South Korea stock scam losses hit $250M
- South Korean police investigated 3,506 stock-tip scam cases during the first half of 2026.
- The cases involved 336 billion won, worth about US$247 million, up 19.8% year on year.
- Police have also pursued a Cambodia-based scheme involving fake brokerage apps and AI stock claims.
South Korean police investigated 3,506 stock-tip scam cases involving 336 billion won during January to June 2026.
The amount involved rose 19.8% from the same period in 2025, while case numbers increased 4.1%.
One investor told Reuters he transferred 60 million won after being promised a potential 600% return.
Scammers reportedly used comments under videos from financial influencers to attract users into private chatrooms.
Some groups charged fees for stock tips, while others directed users to fake brokerage apps showing false balances and returns.
In June, Seoul police arrested 10 suspects over a Cambodia-based scheme that allegedly took 9.9 billion won from 59 South Koreans.
South Korea's financial regulators have launched a nationwide campaign warning investors about impersonation, fake news and high-return investment claims.
