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Japan's MGM Osaka threatens South Korea's casino dominance by 2030

A $8.2 billion gambling giant rises in Osaka—will South Korea's casinos lose billions in tourism? Experts demand urgent reforms to fight back.

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2 min read
The image shows a bustling street market in Seoul, South Korea, with tents set up on the side of...
The image shows a bustling street market in Seoul, South Korea, with tents set up on the side of the road. There are many people milling around, and tables filled with various items such as cardboard boxes and other items. In the background, there are buildings with windows, light poles, and boards with text. The sky is visible in the background.

Japan's MGM Osaka threatens South Korea's casino dominance by 2030

South Korea's casino industry faces growing competition as Japan prepares to open its first major integrated resort. With only one domestic casino resort, Kangwon Land, many South Koreans may soon turn to Japan's MGM Osaka for gambling and entertainment. The $8.2 billion project, set to launch in 2030, is expected to reshape tourism and spending in the region.

Experts recently gathered to discuss how South Korea can strengthen its own integrated resort (IR) sector. Concerns were raised about the lack of coordination in licensing and development, prompting calls for a clearer strategy to attract global investors. Japan's MGM Osaka is poised to become a major draw for South Korean tourists. The resort, located on Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay, will feature hotels, retail spaces, restaurants, entertainment venues, and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) facilities. Once operational in 2030, it is projected to attract 20 million visitors annually, generate $3.4 billion in gaming revenue, and create 20,000 jobs. Research estimates that up to 7.6 million South Koreans could visit each year, spending around $1.9 billion.

South Korea currently operates 17 integrated resorts, including Paradise City, Inspire Resort, and several Jeju-based casinos like Jeju Shinhwa World and Landing Resort. Despite this, Kangwon Land remains the only casino resort open to local residents. The limited domestic options may push many to travel abroad for gambling.

At a recent event hosted by The Korea Times Global Business Club and the Tourism Sciences Society of Korea, experts examined ways to improve the country's IR industry. Dong-eui University Professor Yoon Tae-hwan criticised the current licensing process for its lack of unified vision and coordination between government bodies, local authorities, and private investors. He proposed establishing an independent 'control tower' with transparent, predictable standards to boost investor confidence and enhance Korea's global credibility.

Professor Kang Sung-sook of Tezukayama University highlighted Japan's approach as a model for success. She noted that MGM Osaka's development reflects strong alignment between government policies, investor interests, and local community needs—key factors in ensuring long-term performance. The opening of MGM Osaka could significantly impact South Korea's tourism and gambling sectors. With millions of potential visitors and billions in projected spending, Japan's new resort presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Meanwhile, South Korea's experts are pushing for reforms to streamline licensing, improve coordination, and attract more international investment in its own IR industry.

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