A South Korean man has been charged for running illegal iGaming websites with the help of North Korean hackers. According to the Seoul prosecutors, the man, known only as Kim, broke laws including the National Security Act by working closely with North Korea’s cyber unit, called the 313 Bureau. Between 2022 and 2024, Kim worked
A South Korean man has been charged for running illegal iGaming websites with the help of North Korean hackers.
According to the Seoul prosecutors, the man, known only as Kim, broke laws including the National Security Act by working closely with North Korea’s cyber unit, called the 313 Bureau. Between 2022 and 2024, Kim worked with China-based North Korean hackers who helped him create and run 16 gambling websites. These sites were later sold to other operators in South Korea. To promote those iGaming platforms, hackers offered not only technical support but also automated marketing tools.
Authorities found that Kim communicated with them using encrypted apps, exchanging over 1,100 messages in just two months. From March 2021 to August 2024, Kim made around 23.5 billion won (about $17 million) from the operation, taking fees and commissions from people buying gambling credits. At least 7 billion won ($5 million) of this money was sent back to North Korean operatives.
To avoid being caught, Kim moved to China while growing his gambling business. South Korea’s intelligence services followed him with later arrested him. Prosecutors say North Korea’s 313 Bureau plays a key role in funding Pyongyang through these illegal online activities.
South Korean officials are still investigating the full network and connections behind the scheme, calling for a fight against iGaming and cybercrime connected to national security risks. Earlier, the country reported a shocking rise in underage gambling.
FAQs
Is gambling legal in South Korea?
Gambling in South Korea is legal but strictly regulated.
What is the legal gambling age in South Korea?
The legal gambling age in South Korea is 19.