Sports betting is strictly prohibited for North Korean citizens under the country's stringent gambling laws. The North Korean government maintains an extremely strict and autocratic approach to gambling regulation, similar to its broader policy framework (1). While all forms of gambling remain illegal for local residents, the government has created limited exceptions for foreign visitors as part of its strategy to generate foreign currency revenue.
North Korea operates a dual system where gambling activities, including sports betting, are exclusively reserved for international tourists while being completely banned for domestic citizens. The country has established casinos in strategic locations including the Imperial Hotel & Casino in Rason and the Pyongyang Casino in the Yanggakdo International Hotel, primarily targeting Chinese tourists (2). This approach reflects the government's attempt to balance strict domestic control with economic opportunities from foreign tourism.
"North Korea has already been operating casinos for foreigners in Pyongyang and Rason, where it jointly runs a special economic zone with China."
The legal framework surrounding sports betting in North Korea remains unchanged for citizens, with no indications of liberalization in domestic gambling policies. Recent developments have shown the government's willingness to expand gambling opportunities for tourists, including proposals for new casino developments in border regions near China (2). However, any North Korean citizen found participating in gambling activities, including sports betting, faces severe legal consequences under the country's criminal code, reinforcing the government's commitment to maintaining this strict dual-tier system (1).
Source:
https://www.expatbets.com/korea/betting-regulations/
https://time.com/4985283/north-korea-racetrack-gambling-horse-racing/
Last updated: 15-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
