TLDR 5,838 people aged 19 or younger received gambling-related assistance in South Korea last year. Illegal online gambling accounted for 57.7% of the reported teen cases. Only 1,235 of 24,474 high-risk teens were referred to the Korea Problem Gambling Agency in 2025. A 2025 youth survey found 4% of 13,481 surveyed students had gambled at least once. A new law now requires gambling prevention education twice a year for elementary, middle, and high school students.
South Korea has released new data showing a rise in the number of teenagers seeking help for gambling problems. The figures come from the National Gambling Control Commission and were shared with Democratic Party lawmaker Lim Oh-kyeong.
According to the data, 5,838 individuals aged 19 or younger received gambling-related assistance during the year under review. This number reflects teens who were already identified and given support.
Online gambling made up the largest share of these cases. Illegal gambling through internet platforms was responsible for 57.7% of the reports.
Gap Between High-Risk Teens and Referrals
The data also points to a gap between teens identified as at risk and those who actually receive help. In 2025, 24,474 teenagers were classified as high-risk for gambling-related issues.
Out of that group, only 1,235 were referred to the Korea Problem Gambling Agency. The agency provides prevention programs, counseling, and rehabilitation services.
Lim said more work is needed to make sure young people get counseling and treatment sooner. He noted that identifying a problem is only part of the process.
Families, schools, and other systems also need to make sure teens can reach the support services that already exist. Without referrals, many at-risk teens may not get help at all.
Survey Findings on Youth Gambling Exposure
A separate government survey backed up these concerns. The Korea Problem