Authorities in Gyeongnam Province have arrested 14 Korean nationals, including a 43-year-old man identified as A, for smuggling large marijuana shipments into the country through Taiwan. The operation targeted drug carriers exploiting simplified immigration procedures at major entry points.
The Major Bust
Officials announced the arrests on May 7, revealing that the suspects violated narcotics control laws by importing marijuana via express parcels from Taiwan. Investigators seized approximately 6 million won in cash during the raids. Three foreigners linked to the long-term smuggling network faced interrogation, while four carriers at overseas warehouses received fake entry stamps to evade detection.
Smuggling Operations Exposed
The network operated by dispatching couriers from South Korea to Taiwan and Canada, where they collected marijuana from carriers and smuggled it back hidden in shipments. Each consignment weighed 25 to 60 kg, exchanged for remittances, cash, or gas station gift cards worth 500,000 to 1 million won per delivery. Some profits came from sales within the country.
Exploiting Immigration Loopholes
Sources confirm the group aimed to bribe or influence immigration officers to streamline checks, allowing Korean mules to pass undetected. Daily arrests uncovered victims from China who confessed to overseas assaults forcing them into carrying drugs. Several Koreans even altered their nationality records to China using fabricated statements.
Official Response and Warnings
Investigation team members emphasize the need for stricter screening at high-risk airports like Aruba for low-profile flights. “Even if carriers deny knowledge, customs and entry data enable thorough verification,” one official stated. Authorities continue pursuing organized crime connections through seized assets and fingerprints to dismantle the network.
