South Korean police are investigating an alleged illegal online gambling network that handled more than 60 billion won ($43.36 million) in wagers between November 2022 and July 2025.
The case involves 17 suspects in their 20s and 30s. Twelve have been referred to prosecutors, while five others believed to be in Thailand are being sought internationally. Police estimate that the group generated more than 3 billion won in illicit proceeds.
YouTube used to manufacture gambling hype
The network allegedly used YouTube for more than simple advertising. Police say the group used livestreams to create the appearance of high win rates and unusually large payouts on its gambling platforms.
Investigators also found a self-developed traffic manipulation system designed to inflate video views and real-time audience numbers.
The group reportedly operated a dedicated promotion team to boost the visibility of its livestreams. By artificially increasing engagement metrics, the suspects allegedly sought to push promotional videos higher in YouTube search results and recommendation feeds.
The strategy was designed to make the gambling platforms appear more popular and successful than they actually were, potentially encouraging more viewers to sign up and bet.
Investigation began with a tip
Police launched the investigation in March 2025 after receiving a tip. Investigators subsequently traced locations linked to the operation and seized computers, burner phones, dummy bank accounts and other evidence used to reconstruct the network's activities.
After an 18-month investigation, authorities identified and apprehended 12 suspects.
According to police, the network operated from several locations in South Korea, including Incheon and Ulsan.
Five suspects believed to be in Thailand
Five suspects remain at large and are believed to be in Thailand. South Korean authorities have obtained arrest warrants and requested Interpol Red Notices to help locate them.
Police said they will continue working with international authorities to pursue the remaining suspects.
The investigation remains ongoing and the allegations have not been established in court.
Source: Yonhap News Agency
