Illegal Online Casino Network with $32.8M Turnover Uncovered in South Korea

The Cybercrime Unit of Daegu Police reported the arrest of 10 organizers of an international group running online casinos based in Cambodia.

Arrest and Detention Details

The group’s organizers were arrested for operating an illegal online casino with servers in Cambodia.

Of the 10 detainees, seven were taken into custody while three were released on bail. Additionally, 174 players were held accountable without detention.

Four leaders attempted to flee to Cambodia but were captured with Interpol’s assistance. Police confiscated $201,000 in cash and froze an additional $89,000.

How the Online Casino Operated

The group employed the following methods to run their operations:

• Frequent trips to Cambodia using tourist visas.
• Hosting servers abroad to conceal their activities.
• Using third-party bank accounts to hide income.
• Dividing responsibilities among members: handling deposits and payouts, monitoring players and staff.

Financial Figures

From February 2022 to July 2023, the operator attracted 11,144 players and processed bets totaling $32.8 million, mainly on baccarat and sports events.

Other investigation data indicates that the total illegal betting amounted to around <strong₩440 billion (approximately $32.8 million).

Investigation Timeline

Police Plans and Next Steps

Daegu Cybercrime Unit plans to expand the investigation to determine if the group had links to other criminal organizations. Operations will continue until October 31.

The police also aim to verify whether the organizers participated in international schemes and to investigate the use of other foreign accounts and servers.

Key Facts and Figures

• Number of players: 11,144
• Total bets: $32.8 million / ₩440 billion
• Organizers arrested: 10
• In custody: 7
• Players held accountable without detention: 174
• Confiscated funds: $201,000
• Frozen funds: $89,000