Addiction Prevention·07/28/26

'Consultations Surge 20%': National Gambling Control Commission Strengthens Infrastructure for Addiction Prevention

김선규편집국 기자·By

Results of Strengthening Addiction Prevention Counseling Infrastructure

NGCC Operates 16 Gambling Problem Prevention and Healing Centers Nationwide

Counseling volume increased by 20.4% year-on-year over the past year

Expansion of Customized Healing Programs for High-Risk Groups

[K-Journal | Reporter Choi Ye-bang]

Addiction prevention has become a core policy for the sound operation of the casino industry. The National Gambling Control Commission (NGCC) recently announced a significant strengthening of its nationwide counseling infrastructure to minimize the social side effects caused by gambling problems. According to the NGCC, the number of counseling sessions at the 16 nationwide Gambling Problem Prevention and Healing Centers increased by 20.4% last year compared to the previous year.

Response Strategies to Rising Counseling Demand

In response to the surge in demand, the NGCC has reorganized its response system by extending operating hours at existing centers and deploying additional professional counselors. In particular, as demand for non-face-to-face online counseling has grown, the commission has upgraded its 24-hour counseling channel via mobile applications. An NGCC official explained that the increase in counseling demand reflects improved social awareness of gambling problems and that the top priority is preventing the progression to severe addiction through early intervention.

SHOP THE LOOK: Gambling Prevention Center

Development Process of the Gambling Addiction Prevention and Healing System

Establishing an Early Detection System for High-Risk Groups

A systematic approach to addiction prevention begins with the early identification of high-risk individuals. The NGCC is prioritizing the provision of preventive education and counseling guidance to those restricted from entry, in connection with the 'self-exclusion system' installed at casino venues. This goes beyond simple regulation; it aims to create a responsible gambling environment that helps users monitor their own gaming habits.

Expansion of Community-Linked Programs

The NGCC is collaborating with local governments and community health centers to promote campaigns for improving awareness of gambling issues. To spread the perspective that gambling problems are not individual deviations but illnesses requiring social healing, the commission is strengthening preventive education for elementary, middle, and high schools. It is also adopting an integrated approach by introducing family counseling programs to manage environmental factors.

SHOP THE LOOK: Community Prevention Campaign

Future Direction and Outlook for Addiction Prevention Policy

Introduction of Technology-Based Addiction Management Systems

Looking ahead, the NGCC plans to upgrade its 'Responsible Gambling Management System,' which utilizes data analysis technology to monitor user gaming behavior patterns and provide real-time alerts when abnormal signs are detected. This is expected to overcome the limitations of human intervention and enable more precise preventive measures.

Strengthening Cooperation Between Industry and Authorities

Industry stakeholders recognize that addiction prevention is a prerequisite for the industry's sustainability and are strengthening their own responsible gambling programs. The NGCC plans to operate regular consultative bodies with casino operators to establish prevention policies that reflect field realities and intends to build a wider addiction prevention network through public-private cooperation. These efforts by authorities to establish a healthy gaming culture are expected to contribute to enhancing the social credibility of the casino industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I receive professional counseling for addiction prevention?+

Professional counseling for addiction prevention is available through the 16 Gambling Problem Prevention and Healing Centers operated by the National Gambling Control Commission. These centers provide free psychological counseling, healing programs, and social reintegration support for individuals struggling with gambling issues and their families. You can also request help anonymously via the 24-hour counseling hotline or online bulletin boards.

What is the role of casino operators in preventing gambling addiction?+

To prevent gambling addiction, casino operators must strictly adhere to responsible gambling programs. This includes operating self-limitation systems that allow users to restrict their own gaming time and spending, early detection and counseling guidance for users exhibiting abnormal signs, and placing promotional materials for addiction prevention within venues, as well as providing responsible gambling training for staff. These activities are essential for protecting users and maintaining a sound gaming environment.

What should be done when a family member is suffering from a gambling problem?+

If a family member is suffering from a gambling problem, it is important to seek professional help rather than blaming the individual. Since gambling can be an illness that is difficult to overcome through willpower alone, it is highly beneficial for the family to visit a Gambling Problem Prevention and Healing Center together for family counseling. Through family counseling, you can learn how to support the individual's recovery and follow a systematic healing process that builds economic and emotional safety nets to prevent relapse.