Content Writer: Janice Chew • Tuesday, 26/08/2026 - 17:39:53 - PM
South Korean police have arrested 58 people accused of operating illegal online gambling websites that impersonated Kangwon Land, highlighting how sophisticated illegal betting operations are increasingly using established casino brands and new technologies to gain players’ trust.
According to the Gyeongbuk Provincial Police Agency, the network allegedly attracted around 40,000 South Korean users, while approximately KRW78 billion (US$55 million) was deposited into the sites between October 2022 and August 2025. Five suspects were reportedly detained.
Deepfakes Used to Promote Fake Casinos
The operation went beyond simply copying Kangwon Land’s name and logo.
Investigators said the group used deepfake videos featuring the faces and voices of well-known athletes, distributing the content through social media to make the platforms appear legitimate. The operators also allegedly rotated around 70 bank accounts registered under other people’s names to process deposits and withdrawals.
The deception was particularly effective because Kangwon Land occupies a unique position in South Korea. The company confirms that its land-based casino is the only casino in the country permitted to accept Korean nationals.
Police stressed that Kangwon Land does not operate an online gambling website.
A Growing Brand-Protection Challenge
The case demonstrates that illegal gambling is increasingly becoming a technology, cybersecurity and brand-protection problem, rather than simply an enforcement issue.
Artificial intelligence can now make fake endorsements and casino promotions considerably more convincing, while established gaming brands provide criminals with instant credibility.
For regulated casino operators, protecting trademarks online, monitoring fake websites and educating customers about official digital channels may therefore become increasingly important parts of responsible gaming and customer protection.
The arrests also come amid a broader South Korean crackdown on illegal online gambling, with police reporting thousands of suspects identified in recent enforcement campaigns.
