South Korea’s gaming revenue rose by 7.7 percent to KRW20.3 trillion– or around US$17.6 billion – in 2016.
According to figures released by The National Gambling Control Commission this week, the nation enjoyed an identical percentage jump to that seen in 2015 despite an ongoing economic downturn. The latest revenue rise includes casinos, horse racing, cycle and boar racing and Sports Toto.
State-run casino operator Kangwon Land reported revenue of KRW 1.7 trillion while foreigner-only casinos made KRW1.2 trillion.
Lottery ticket sales grew by 9.3 percent to KRW 3.9 trillion with the Korea Racing Authority enjoyed a modest 0.2 percent growth to KRW 7.7 trillion.
The impressive results come as South Korea prepares for the opening of the first of three integrated resorts in Incheon next month.
