South Korean authorities have arrested two Thai transgender women accused of operating an illegal prostitution business that allegedly generated more than S$500,000 over several years.
According to local reports, the two individuals were arrested separately during operations carried out in April and June. The authorities later revealed details of the case after investigations uncovered the scale of their alleged earnings.
Both suspects had reportedly entered South Korea in 2023 but remained in the country even after their visas had expired, leading to additional immigration-related offences alongside the prostitution allegations.
Allegedly Used Dating Platforms To Attract Clients
Investigators said the pair advertised their services through LGBTQ+ dating platforms, where they allegedly uploaded explicit content to attract paying customers.
To reduce the risk of being caught, the suspects reportedly avoided sharing the exact location of their accommodation with clients. Instead, customers were instructed to send photographs upon arriving at the building before being guided discreetly to the correct officetel unit.
Authorities estimated that each session cost between ₩100,000 and ₩210,000, equivalent to roughly S$89 to S$188, allowing the pair to accumulate substantial profits over time.
Police Say Earnings Exceeded S$500,000
The investigation found that one suspect allegedly earned around ₩200 million (approximately S$180,000), while the other is believed to have made roughly ₩400 million (about S$360,000).
Combined, the two individuals allegedly collected more than ₩600 million, or over S$540,000, from the illegal operation.
Following their arrests, both suspects were referred to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office for allegedly violating South Korea’s immigration laws, with investigations into the prostitution offences also completed.
Authorities Monitoring Similar Activities
Investigators believe the case may not be isolated and are continuing to monitor social media platforms and online communities for similar activities involving foreign nationals.
The arrests come as South Korea continues to tighten enforcement against visa overstayers and illegal employment. Immigration authorities have stepped up inspections in recent years, particularly involving individuals suspected of engaging in unauthorised work while remaining in the country unlawfully.
The issue of South Korea’s immigration controls has also attracted significant attention in Thailand, where stories of Thai nationals being denied entry often spark heated discussion online. Critics have argued that immigration screening can be overly strict, while South Korean authorities maintain that such measures are necessary to combat illegal overstays and unauthorised employment.