25-2-2025 – South Korean customs authorities have apprehended two individuals in their twenties for allegedly participating in a crypto-funded narcotics smuggling scheme.
The suspects, operating independently yet allegedly under the direction of the same shadowy figure, were recruited through a Telegram open channel that marketed the illegal enterprise as a “high-paying part-time job”. The mastermind, described by officials as a “drug lord”, orchestrated the operation through precise instructions delivered via the messaging platform.
The scope of the smuggling operation is particularly alarming, with authorities confirming the trafficking of more than 7 kilogrammes of various narcotics. One suspect allegedly attempted to import 700 grammes of concentrated liquid cannabis from the United States through Incheon International Airport, whilst additionally receiving 4.5 kilogrammes of synthetic marijuana from Vietnam.
The second suspect is accused of importing 1.2 kilogrammes of synthetic marijuana, also sourced from Vietnam, and subsequently distributing the contraband across multiple South Korean cities, including Suwon.
The Busan Main Customs Office, working in conjunction with the Gyeonggi Southern Provincial Police Agency, revealed that payment for these illegal activities was conducted through an unregistered cryptocurrency exchange, deliberately chosen to obscure the money trail.
“These criminal enterprises are specifically targeting young individuals who are well-versed in social media platforms and cryptocurrency transactions,” warned a customs official from Busan.
The arrests come amid mounting concern over the proliferation of Korean-language Telegram channels functioning as virtual marketplaces for illicit substances. These platforms have been dubbed “crypto-powered narcotics department stores”, offering nationwide delivery of various drugs including MDMA, synthetic marijuana, and methamphetamine.
The suspects have been charged with violations of the Narcotics Control Act, as authorities continue their broader investigation into the tech-savvy drug trafficking network.