Cosmetics brand chief caught over overseas gambling

SEOUL, Oct. 6 (Yonhap) -- The chief of a South Korean cosmetics brand, Nature Republic, was arrested on Tuesday on charges of being involved in multi-million-dollar illegal gambling in Asian countries, the prosecution here said.

The Seoul Central District Court issued the warrant sought by prosecutors to formerly detain Jeong Un-ho for allegedly gambling between 2012 and 2015 in illegal poolrooms in several Asian countries including the Philippines and Macao.

Some 10 billion won (US$8.57 million) was involved, with Jeong having a connection with local gangsters over the course of taking part in the illegal activities, according to the prosecution.

"There are ample evidence and reasons for putting him under detention," Judge Lee Seung-kyu said, noting that he has admitted to the alleged wrongdoings.

Some eight members of a local gang were also caught for operating gambling houses and luring people, with investigation under way into a handful of businessmen suspected of habitual gambling, the prosecution said.

The 50-year-old chief has led the cosmetics company, well known not only among locals but international customers, since 2010. He also founded the Faceshop in 2003.

graceoh@yna.co.kr
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