The government\\’s Transnational Crime Special Response Task Force successfully arrested 26 scam syndicate members operating in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, since February last year. These criminals impersonated Korean institutions such as the prosecution and financial regulators, deceiving victims into believing they were involved in crimes and confining them in hotels. The syndicate targeted Korean women, committing sexual exploitation crimes that shocked society. The arrests were achieved through active international cooperation and local law enforcement efforts.
The organization, based in Phnom Penh, defrauded 165 Korean nationals of a total of KRW 26.7 billion. The perpetrators isolated victims in hotels, cut off outside contact, and extorted money under the guise of asset investigations. They also forced victims to send photos or record sexual exploitation videos through persistent deception and psychological pressure. The crackdown was carried out on January 5, after the Korea Task Force and National Intelligence Service identified four locations, including offices and lodgings, and coordinated with local police.
Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong emphasized that this case demonstrates how scam crimes have evolved beyond financial damage to destroy victims\\’ lives through psychological manipulation and sexual exploitation. The government is taking immediate action to block sexual exploitation videos and thoroughly investigate all allegations. The perpetrators will be swiftly extradited to Korea for prosecution. Victims, especially women, will receive practical support and treatment through cooperation with agencies such as the Ministry of Justice Smile Center.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to strictly respond to transnational crimes, including digital sexual offenses, under President Lee Jae-myung\\’s directive. Severe accountability will be imposed on those who harm Korean citizens. This incident highlights the importance of international cooperation and rapid response, indicating an urgent need for institutional improvements in victim protection and crime prevention. Enhanced monitoring and response to similar crimes are expected in the future.