Telegram Becoming ‘Crypto-powered Narcotics Department Store’ for South Koreans

Telegram has reportedly become a “crypto-powered narcotics department store” for South Koreans, with gangs using Korean-language channels on the platform to openly advertise drug deliveries. These channels have turned into playgrounds for young South Koreans looking for drugs, and operators of these channels have even taunted police officers monitoring their activities. The operators post pictures of drugs and contact information with impunity, and the platform has effectively become an online marketplace for drug buyers. Telegram has also become a job agency for young people, with dealers advertising crypto-paying positions such as “dead-drop delivery person.” Despite efforts by the police to track Telegram users, it remains difficult, although monitoring tools have helped with recent raids and arrests. The Supreme Prosecutor’s Office has also developed an AI-powered monitoring software that combs through images and text on various social media platforms, looking for narcotics-related content. South Korean law enforcement agencies have also sent officers abroad to work with drug agencies in Southeast Asia. However, critics argue that the increase in resources is still insufficient, as crypto-powered narcotics-related crimes continue to increase every year.