South Korea’s casino and tourism industries are urging the government to overhaul outdated regulations, warning that the launch of Japan’s first integrated resort could siphon off millions of South Korean visitors and billions in revenue.
The issue dominated discussion at a two-day forum in Osaka last week, according to casino industry outlet Inside Asian Gaming (IAG). The event was attended by around 50 officials and experts from the Korea Casino Integrated Resort Association and the Korea Tourism Society.
Choi Chul-kyu, acting CEO of Kangwon Land – the only South Korean casino open to locals – described MGM Osaka as a “serious competitive challenge” and threat to South Korea’s broader tourism industry, given its proximity and scale. Analysts estimate the US$9 billion integrated resort, due to open around 2030, could attract as many as 7.6 million South Koreans annually and divert US$1.9 billion in spending.
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Calls for reform were echoed by Suh Won-seok, president of the Korea Tourism Society, who stressed the need for “new policies that go beyond the current framework,” although he stopped short of offering specifics, IAG says.
Lee Jae-seok, a professor at Gangneung-Wonju National University, argued that integrated resorts must be central to Seoul’s plan to draw 30 million overseas visitors. He called on authorities to consider easing restrictions while maintaining safeguards against gambling addiction.
A groundbreaking ceremony for MGM Osaka took place in April this year. The integrated resort is being developed by MGM Resorts International and Japan’s Orix Corp. Construction is expected to be completed in the summer of 2030.
