Voluntary reports of youth online gambling in South Korea rose by 74 percent in the second month of a nationwide reporting program, according to Korean National Police Agency data cited by Yonhap News Agency.
Authorities received 512 reports during the second month, up from 294 in the first. A total of 806 cases were recorded between May 18th and mid-July, comprising 629 reports from young gamblers and 177 from parents or guardians.
The cases revealed links between underage gambling, illegal lending and theft.
An 18-year-old reportedly borrowed KRW5 million ($3,500) from more than 10 illegal lenders to fund his gambling. The loans carried an annual interest rate of 200 percent. The teenager later reported threats and unlawful debt-collection practices.
In another case, a 14-year-old deposited KRW26 million ($18,100) into online gambling sites. He allegedly borrowed KRW2 million ($1,400) from 41 classmates.
Police also received a report involving a 14-year-old who allegedly withdrew KRW30 million ($20,900) from his father’s bank account to gamble.
The Youth Cyber Gambling Voluntary Reporting Program covers people under 19 and their guardians. Participants may be connected with addiction treatment, psychiatric care and debt-adjustment services.
Authorities plan to operate the initiative until August 31st, with reports accepted through the country’s 117 school violence reporting and counseling service.
