"Prison Life Content Sells Well"... YouTubers Sharing Crime 'Stories'

There is controversy as YouTubers who are former members of organized crime groups post content recounting their past criminal activities as if they were heroic tales. The photo is not related to the article. [Photo by Asia Economy DB]

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[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Juri] "They couldn't break down the door because they knew I was holding a knife. So I broke through it. Since the car was surrounded by six vehicles, they didn't expect me to break out from there."

A former gang member, Mr. A, started a YouTube channel and began posting content sharing his experiences in organized crime. He proudly identifies himself as an ex-gangster and uploads videos recounting his gang life like heroic tales.

On June 2, searching for 'jopok' (gangster) on YouTube yields hundreds of related videos. Among them, a significant number are from actual gangsters or former gangsters turned YouTubers.

A YouTuber, Mr. B, who introduced himself as a former underboss of the Incheon 'OO Sikgu-pa' gang, posted a video titled "How to distinguish real gangsters from fake gangsters," which surpassed one million views. Comments such as "I will serve you as my brother," "Cool," and "A real man" appeared, seemingly praising organized crime, sparking controversy.

It is analyzed that gangsters have entered YouTube broadcasting to solve financial difficulties. With running bars and extortion becoming difficult, they are seeking new avenues through YouTube. Former gangster YouTubers are reportedly earning income through advertisements based on subscribers and views.

The problem is that most of their video content glamorizes detailed methods and descriptions of past crimes as heroic stories. Some enthusiastic youths even provide financial support to these channels, idolizing gangster life. This raises concerns that it could lead to copycat crimes. Nevertheless, it is currently impossible to regulate or ban their YouTube channels.

Meanwhile, in May, Mr. C, a former gangster in his 30s, was caught by police after causing a disturbance on the street with a weapon during a dispute with another gang member while broadcasting on YouTube.

During the broadcast, Mr. C said to another gang member, "Let's meet in person," then turned off the broadcast, took a weapon, and went to the meeting place. When his junior did not show up, he caused a disturbance on the street with the weapon and was apprehended by the responding police.

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