How K-Film Industry Interprets Ban on Gambling in South Korea

While gambling is quickly gaining popularity and becoming legalised in many regions, the addiction problem is also growing, even in South Korea. Therefore, governments and responsible authorities face different challenges that should be addressed in the near future. Decreasing gambling addiction rates is on the agenda, and implementing all the available measures is important.

Is Gambling Legal in Korea?

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Casinos, both online and offline, are prohibited within the country. Locals are not allowed to gamble in any form. However, there are still over 15 land-based gaming houses in Korea. The thing is that only tourists are allowed to visit and play in these establishments. Lack of regulations and self-exclusion tools are the reasons why casinos are banned for locals.

Programs like GamStop significantly lower the problem of compulsive gambling, so their implementation is important in all gaming markets. However, there are other ways of informing the public about the consequences of uncontrolled gambling. Because even the presence of self-exclusion tools doesn`t stop players from using casinos without GamStop. GamStop-free websites researched by Bradley Oliva are widely popular in the UK. These websites are suitable for responsible punters but not recommended for individuals facing gambling-related issues.

So, Korean movies are one of the efficient methods, as they show the negative outcomes of this risky activity. So, what to watch to learn the problem from the inside?

How Korean Movies Show Gambling Is Dangerous?

Gambling-based shows are always popular, as they often have an interesting, intricate plot and an unexpected ending. Of course, these are first of all exciting movies. On the other hand, it is a way to inform the public about the harmful effects of uncontrolled casino gambling. The top-3 movies every risk fan should watch are described below.

"Time to Hunt"

"Time to Hunt" is one of the most popular movies about gambling in Korea. A group of friends is trying to come up with a gamble to cover their debts and live their happy lives. Poker seems the best option: high stakes in this game are a perfect solution to win a lot of money and achieve their goals. Guys were planning a robbery, but something went wrong. They get involved with a dangerous criminal from the gambling world, and since then, their problems have not been limited by huge debts. They are searching for ways to escape this mess and save their lives. Was it worth it, and will the protagonists be able to resolve the problem?

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"Time to Hunt" is directed by Yoon Sung-hyun, and features Lee Je-hoon, Ahn Jae-hong, Choi Wooshik, Park Jung-min, Park Hae-soo, Lee Hang-na. Release date in Korea: 2020/04/23.

 

"Tazza: The Hidden Card"

This plot can be considered classic: a young man named Go-ni engages in the gambling world after losing all his savings. For the protagonist, casinos seem the way to get money quickly. The protagonist succeeds in playing and becomes a professional under the guidance of an experienced conman. But the movie wouldn't be exciting if the hero just won the money and stopped, right? Go-ni is involved in a gambling scheme with incredibly high stakes. The game can be fatal for the one who loses, so the protagonist basically risks everything.

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"Tazza: The Hidden Card" is directed by Kang Hyeong-cheol, and features Choi Seung-hyun, Shin Se-kyung, Kwak Do-won, Lee Hanee, Yoo Hae-jin, Kim Yun-seok. Release date in Korea: 2014/09/03.

 

"Tazza: The High Rollers"

"Tazza: The High Rollers" is must-watch movie a criminal movie about Go-ni, a passionate gambler playing the Korean hwatu game. The protagonist wants to hit the jackpot, but success doesn't come. He loses all his savings and starts stealing money from his family. Of course, he invests everything till the last cent into his favourite game. Go-ni is a classic example of a gambling addict who cannot stop and constantly deposits, being confident the desired winning is about to come.

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"Tazza: The High Rollers" is directed by Choi Dong-hoon, and features Cho Seung-woo, Kim Hye-soo, Baek Yoon-sik, Yoo Hae-jin, Kim Eung-soo, Kim Sang-ho. Release date in Korea: 2006/09/27.

 

Spoiler: The protagonist didn't give up his hobby or realise it's harmful. So, now you can see why gambling is prohibited in South Korea!

How Can Korea Prevent Problem Gambling?

Online and offline casinos are prohibited in numerous countries, including Korea. However, passionate players still find ways to enjoy their favourite pastimes. And there's the need to cope with problem gambling rates. Have a look at the most effective measures that can be implemented to deal with the issue:

• Informing players about the consequences of irresponsible gambling.
• Implementation of self-exclusion mechanisms like GamStop.
• Controlling activities of land-based casinos and online gaming sites.
• Setting deposit and bet limits for gamblers to avoid losing the bankroll.
• Providing support groups for individuals at risk.

All these tools have already shown efficiency in coping with compulsive gaming. Moreover, it's important for governments to add appropriate regulations to control the activity. Both virtual and land-based casinos create risks for players.

Final Insight

The gambling world is exciting and beckons players with bright games, impressive bonuses, and the chance of enormous winnings. However, this innocent entertainment in South Korea can be dangerous for players and their loved ones. Preventing gambling addiction and decreasing the percentage of affected people is essential in multiple countries. Moreover, it's a great idea to find independent ways of informing the public about the possible adverse outcomes. Korean gambling movies are one example of how to show the harmful impact of casino games.