Gambling Age In Republic of Korea

Minimum Age: 19

Details and Explanation

Legal Age Requirement: In the Republic of Korea, the minimum legal age for participating in gambling activities is 19. This applies to casinos, lotteries, and betting, as per the Tourism Promotion Act, enforced to protect minors.

Offline / Land-Based Gambling: Land-based gambling is legal for foreigners, with 17 casinos (e.g., Paradise Walkerhill) offering slots, poker, and table games, aligning with your interest in extensive game catalogs. Lotteries and sports betting (Sports Toto) are available for locals, requiring ID checks for the 19-year-old age limit. The casino market, valued at KRW 2 trillion annually, supports tourism.

Online Gambling: Online gambling is illegal, with the National Conference for Unification prohibiting remote gambling. Offshore sites contribute to a $1 billion unregulated market in 2024, with players facing risks without legal protections, aligning with unregulated markets you’ve explored. Website blocking is enforced, with players risking fines up to KRW 5 million.

Regulation and Oversight: The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism regulates gambling, ensuring anti-money laundering measures. South Korea’s framework, less rigorous than Kahnawake’s, supports a $3 billion gambling economy, with 2024 reforms tightening advertising rules.

Enforcement and Penalties: South Korea enforces regulations moderately. Operators face fines up to KRW 50 million or imprisonment for violations like underage gambling. Illegal websites are blocked, and players face fines. The 2025 responsible gambling initiatives ensure a controlled environment.