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Published: September 1, 2025
The South Korea casino and integrated resort industry is undergoing a period of historic growth in 2025. Driven by surging international tourism, record-breaking revenues, and shifting regulatory debates, the market is redefining its position in Asia’s gaming race. In July and August 2025, Jeju Dream Tower, Grand Korea Leisure (GKL), Paradise City, and Kangwon Land all posted significant developments, while the looming MGM Osaka Integrated Resort in Japan is reshaping strategic priorities.
In July 2025, Jeju Dream Tower revenue soared to KRW 43.4 billion (~US$31M), up 90.1% YoY and 21.3% MoM, with visitor counts hitting a record 56,691. This milestone made Jeju the new leader in the South Korea casino industry 2025. Year-to-date (Jan–Jul) casino revenue rose 49.3% YoY, although hotel revenue dropped 10.7%. Lotte Tour’s stock surged by 37% in one month, reflecting strong investor confidence.
Grand Korea Leisure (GKL) posted July revenue of KRW 39B, marking a 103% YoY increase. Table games generated KRW 35.3B (+113% YoY), while machine games reached KRW 3.65B (+37% YoY). In Q2 2025, GKL’s net profit rose to KRW 16.96B (~US$12.3M), a 50% jump YoY. This recovery reflects a robust return of Japanese and Chinese VIP customers to the Korean gaming market.
Paradise City casino Korea reported July casino revenue of KRW 75.7B (~US$55M), up 23% YoY. In Q2 2025, group revenue climbed 4.1% YoY to KRW 284.5B, with net profit rising 43.5% YoY. The Incheon-based integrated resort also announced plans for a new 200-suite luxury hotel in Seoul by 2028, with an investment of KRW 500–550B, positioning itself for long-term IR expansion.
Kangwon Land, Korea’s only locals-permitted casino, postponed the opening of its second resort to 2028 (from 2027). The expansion project, worth KRW 2.5 trillion (~US$1.9B), will add 50 tables, 250 machines, and full IR amenities. Inspired by MGM Osaka, Kangwon Land is evolving toward a broader IR model to attract more international visitors.
Policymakers in Seoul are debating reforms to the Korea integrated resort industry to maintain competitiveness. With MGM Osaka expected to attract over 20 million visitors annually, including many Koreans, there is mounting pressure on Korea to modernize its IR framework, streamline visa policies, and strengthen its tourism strategy.
The South Korea casino industry 2025 is thriving, with record revenues and ambitious expansion projects. However, Japan’s IR boom presents serious competition. To secure long-term leadership in Asia’s gaming and integrated resort sector, Korea must accelerate reforms, expand its IR offerings, and adapt to a fast-changing regional landscape.
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