Under South Korea’s Criminal Act, most forms of gambling are prohibited, with severe penalties for unlicensed operators and participants. Article 246 explicitly bans unauthorized betting activities, reflecting the government’s strict stance on gambling to protect public order and moral standards (1).
Despite the general prohibition, the government permits certain state-run and licensed lotteries, including sports lotteries and horse racing. These exceptions are tightly controlled by the Korea Racing Authority and the Korea Sports Promotion Foundation to ensure transparency and limit social harms (2).
"Sports lotteries are operated under strict government oversight, with all revenues supporting athletic development and community programs across the country."
Attempts to operate or use offshore sportsbooks remain illegal under South Korean law, and those caught face criminal charges, fines, and potential imprisonment. Enforcement is conducted by the National Police Agency and relevant regulatory bodies to curb illegal betting networks and protect citizens from unregulated markets.
Source:
https://www.law.go.kr/LSW/eng/engLsSc.do?menuId=2§ion=lawNm&query=Criminal%20Act
https://www.sportstoto.or.kr
Last updated: 28-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
