From Criminal Code to K-Drama: Why South Korea Bans Gambling and How “Squid Game” Reveals the Consequences
- lewishooper1
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
We take a deep look into the legal, cultural, and historical reasons behind South Korea's near-total ban on gambling, even when citizens are abroad! We also explore how the popular Korean drama, Squid Game, exposes the consequences of gambling addiction in South Korea.
Have you ever visited an international hotel in Korea? If so, then you will have most likely noticed a Casino within its vicinity; however, you may not have known that gambling inside and outside of Korea is illegal for Koreans, and to enter a casino in Korea, you must show your foreign ID or overseas resident card.
The Unique Casino Exception
Korea actually operates over 20 casinos, but all except one are strictly reserved for foreigners and long-term expatriates. The sole exception for South Korean citizens is the remote Kangwon Land Casino, which was established under a special act. This unique allowance was specifically designed to economically aid the development of an abandoned mining region in Gangwon Province, which is very isolated compared to the rest of Korea.
Global Jurisdiction
Korean law holds extraterritorial jurisdiction over its citizens, meaning the gambling ban applies even when they are abroad. A South Korean national who engages in habitual gambling overseas, even in countries where it is legal, can still face prosecution upon returning home. This strict stance can result in jail time and substantial fines for offenders under the "Habitual Overseas Gambler Law". But can this really be policed?
Social and Economic Protection
The Korean government's main aim is to protect its citizens from gambling addiction and debt, as well as other widespread economic issues that can be found in other countries. In addition, the ban reflects a deep-rooted cultural taboo against engaging in games for money.
The Underground Crime World in K-dramas
Gambling in K-dramas is often shown as a dark and high stakes passion which is mostly run by gangs or powerful thugs. In K-dramas gambling is often shown taking place in secret dens or prison based poker rings, unlike in real life where casinos offer a relaxing and fun environment for many.
Police or judicial crackdowns on these underground operations are common plot points, reflecting the government's strict anti-gambling stance, and a view that is biased in K-dramas.
Protagonist Fuelled by Addiction - Squid Game
Another K-drama that shows the dark side of gambling is the hit global series Squid Game is immediately catalyzed by the main protagonist, Seong Gi-hun, who is a severe gambling addict with insurmountable debt. This is one of the reasons why he entered the deadly games. The series opens by showing him desperately betting on horse races and stealing from his own mother to feed his compulsion. The games offer him a chance to pay off his debts and clear his name with the underground lenders and start a fresh start, or so he thinks!
What do you think of these tough laws? Comment below and let the Dojeon team know!