South Korea, and have mostly been nonplussed by its illegal status in the country.

NOI said that 566 teenagers had been sent for counseling, as young people need to be set on a recovery path right away. However, leniency has not been shown to all. A total of 12 teenagers were actually apprehended on suspicion of having operated online gambling platforms themselves, and at least six teenagers are said to have promoted these websites, whether through affiliates or in some other way.

A total of $44.9 million had been seized from illegal gambling businesses and players during the course of the six-month operation. NOI also said that peer influence played a huge role in helping illegal gambling websites proliferate, as teenagers saw and embraced gambling from their peers or at school, although social media does have a part to play.

The majority of teenagers arrested were actually interested in baccarat rather than online casinos. For example, 41.9% prefer this specific card game against just 17.1% for those favoring online casinos. At least 19.8% of those gambling gambled on sports, and another 14.7% enjoyed online slots.

Young People Affected by Gambling – But by How Much?

The data revealed by NOI is worrying as it points to a very high incidence of gambling participation among young people in the country, but it’s also a solid basis to address and further direct resources to help protect youths.

Studies from all over the world have shown that regulating gambling has generally made it easier to track the rate of gambling participation among young people. Bringing more gambling options may have prompted some youths to gamble more, but it has also made it much simpler to track their participation and inform public debate and political action.

 South Korea does not allow any form of online gambling, which has made players seek alternatives such as offshore or illegal gambling sites. Those, however, may be contributing to a gambling problem that is festering. According to a study conducted in 2022, the level of gambling addiction in the country was 5.5% but the actual numbers could be much higher.

Last year, the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family began offering 12-day rehabilitation programs to help young addicts recover.

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Valenzuela City in the Phillipines has taken a significant stride towards eliminating unlawful gambling activities within its jurisdiction, as evidenced by a recent city council meeting.

Mayor Wes Gatchalian, Vice Mayor Lorie Natividad-Borja, and 1st District City Councilor Ricar Enriquez were among the prominent figures present at the meeting.

Recognising the adverse impact of illegal gambling on individuals’ lives, the council passed three ordinances aimed at directly addressing these issues. Ordinance No. 1105 emerged as a transformative measure by imposing a complete ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) from operating within Valenzuela City.

Those found to be in violation of this prohibition will face severe penalties, including fines of up to ₱300,000 ($5,431) and a maximum imprisonment term of one year. This bold action underscores the city’s dedication to safeguarding its residents through strict gaming regulations and cracking down on illicit gambling activities.

In addition to the POGO ban, Ordinance No. 1107 was enacted, temporarily suspending new applications for online gambling and Small Town Lotteries (STL) for a duration of five years. This moratorium will allow the city to thoroughly review its zoning ordinance and make any necessary adjustments. Existing businesses involved in online gambling and STL operations are expected to continue their activities without interruption.

Mayor Gatchalian, who has been at the forefront of this cause since taking office, expressed satisfaction with the passage of these ordinances. He emphasised the need for a comprehensive study, particularly regarding POGOs falling under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), and STL being administered by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Mayor Gatchalian made it clear that the city’s intent was not to defy national agencies but rather to protect its citizens from the risks associated with gambling.

Addressing Local Practices and Illicit Gambling

However, the city council also acknowledged the existence of unique local practices, such as the traditional game of Sakla, often played during wakes to raise funds for burial services and support bereaved families. To tackle this issue, Ordinance No. 1108 prohibits participation in any unauthorised or illegal activities. Violators of this ordinance will be subject to fines of up to ₱5,000, while organisers could face fines of up to ₱50,000 and imprisonment for one year.

To strike a balance between tradition and regulation, Mayor Gatchalian announced that the city would contribute a minimum of ₱7,000 towards funeral expenses for Valenzuela City residents. This gesture of support aims to assist grieving families and reduce reliance on Sakla as a means of financial assistance during challenging times.

The recent ordinances passed in Valenzuela City exemplify the unwavering commitment of its leaders to protect citizens from the detrimental effects of illegal gambling. By taking decisive action, the local government seeks to create a safer environment while respecting and supporting cultural practices. As the city moves forward, it is hoped that these measures will serve as a model for other regions in the ongoing battle against illegal gambling.

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