Jang Seob Yoon
Research expert covering South Korea
Gambling in South Korea - statistics & facts
Gambling in South Korea is a multi-trillion South Korean won industry. Overseen by the National Gambling Control Commission, seven sectors comprise domestic gambling. Apart from the lottery and sports betting, the other five gambling events can be attended in person, forming exciting on-site atmospheres with rising stakes. In particular, the traditional sport of bull wrestling harks back to times bygone. Establishments like Kangwon Land offer a modern setting for contemporary gambling, and it remains the only casino open to the general public in South Korea.
What is the lottery like in South Korea?
Unlike its counterparts, the lottery was the only gambling sector to record continuous growth in revenue despite the COVID-19 pandemic. The breakdown of lottery sales highlights how popular its online platforms were among consumers, as it accounted for the vast majority of total earnings. Additionally, survey results depicted an altruistic mindset overall, as respondents replied that they remained positive even if they did not end up with the winning ticket. Such philanthropic tendencies were on display when asked about the uses of the lottery fund as well, with a demand for welfare present among the answers.Sports betting in South Korea
Sports betting is an important facet of professional sports in terms of monetization. Available for a variety of competitions, sports betting recorded the second-highest revenue from gambling segments in the country. Although baseball had the highest attendance numbers in pro sports, football was the popular choice among sports bettors. In contrast to the largely online nature of sales for the lottery, most people bought their betting tickets offline.Illegal gambling is becoming a problem
A problem that has become more prevalent in recent years is illegal gambling. In particular, online betting crimes are a troublesome matter. The rapid game results and constant availability induce consumers to invest more time and money without restraint. Underage students are proving to be vulnerable, with an abundance of online advertisements exposing them to such illicit activities. Survey results from 2022 highlighted various adversities experienced by those who partook in betting as a minor, such as disputes with friends or family members.
