Alarming Surge in Teen Gambling Raises Concerns in South Korea

The National Center for Youth Internet Addiction Treatment, operated by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, is the sole institution offering rehabilitation programs. Unfortunately, the 12-day program designed to help gambling addicts is proving challenging for many young participants. According to Shim Yong-chool, the center's director, a significant number of teenagers quit before completing the program, highlighting the struggle to aid the growing number of problem players.

Young players are particularly susceptible to developing gambling addictions, with data showing a staggering 75% increase in teenagers seeking treatment over the past four years. The recent crackdown on online gambling by the National Police Agency resulted in the arrest of 353 individuals, including 39 juveniles. A survey indicates that 28,838 teenagers are at risk of developing gambling problems.

Experts, including Lee Hae-kook from the Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine, emphasize that teenagers, deeply immersed in the digital sector, face higher risks. Early internet exposure increases the likelihood of encountering gambling content and engaging in such activities. Lee Byung-chul, a professor from Hallym University College of Medicine, warns that even prompt treatment for gambling addiction in young people can lead to serious problems in neurological development. He advocates for state-funded systems connecting schools, mental health institutions, and youth facilities.