Seoul, South Korea – Kiwoom Securities CEO Um Ju-sung has joined a growing campaign aimed at curbing illegal online gambling among youth in South Korea, a problem authorities say is increasingly prevalent. The initiative, spearheaded by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, seeks to raise public awareness about the dangers of cyber gambling and its impact on young people.
Um’s participation, announced on March 20, 2026, comes as part of a “relay campaign” where leaders from various sectors pledge their support and nominate others to join the effort. He was recommended by Kim Kyu-bin, CEO of Toss Securities, and has in turn nominated Ko Kyung-mo, CEO of Eugene Investment & Securities, and Kang Jin-doo, CEO of KB Securities, to continue the chain. This youth gambling prevention campaign reflects a broader concern about the accessibility of online gambling platforms and their potential to exploit vulnerable individuals.
The Rising Threat of Cyber Gambling
According to authorities, illegal cyber gambling is no longer simply a recreational activity for young people, but a serious crime with significant social consequences. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency launched the campaign in response to the increasing number of cases involving minors and the ease with which they can access these platforms online. The campaign aims to highlight the deceptive nature of these operations, emphasizing that they are designed to defraud participants.
Um Ju-sung echoed this sentiment, stating, “Illegal cyber gambling targeting youth is not simply a pastime, but a serious crime and a social problem.” He further pledged that Kiwoom Securities would continue its social contribution activities to support future generations develop sound economic understanding and responsible financial habits. This commitment aligns with a growing trend among South Korean financial institutions to prioritize financial literacy and ethical conduct.
Kiwoom Securities’ Existing Financial Education Initiatives
Kiwoom Securities has already implemented several programs designed to promote financial literacy among young people. The company publishes the “Pengsu Goes to School” book series, which aims to instill proper values regarding money and financial independence in children. They offer the “Kiwoom Dreamer” financial education program, designed to enhance financial literacy among teenagers. These initiatives demonstrate a proactive approach to addressing the root causes of financial vulnerability.
Stakeholder Response and Campaign Momentum
The campaign has garnered support from various leaders in the financial sector, signaling a collective commitment to addressing the issue. The relay format encourages widespread participation and amplifies the message across different networks. The participation of CEOs from major securities firms like KB Securities and Eugene Investment & Securities is expected to further boost the campaign’s visibility and impact.
Participants in the campaign are sharing the message: “Illegal cyber gambling targeting youth is an unsolvable fraudulent crime.” This concise message aims to cut through the allure of online gambling and highlight the inherent risks involved. The campaign’s success hinges on its ability to reach young people and educate them about the dangers of these platforms.
Looking Ahead
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency will continue to lead the campaign, with ongoing participation from industry leaders and public figures. The next steps involve expanding the reach of the campaign through social media and educational programs. Kiwoom Securities and other participating companies are expected to announce further initiatives aimed at promoting financial literacy and responsible financial behavior among youth. The focus will remain on preventing young people from falling victim to illegal online gambling schemes and fostering a culture of financial responsibility.
This ongoing effort to combat youth gambling underscores the importance of collaboration between government, financial institutions, and the private sector. Share your thoughts on this important initiative and help spread awareness by sharing this article.
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