'Consultations Up 15%': Korea Center on Gambling Problems Strengthens Prevention Campaigns

Rise in Addiction Prevention Consultations and Response Status

Korea Center on Gambling Problems Announces 15% Increase in Annual Consultations

Strengthening Community Networks for Early Detection of High-Risk Groups

Expansion of Integrated Online and Offline Addiction Prevention Channels

[K-Journal | Reporter Choi Ye-bang]

A systematic approach to addiction prevention is becoming more critical than ever. According to data recently released by the Korea Center on Gambling Problems and Healing, the number of gambling-related consultation requests increased by 15% last year compared to the previous year. This suggests both heightened social awareness regarding gambling issues and an increase in users voluntarily seeking help.

Strategies for Enhancing Accessibility to Counseling Services

In response to rising demand, the Korea Center on Gambling Problems and Healing has implemented various measures to improve accessibility. The existing '1336' helpline has been transitioned to a 24-hour operation system, and non-face-to-face counseling services via mobile messengers have been significantly expanded. Furthermore, by strengthening field-oriented counseling centered around 15 regional centers nationwide, the organization has ensured that users can receive immediate assistance near their residences. Experts believe that increasing access to these services is a crucial first step in breaking the cycle of addiction.

Community Cooperation Systems for Addiction Prevention

The Importance of Building Community Networks

Critics point out that addiction prevention has limitations if left to a single institution. Consequently, the Korea Center on Gambling Problems and Healing is building multifaceted cooperative networks with local governments, police agencies, and offices of education. In particular, to strengthen prevention education for youth, the center has regularized programs that inform students about the risks of gambling in partnership with schools. These community-based prevention activities contribute to recognizing addiction not as an individual deviation, but as a public health issue.

Early Detection System for High-Risk Groups

Systems to detect high-risk groups early for proactive prevention are also in operation. By cooperating with financial institutions to monitor suspected inflows of gambling funds and sending counseling guidance texts when necessary, the center is attempting proactive responses. This system acts as a bridge, connecting users to experts before they fall deeply into the trap of addiction.

Future Outlook and Tasks for Addiction Prevention Policy

Efforts to Establish a Responsible Gambling Culture

Future addiction prevention policies are expected to focus on technological improvements and cultural awareness. As gambling becomes more accessible in digital environments, key tasks include advancing AI-based anomaly detection technology and fostering a responsible gambling environment in cooperation with private enterprises. Relevant authorities plan to strengthen self-exclusion programs for user protection even within legal industries such as casinos.

Improving Social Awareness and the Value of Prevention

Addiction prevention must move beyond simple treatment toward the establishment of a healthy leisure culture in which all members of society participate. An official from the Korea Center on Gambling Problems and Healing stated, "Gambling is a condition that can be fully recovered from if detected early and treated with professional counseling," adding that "erasing social stigma and building an active support system for prevention is the responsible industry image that K-Journal pursues."