South Korean media outlets have reported that crypto-powered narcotics gangs have transformed Korean-language Telegram channels into “drugs department stores” and “playgrounds” for young South Koreans. This comes almost a year after South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol declared an “all-out war” on crypto-powered drug trafficking. Despite efforts by the police to monitor these channels, operators openly advertise nationwide drug deliveries for methamphetamine, ecstasy, and other drugs. Telegram has effectively become an online department store for young drug buyers. The channels also serve as job agencies, advertising crypto-paying positions such as “dead-drop delivery person.” Police are finding it challenging to track Telegram users but have invested in blockchain monitoring tools and surveillance. Although there have been successful raids and arrests, many similar channels remain operational. To combat this, the Supreme Prosecutor’s Office has developed an AI-powered drug monitoring software solution. South Korean law enforcement agencies are also collaborating with counterparts in Southeast Asia to tackle narcotics trafficking. However, critics argue that the current measures are insufficient as crypto-powered narcotics-related crimes continue to increase every year.
