South Korea Offers Rewards for Reports on Illegal World Cup Betting Sites

South Korea’s National Gambling Control Commission has launched a campaign against illegal gambling websites ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

From 8 June to 31 July, South Korean residents can report illegal platforms that accept bets or provide gambling services to users in the country.

Authorities expect such websites to step up efforts to attract players during the World Cup, including minors.

Reports that lead to the blocking of an illegal site will qualify for a reward of 10,000 won, or about €5.70. If a report also includes details of a bank account used by the site’s operators, the reward will rise to 50,000 won, or around €28.50. Each reporter will be able to receive up to 600,000 won, or about €342, per month.

However, a link to the website alone will not be enough to qualify for a payment.

Reporters must provide login details for the platform, as well as evidence of illegal gambling activity, such as screenshots of bets, deposits, withdrawals or other transactions.

Reports will be reviewed with assistance from the police and South Korea’s communications and internet content regulator. If a website is blocked by the end of August, payments are expected to be made after checks in late September or early October.

Commission chairman Choi Byung-hwan said the World Cup should remain a “healthy sporting festival” and not be used as an opportunity to promote illegal gambling.