JEJU, South Korea – A 70-year-old man has been apprehended and detained on charges of violating South Korea's Medical Service Act, after operating an extensive unlicensed acupuncture practice for approximately four years. The suspect, identified only as "A," allegedly defrauded around 120 patients across the country, preying on their desperation for cures for incurable diseases and amassing an illicit profit of roughly 20 million Korean Won (approximately $14,500 USD).
The Jeju Self-Governing Police, which spearheaded the investigation, announced on June 17, 2025, that A has been transferred to the prosecution. This arrest sheds light on the continued prevalence of unlicensed medical practitioners in South Korea who exploit vulnerable individuals seeking alternative or last-resort treatments for severe illnesses.
Exploiting Desperation with False Promises
According to the police investigation, A traveled across South Korea, including major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu, as well as Jeju, targeting patients suffering from chronic and incurable conditions such as dementia and various forms of cancer. He reportedly used manipulative tactics, making bold claims like, "I can cure anyone whom doctors couldn't," and "There is no such thing as an incurable disease," to lure in desperate patients.
A's fraudulent practices involved dangerous and highly irregular methods. He reportedly used "long needles" measuring up to 48cm (approximately 19 inches), far exceeding the standard length typically used in legitimate acupuncture clinics. In some alarming instances, he would leave these needles embedded in patients before sending them home, a practice that carries significant health risks. Numerous victims reported suffering severe side effects, including intense abdominal pain, infections, and inflammation, directly attributable to his illicit procedures.
Financial Exploitation and Legal Ramifications
Beyond the physical harm inflicted, A significantly overcharged his unsuspecting patients, reportedly demanding five times the fees typically charged by licensed traditional Korean medicine practitioners. Over four years, these exorbitant charges led to an estimated 20 million Korean Won in ill-gotten gains.
Under South Korean law, the Medical Service Act strictly regulates who can perform medical procedures. Individuals practicing medicine without a proper license face severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to five years or fines of up to 50 million Korean Won (approximately $36,000 USD). This case underscores the government's commitment to cracking down on such illicit activities that not only endanger public health but also exploit the trust of those in dire need.
Kang Soo-cheon, head of the Seogwipo Regional Police Unit of the Jeju Self-Governing Police, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "Unlicensed medical practices that cunningly exploit the desperate hearts of patients clinging to straws are serious illegal acts that must be rooted out." This incident serves as a stark reminder for the public to exercise extreme caution and verify the credentials of any medical practitioner before undergoing treatment.
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