South Korea could delay until late 2026 a reform that would raise the maximum casino contribution to the Tourism Promotion and Development Fund from 10% to 15% and require licences to be renewed every five years, as the government continues consultations with operators and tourism associations.
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The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST), led by Choi Hwi-young, had intended to introduce the bill in September, but as of September 9, 2026, the text had not yet been formally submitted to the National Assembly. The office of lawmaker Cho Gye-won, a member of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee, had also not received a final draft. The timetable is complicated by Chuseok, from September 24 to 27, and the government’s annual parliamentary audit, scheduled for October 6 to 27.
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The proposal would amend the Tourism Promotion Act. Casinos currently contribute up to 10% of GGR to the tourism fund. The government is considering a new upper band taxed at 15% only on revenue exceeding a threshold that has yet to be officially defined, meaning the rate would not automatically apply to total GGR. The package would also introduce five-year licence renewals and prior approval for certain changes involving controlling shareholders.
Shin Jong-ho
The Korea Casino Association, whose secretary general is Shin Jong-ho, opposes the tougher framework and warns it could discourage investment. Ten tourism organisations, including casino, hotel and travel associations, have also called for the proposal to be withdrawn.
South Korea had 18 casinos in 2025, including Kangwon Land, the only venue open to local players, as well as foreigner-only properties such as Paradise City, Walkerhill Casino, Inspire Entertainment Resort and Jeju Dream Tower Casino.
The market generated KRW3.70 trillion in GGR, up 14.6%. Foreigner-only casinos produced KRW2.26 trillion, up 21.6%, while Kangwon Land reached KRW1.43 trillion, up 5%. Foreigner-only operators paid KRW367.1 billion in taxes and public funds in 2025, while Kangwon Land contributed KRW603.3 billion.
