Seoul, Mar 17: South Korea has introduced an enhanced reward-based reporting system to curb illegal sports betting, encouraging citizens to provide information on unauthorised gambling activities.
The initiative is being overseen by Korea Sports Leisure Co., Ltd., which operates a dedicated reporting centre for illegal sports gambling.
Officials said the move aims to strengthen enforcement efforts against underground betting networks that continue to operate online despite strict regulations.
Under the scheme, individuals can report illegal gambling activities through an online portal or hotline, sharing details about operators, users or promoters of unauthorised platforms.
Informants are encouraged to submit verifiable evidence, including website information and transaction details, to assist investigations.
Authorities have structured rewards based on the seriousness of the offence.
The highest payout, up to approximately $150,000, is offered for information leading to action against operators of illegal betting networks.
Additional incentives are available for reporting match-fixing in sports events, with lower-tier rewards for identifying related offences such as promotion or facilitation of illegal gambling services.
The system also allows reporting of bank or payment accounts used in illegal betting transactions, with fixed incentives per verified case.
Officials said safeguards have been introduced to prevent misuse of the scheme, including limiting rewards for duplicate reports of the same operation.
The expanded programme reflects growing concern among regulators over the risks posed by illegal gambling, including financial harm to users and threats to the integrity of sports.
Authorities expressed hope that increased public participation will help dismantle illegal networks and strengthen oversight of the country’s regulated sports betting environment.
