Hana Financial Group Launches Major Campaign to Combat Youth Gambling in South Korea
Hana Financial Group has announced a significant initiative to tackle the growing problem of illegal youth gambling in South Korea. The company is investing KRW10 billion (approximately $7.3 million) over three years to both prevent gambling among teenagers and provide necessary treatment for those already struggling with addiction.
A Nationwide Effort to Address Illegal Youth Gambling
This comprehensive campaign is a collaboration with the Korea Problem Gambling Agency and is supported by key governmental bodies such as the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS), the National Police Agency, and the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education.
Comprehensive Preventive Measures
At the core of this campaign is a wide array of preventive measures aimed at educating young people about the dangers of gambling.
The initiative will employ creative mediums such as educational musicals, animations, and webtoons designed to resonate with teenagers.
Additionally, public awareness campaigns and workshops will be conducted in schools and community centers nationwide.
These efforts are intended to arm teenagers with the knowledge and tools necessary to avoid the pitfalls of gambling.
Focus on Mental Health and Counseling
The campaign places a strong emphasis on mental health, with a commitment to providing 24,000 consultations over the next three years.
Hana Financial is working to ensure that youth struggling with gambling addiction have access to professional support, including psychologists and counselors.
This aspect of the initiative is critical in helping affected teenagers receive the guidance and treatment they need to overcome addiction and regain control of their lives.
Partnership with Esports Icon to Enhance Outreach
To amplify the campaign’s message, Hana Financial has partnered with Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok, a renowned professional esports player and a prominent figure among South Korean youth.
As the campaign’s ambassador, Lee is expected to have a significant impact, particularly among teenagers who are avid fans of esports.
His involvement bridges the gap between the online gaming world and the campaign’s objectives, making the initiative more relatable and engaging for the younger demographic.
A Holistic Approach to Prevention and Treatment
Hana Financial Group Chairman Ham Young-joo has underscored the importance of a holistic approach in addressing youth gambling.
The initiative not only focuses on raising awareness but also on building a robust support network for affected individuals.
The campaign includes training around 1,000 experts in youth gambling prevention and designating 90 schools as model institutions for gambling prevention.
This comprehensive strategy has garnered widespread support from government officials, educators, and mental health professionals, who recognize it as a vital step in protecting South Korea’s youth from the dangers of gambling.
