Authorities have apprehended individuals suspected of operating a sophisticated criminal enterprise that lured users with child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and illegal pornography before directing them to their own illegal gambling websites, amassing an estimated 470 billion won (approximately $340 million USD) in illicit profits. The Seoul Cyber Investigation Unit announced on the 12th that two suspects, identified as Mr. A (40) and Mr. B (36), have been arrested and sent for prosecution on charges including violations of the Juvenile Protection Act, the Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence, the Information and Communications Network Act, and the Criminal Act concerning the establishment of a gambling venue.
Sophisticated Criminal Operation Uncovered
Investigators allege that from August 2019 to the present, the suspects managed over ten illegal websites that either hosted CSAM or promoted gambling activities. These sites were presented as solutions under the guise of a company named ‘AGA Global,’ with operations allegedly based in the Philippines and other foreign locations. This setup allowed them to circumvent domestic law enforcement efforts.
Traditionally, illegal websites generate revenue through banner advertisements placed by other illicit sites. However, this particular group adopted a more direct and predatory model. They operated their own CSAM and illegal pornography sites, such as ‘Jogaemoa’ and ‘YadongKorea,’ specifically to attract users. These users were then funneled into the suspects’ own gambling promotion sites, like ‘Meokjuso’ and ‘WorldSlot,’ effectively creating a captive audience for their illegal betting operations.
Scale of Illegal Content and User Engagement
The illegal content sites allegedly managed by the suspects were substantial. Investigations revealed approximately 116,250 video files were hosted on these platforms. The user engagement was equally staggering, with an estimated 2.85 million registered accounts and a cumulative total of 5.3 billion page views across the sites. This massive user base was then strategically directed to the gambling platforms.
Massive Gambling Revenue and Corporate Structure
The gambling sites, including ‘Garden Casino’ and ‘GoldenView Casino,’ reportedly saw a total betting volume of approximately 477.34 billion won over the five years the organization operated. Police estimate that the organization profited around 47.6 billion won from these operations, considering deposits, wagers, and withdrawal amounts. The suspects are believed to have structured their organization like a legitimate corporation, complete with a division of labor.
Mr. C (54), described as the ringleader, allegedly oversaw the entire operation. Beneath him were various managers responsible for different aspects, including site management, financial oversight, and domestic and international development teams. Notably, Mr. B, who reportedly holds a doctorate in computer science, was in charge of the development, management, and maintenance of the websites. He is also accused of using virtual servers to evade detection by investigative agencies.
International Cooperation and Arrests
The investigation was initiated in November of the previous year following a tip from a female victim associated with one of the gambling sites. Through cyber investigations and collaboration with international law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Europol, authorities identified Mr. A and Mr. B as key figures operating from the Philippines.
Mr. A was apprehended at Incheon International Airport on the 2nd as he attempted to enter South Korea. Mr. B was arrested at his residence the following day. The ten illegal websites operated by the suspects were shut down on the 4th.
Ongoing Investigations and Future Plans
Authorities are currently seeking the extradition of Mr. C, who is believed to be abroad, through Interpol. The investigation is also expanding to include other members of the organization, such as site operators and development personnel.
In response to the growing threat of digital sex crimes, the National Police Agency’s National Investigation Headquarters plans to establish a consultative body. This body will collaborate with relevant organizations, including the Korea Communications Standards Commission and the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, to enhance the investigation and tracking of illegal websites and to protect victims of digital sex offenses.
