Cambodians outraged by South Korean president’s ‘ruin you’ scam threat

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by SCMP’s Asia deskFebruary 3, 2026 at 08:53 AM

AI Summary

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South Korean President Lee Jae Myung sparked controversy in Cambodia after posting a social media warning to transnational scam networks operating there. The post, which threatened to "ruin" those who target South Koreans, was perceived by many Cambodians as damaging to their country's reputation. Lee's message followed his previous pledge to combat syndicates responsible for abducting and exploiting Koreans in scam compounds. The South Korean government has taken action, including launching a "Korean Desk" in Cambodia to facilitate arrests and rescues. Recently, Cambodia deported a large group of South Koreans and Myanmar nationals accused of scamming Korean victims. The controversial social media post has since been deleted amid diplomatic efforts to clarify the situation.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Myanmar 30% Reuters 30% Khmer Times 40% OhMyNews 40% Chinese 40% The Korea Herald ×360% Cambodia ×680% South Korea ×480% Lee Jae Myung ×390%

Keywords

scam networks 90% south korea 80% cambodia 80% lee jae myung 70% organized crime 70% cybercrime 60% police raids 50% deportation 50% diplomatic relations 50%