The number of teenagers in South Korea receiving treatment or counselling for gambling problems rose sharply in 2025, with official data showing a 40.9% increase compared with the previous year.
A total of 5,838 people aged 19 and below received gambling-related counselling or treatment last year, according to data from the National Gambling Control Commission cited by lawmaker Lim Oh-kyeong.
Illegal online gambling drives concern
Illegal online gambling accounted for the largest share of cases, making up 57.7% of the reported problems among teenagers. The figures have renewed concern about the growing accessibility of gambling through mobile phones and online platforms.
The scale of the problem appears broader than the number receiving professional help. According to the same data, 24,474 teenagers were classified as a high-risk group for gambling in 2025. However, only 1,235 were referred to the Korea Problem Gambling Agency, which provides prevention, counselling and rehabilitation services.
Earlier cases show growing risks
South Korean authorities have previously reported cases involving illegal gambling platforms that specifically attracted teenagers. In one investigation, police found that more than 100 middle and high school students had used an illegal gambling website, with users aged between 13 and 18.
The growing availability of illegal betting has also raised concerns about financial losses, disrupted education and exposure to other forms of crime.
Lawmaker Lim has called for improvements to the country’s prevention policies, saying stronger systems are needed to identify vulnerable teenagers and connect them with appropriate support.
The latest figures have placed renewed attention on the need for early intervention, awareness among families and schools, and accessible counselling for young people affected by gambling.