South Korea brought home 64 Cambodia scam suspects on Saturday. This marked the country’s largest operation to return nationals involved in overseas online crimes. The move also signaled Seoul’s determination to dismantle criminal networks preying on its citizens.
A chartered Korean Air flight landed at Incheon International Airport at 8:35 a.m. after leaving Techo International Airport near Phnom Penh. Police immediately took custody of the Cambodia scam suspects on board. They exercised jurisdiction since national carriers are considered South Korean territory.
Authorities deployed 190 police officers to escort the group. In addition, 23 police vehicles waited at Incheon to transport them to regional stations for questioning. The suspects face investigations for roles in organized online scams based in Cambodia.
Officials said many worked for crime rings that lured South Koreans with fake job offers. Victims were then forced to work in scam operations under confinement and threats.
This mass return followed national outrage over the recent killing of a South Korean college student in Cambodia. Criminals had tricked him with a job offer and later tortured him to death. The case exposed the dangers of cross-border trafficking and online fraud.
Cambodian authorities arrested 59 South Koreans during raids on scam compounds. Five others escaped and sought help from local police. South Korean and Cambodian officials cooperated to repatriate them safely and start investigations.
A government task force had already arrived in Phnom Penh earlier this week. It worked with Cambodian agencies to prepare legal documents and gather digital evidence. The Ministry of Justice said several suspects already appear on Interpol Red Notices.
Investigators believe the Cambodia scam suspects handled tasks such as recruiting victims, transferring money, and managing fraudulent websites. Police plan to trace cryptocurrency wallets and online communication channels to identify the masterminds.
Experts say this operation reflects Seoul’s growing focus on transnational cybercrime. Moreover, they expect stronger partnerships with ASEAN nations to prevent future scams.
Officials stressed that South Korea will continue joint crackdowns with Cambodia and neighboring countries. They aim to protect citizens, share intelligence, and destroy remaining criminal networks in Southeast Asia.
Ultimately, the repatriation of the Cambodia scam suspects highlights South Korea’s commitment to global cooperation and public safety.
