Korea: GRAC strengthens illegal gambling enforcement

South Korea's Game Rating and Administration Committee (GRAC) increased its enforcement activity against illegal gambling and gaming operations during the first half of 2026.

The regulator provided field support in 248 crackdowns targeting illegal gambling PC cafes, representing an increase of 48 cases, or 24%, from the same period last year.

GRAC also supported 1,220 enforcement cases through illegal game analysis, up 194 cases or 18.9% year-on-year, as authorities responded to increasingly diverse methods used by illegal operators.

Police training was another area of expansion. During the six-month period, GRAC conducted 54 training sessions covering illegal game enforcement techniques for 1,049 police officers. Participation increased by 591 officers, or 129%, compared with H1 2025.

The activity follows an internal restructuring implemented on February 1, which was designed to strengthen user protection and post-management functions.

GRAC has also been following up on previously identified violations. After reinspecting illegal gambling PC cafes that breached facility standards during the second half of 2025, it asked relevant local governments to take administrative action against 109 businesses where repeated violations were identified.

Meanwhile, the regulator has been working with authorities to address unregistered internet computer game facilities operating inside hotel rooms. This has included discussions with PC cafe associations and major accommodation booking platforms, alongside cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. 

GRAC has additionally introduced changes to its blocking and reporting systems, including a three-strikes rule, interim assessments and revised guidelines for its illegal game reporting reward program.

In the second half of 2026, GRAC plans to continue public education and enforcement cooperation, including online campaigns and joint promotional activity at gaming exhibition G-Star.