The Korea Center on Gambling Problems (KCGP) recently reported a concerning trend in South Korea, with the number of teenagers receiving gambling addiction counseling doubling over the past four years. According to data cited by The Korea Times, the number of teens seeking help for gambling addiction rose from 1,286 in 2020 to 2,665 by the end of August 2024. Additionally, the percentage of “problem level” gamblers with severe addiction increased from 65.1% in 2020 to 66.4% in 2024.
One alarming statistic revealed by the KCGP is the growing popularity of online casinos among teens. While participation in sports betting remained relatively stable, the number of teens engaging in online casino gambling surged from 8.9% in 2020 to 59% in 2023. This shift highlights the need for stricter regulations and enforcement measures to address the rise of online gambling platforms targeting young people.
In response to the KCGP’s findings, Representative Cho Gye-won of the Democratic Party of Korea called for tougher penalties and increased efforts to shut down illegal gambling websites. Cho emphasized the importance of integrating gambling addiction prevention into the school curriculum to raise awareness and support young people in making informed choices about gambling.
The data also revealed a concerning trend regarding the difficulty teens face in giving up gambling. The percentage of teens who successfully quit gambling decreased from 49.2% in 2020 to 24.9% in 2023, indicating a growing challenge in overcoming addiction. This highlights the need for comprehensive support systems and resources to assist teens in breaking free from harmful gambling habits.
The KCGP’s report underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to address the growing issue of teenage gambling addiction in South Korea. By implementing stricter regulations, increasing educational initiatives, and providing support for those struggling with addiction, stakeholders can work together to mitigate the impact of gambling on young people and promote healthier behaviors.
Overall, the KCGP’s data serves as a wake-up call to policymakers, educators, and parents to prioritize the well-being of young people and take decisive action to prevent and address the harmful effects of gambling addiction on the next generation. By working collaboratively, society can create a safer and more supportive environment for teens to make healthy choices and avoid the pitfalls of excessive gambling.