Pro gamer Faker, also known as Lee Sang-hyuk, has taken on the role of an honorary police officer to help prevent youth cyber gambling.
On July 22, the National Police Agency appointed Lee as an honorary police officer and ambassador for cyber gambling prevention at a ceremony held in the Seodaemun District of Seoul. Lee was given the rank of sergeant, one step above a police officer, reflecting the nature of the cyber gambling prevention work, which aligns with the entry rank for police officers in cyber investigation roles.
The police chose Lee due to his significant influence among young people. They noted that through his long career as a professional gamer, he has demonstrated values of self-discipline, focus, and restraint, which can positively impact youth both domestically and internationally.
Lee will participate in creating promotional videos and posters to raise awareness about the self-reporting system for youth cyber gambling until August. During the appointment ceremony, he also presented a signed T1 uniform to be given to youths who have actively participated in recovery programs for gambling addiction.
The National Police Agency has been operating a self-reporting system for youth cyber gambling since May 18, which will run until August 31. As of July 16, there have been 806 reports, an increase of 512 from the 294 reports received in the first month of the program.
The reporting system is aimed at youths under 19 who have experienced cyber gambling, as well as their guardians. Reports can be submitted through the 117 School Violence Reporting and Counseling Center. Once a report is received, school liaison officers and specialized gambling counselors conduct initial consultations and screenings, connecting individuals to addiction treatment facilities based on the results.
Self-reporting does not lead to criminal penalties. The police will consider the amount of money used for gambling, the individual's attitude of remorse, and the recovery process before determining whether to offer leniency through a review committee that includes external experts. If illegal financial activities, such as proxy deposits, are confirmed, support for victim recovery will be coordinated with the Financial Integration Support Center.
This initiative was piloted in eight provincial police agencies starting in 2024, beginning with the Daejeon Police Agency. During that time, 512 youths who participated in cyber gambling were connected to recovery programs, with only four, or 0.8%, relapsing within three months. The government believes that the self-reporting system is effective in identifying and addressing gambling issues early, leading to its nationwide expansion.
Lee expressed, "I feel a great sense of responsibility being appointed as an honorary police officer and ambassador. I will actively participate in raising awareness about the dangers of cyber gambling and the self-reporting system among youth."
Acting Police Chief Yoo Jae-sung stated, "It is crucial to start counseling and treatment for youth gambling issues before they escalate. We hope Lee's influence will encourage young people to come forward and report their experiences."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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