A recent investigation has uncovered a growing network of illegal gambling dens in Seoul that exclude Korean citizens, instead targeting Chinese residents and visitors, according to a report by Chosun Daily. These establishments, located primarily in Garibong-dong, Guro-gu, have reportedly proliferated alongside increases in the local Chinese population and tourist flows, with more than 100 operations identified featuring slot machines and mahjong tables that prohibit entry to Koreans, allowing only those with Chinese identification to gamble.
MGM China has announced it will grant a one-month discretionary bonus to eligible team members in Macau, with payments to be made ahead of the Lunar New Year. The bonus applies to the majority of employees at MGM China Holdings, in line with established industry practice among Macau’s concessionaires at the start of each year, and reflects the company’s recognition of staff contributions during 2025.
Wynn Macau Ltd has announced a Special Allowance equivalent to one month’s gross salary for eligible team members at both Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace, with distribution scheduled for 30 January 2026. The company’s workforce of approximately 11,552 staff means that about 98 % of employees will benefit from this allowance, which is being positioned as a show of appreciation for their efforts over the past year.
Melco Resorts & Entertainment has announced that it will award a one-month discretionary bonus to eligible non-management employees in Macau and Hong Kong, with payments expected to be completed by the end of January 2026. This follows a common trend among Macau’s gaming operators, where year-end bonuses are typically paid at the start of the new year as a token of appreciation for employees’ contributions.
Chen Zhi, the controversial head of Cambodia’s Prince Group and accused architect of one of Asia’s largest online scam networks, has been arrested in Cambodia and extradited to China following months of transnational law-enforcement cooperation. Cambodian authorities, acting on China’s request, apprehended Chen and two other Chinese nationals in January 2026, revoked his Cambodian citizenship, and transferred them into Chinese custody amid mounting international pressure to crack down on widespread scam operations allegedly linked to his enterprises.
Author: Janice Chew • Friday, 09/01/2026
