Illegal Gambling Dens in Seoul Operate Exclusively for Chinese Nationals
Illegal gambling dens operating exclusively for Chinese nationals have expanded across parts of Seoul, according to a recent report by Chosun Daily. The investigation highlights a growing number of unlicensed gambling venues in the city’s Chinatown districts, particularly Garibong-dong in Guro-gu and neighbouring Daerim-dong in Yeongdeungpo-gu.
The report identified more than 100 illegal gambling operations featuring slot machines and mahjong tables. These establishments reportedly enforce strict entry rules, allowing access only to individuals presenting Chinese identification while explicitly barring Korean nationals. Many of the venues operate behind covered windows and discreet signage, despite being located in ageing commercial buildings along busy streets.
Investigators noted that several gambling dens are housed in older structures that also contain unregistered guesthouses. According to interviews cited in the report, patrons often stay overnight in nearby lodging after gambling rooms close around midnight, returning the next day to continue playing. Daily accommodation fees at these guesthouses were reported to be as low as KRW10,000.
Legal Restrictions and Enforcement Challenges
Under South Korean law, foreign nationals are permitted to gamble only at 17 licensed casinos nationwide. Operating an illegal gambling business for profit can result in prison sentences of up to five years or fines of up to KRW30 million. Property owners who knowingly allow illegal gambling operations on their premises face the same penalties.
Despite these legal restrictions, the number of illegal gambling dens under police surveillance has increased sharply. Data cited in the report shows monitored cases rising from 273 in 2022 to 909 in 2024. At the same time, enforcement effectiveness has declined, with on-site crackdowns becoming less frequent.
Police officials attributed the enforcement gap to the organised nature of the operations. Many gambling dens reportedly operate in tightly guarded, cell-like structures, making it difficult for authorities to gather evidence or conduct coordinated raids. Some venues employ lookouts, while others limit access through personal referrals.
Demographic and Social Factors
The report also points to broader demographic trends contributing to the issue. As the population of Chinese Koreans residing in South Korea has aged, economic marginalisation has left some middle-aged and elderly individuals more vulnerable to gambling activity. Community members interviewed said younger generations often leave Korea for employment elsewhere, leaving behind an older population with fewer opportunities for stable income.
Authorities acknowledge that illegal gambling remains difficult to eradicate, particularly when operations adapt quickly to enforcement efforts. Surveillance is ongoing, but officials concede that shutting down these venues permanently remains a challenge.
As reviewed by iGaming News Today, the situation underscores a wider policy issue facing urban regulators: illegal gambling activity is no longer confined to hidden locations but is increasingly embedded within local neighbourhoods, operating in plain sight while remaining difficult to dismantle.
