Vietnamese authorities have officially charged 141 individuals — including foreign nationals, business leaders, and civil servants — in connection with a massive illegal gambling operation at the King Club, located in the Pullman Hotel in central Hanoi.
The Ministry of Public Security’s Security Investigation Agency has concluded its investigation and transferred the case to the Supreme People’s Procuracy. Charges of “organizing gambling” and “gambling” stem from illicit operations involving over $111.4 million, making this one of the most significant gambling busts in recent years.
Among those facing prosecution are three South Korean nationals and two Vietnamese executives, who have been charged with organizing illegal gambling activities. The remaining 136 individuals — all Vietnamese — are accused of participating in the gambling network.
An international arrest warrant has been issued for Kim In Sung, a South Korean national and director of HSDVNCO., LTD. Authorities say he fled Vietnam before the investigation was launched and allegedly pocketed $9.4 million in illegal profits.
The King Club, operated by Viet Hai Dang Investment and Entertainment Services Co., Ltd., offered electronic gaming activities in violation of Vietnamese law, which restricts casino-style gaming to foreign passport holders only. However, investigators say club managers and business leaders knowingly allowed 136 Vietnamese citizens to participate through unauthorized membership schemes.
Gaming options reportedly included slots, roulette, and baccarat. Vietnamese clients were recruited via personal networks or direct outreach and given access to the gaming floor with illicit membership cards.
Commenting on the case, Sophie Dao, Lawyer and Senior Partner at GBS, said: “This is a wake-up call for foreign investors and expatriates doing business in Vietnam. Vietnamese law clearly distinguishes between legal and illegal forms of entertainment, especially when it comes to gambling. Violating those boundaries — whether directly or through complicity — carries severe legal consequences.” She continued: “Foreign nationals working in Vietnam must understand that even passive involvement in prohibited activities, especially those linked to organized gambling, can lead to criminal prosecution and international arrest warrants. This case reinforces the importance of strict legal compliance and responsible business practices.”
Authorities say that digital forensics, testimony from participants, and data extracted from the club’s software system provided sufficient evidence to charge all 141 individuals. The club’s operations were reportedly conducted with full knowledge of the legal restrictions, yet continued due to the promise of high profits.
The scandal has triggered renewed scrutiny of Vietnam’s casino industry and sparked calls for tighter regulatory oversight of gaming activities targeting foreign visitors.
As the case progresses toward prosecution, legal experts warn that Vietnam is increasingly intolerant of illicit operations — regardless of nationality.
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Source: Vietnam Insider