The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency announced on July 15 that it had arrested a total of 149 individuals in connection with illegal drug transactions conducted through virtual assets. Seven suspects have been formally detained, and the confiscated substances—methamphetamine, ketamine, ecstasy, and synthetic cannabis—are equivalent to approximately 47,000 individual doses.
The criminal network leveraged social media platforms and illegal cryptocurrency exchanges to facilitate drug sales. Sellers advertised products via encrypted apps like Telegram and used GPS coordinates to share hidden drop-off locations with buyers. In some cases, traffickers smuggled drugs from Canada by concealing methamphetamine and ketamine in vitamin capsules shipped through express international couriers.
Cryptocurrencies were used as the primary payment method. Unlike standard exchanges, which charge transaction fees ranging from 0.05% to 0.25%, these illegal platforms demanded exorbitant fees of up to 20%. Through these operations, exchange operators reportedly earned around 374 million KRW (approx. $270,000), and police have secured court approval to freeze 422 million KRW (approx. $305,000) in criminal proceeds before indictment.
Of particular concern is that 92% of the buyers and users arrested were in their 20s and 30s, with some even in their teens. This highlights the increasing vulnerability of younger generations, who are more digitally connected and thus more exposed to online drug markets that offer anonymity and accessibility.
Authorities are now intensifying efforts through specialized cyber narcotics units, using digital forensics and crypto-tracing tools to combat these evolving criminal tactics. As the fusion of cryptocurrency and online platforms makes enforcement more complex, proactive and tech-driven responses are becoming increasingly essential.
A representative from the Seoul Metropolitan Police stated, “We will continue to crack down on drug distribution networks exploiting digital platforms and virtual currencies. Our goal is to preemptively dismantle criminal operations before they can adapt.”
This case underscores the urgent need for stronger regulations and public awareness as virtual assets—originally designed as investment vehicles—are increasingly exploited for illicit purposes.ok
