Illegal gambling dens spread in Seoul’s Chinatown

A network hiding in plain sight

The activity centers on Garibong-dong in Guro-gu and Daerim-dong in Yeongdeungpo-gu. These neighborhoods include old commercial buildings and narrow residential streets. According to the report, dozens of gambling dens now operate close together.

Many venues sit inside buildings built nearly fifty years ago. From the street, entrances look quiet and ordinary. Guards often stand nearby and watch who goes inside. Koreans are reportedly denied entry — a rule enforced openly.

Small signs appear along nearby roads at regular intervals. They use simple phrases understood within Chinese communities. One common phrase translates as “senior activity room” — widely known as slang for gambling. Other signs point to games offered inside.

The report highlights several common labels used on these signs:

• “Senior activity room” used as coded gambling language

• Slot machine rooms listed in Chinese characters

• Mahjong or board game rooms named as leisure spaces

What happens inside the dens

A two-day survey reportedly identified more than 100 gambling venues. That figure suggests a wide and organized presence. Slot machines and mahjong tables operate for long hours. Players often remain inside far longer than expected.

Some gambling dens appear linked to unregistered guesthouses upstairs. In one building, a gambling floor operated below illegal lodging rooms. After gambling ended around midnight, players moved upstairs to rest briefly.

They often returned the next morning to continue playing. Daily lodging fees were low, which encouraged repeat visits. This setup links illegal gambling with illegal housing — making control more difficult.

Laws are clear, action appears limited

South Korea allows gambling only at 17 licensed casinos nationwide. Foreign residents may gamble only inside those approved locations. Any other gambling remains illegal, regardless of who takes part.

Despite clear rules, enforcement appears strained. Data submitted to the National Assembly shows monitored illegal gambling sites rose from 273 in 2022 to 909 in 2024. Over the same period, on-site crackdowns declined.

Officials say many Chinese-run dens use tight control systems. Lookouts watch entrances and restrict access. These measures may allow operators to pause activity during inspections — leaving little proof behind.

Growing concern among residents

Residents and policymakers express concern about safety and social impact. The visible signs add to public frustration. Hence, pressure grows for stronger and more focused enforcement.

Police continue surveillance — but results remain uneven. The spread appears quiet, organized, and steady. For now, Seoul’s Chinatown shows how illegal activity can continue openly when control weakens.