South Korean gambling entities join forces with government bodies to reshape the industry landscape, promising a year of significant policy changes and increased oversight.
Key Takeaways:
- Major gambling organizations commit to government policy cooperation
- Focus on improving industry soundness and expanding social contributions
- 2025 declared as pivotal year for tackling illegal gambling and youth gambling issues
Gambling Industry Leaders Pledge Cooperation
In a significant move for South Korea’s gambling sector, key industry players have committed to actively participate in and support the government’s gambling policy initiatives. The pledge was made during a New Year’s ceremony attended by representatives from six major gambling industry organizations and the Prime Minister’s Commission on Integrated Supervision of the gambling industry.
The event, held on February 13, saw the participation of prominent figures including Ha Hyung-joo, Chairman of the Seoul Olympic Memorial National Sports Promotion Foundation, and Choi Chul-kyu, acting CEO of Kangwon Land, South Korea’s only casino open to locals.
2025: A Year of Industry Reform
The gathering served as a platform for industry leaders to align their strategies with the policies promoted by the Gambling Industry Integration Supervision Committee for 2025. The commitment extends to fostering closer cooperation and communication among gambling industry operators.
Ha Hyung-joo emphasized the foundation’s dedication to its public role, stating, ‘In 2025, we will faithfully play our role as a public institution in the changing environment and strive to improve the soundness of the sports promotion voting rights project. In addition, we will promote the project with an emphasis on creating a healthy use culture and expanding social contributions.’
Tackling Illegal Gambling and Youth Protection
Shim Do-taek, chairman of the gambling industry integration supervisory committee, declared 2025 as a crucial year for addressing two major concerns: illegal gambling and youth gambling problems. He called for active cooperation and participation from each institution to achieve these goals.
The committee’s focus on youth gambling prevention is evident in their plans to hold the next meeting during the youth gambling problem prevention week, scheduled for May 12-18.
Industry-Wide Commitment
The commitment from various sectors of the gambling industry signals a unified approach to addressing longstanding issues. With representatives from horse racing, sports betting, and casino operations present, the initiative encompasses a broad spectrum of gambling activities in South Korea.
This collaborative effort between the government and industry stakeholders marks a potential turning point for South Korea’s gambling landscape, with implications for both operators and patrons. As the industry moves towards greater transparency and social responsibility, players can expect changes in how gambling services are delivered and regulated in the coming years.
[Kang Daeho, MK Sports Reporter]
