South Korea Thanks Cambodia for Cyber Crime Crackdown; PM Reaffirms Commitment to Justice

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct.17, 2025) — South Korea’s Second Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Kim Jina on Thursday expressed appreciation for Cambodia’s efforts to combat cyber fraud and transnational crime during an official visit to Phnom Penh, as Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed the country’s commitment to justice and international cooperation.

Kim met with Deputy Prime Minister Chhay Sinarith, chairman of Cambodia’s Commission for Countering Cyber Scams (CCCS), to discuss ongoing cooperation and future joint efforts. Sinarith emphasized the strong and growing relationship between Cambodia and South Korea, particularly in political, economic and security areas.

He reiterated the Cambodian government’s determination to dismantle cyber scam operations, which have grown increasingly sophisticated and global in scope. Over the past four months, Cambodian authorities have prosecuted 75 ringleaders and arrested more than 3,400 individuals linked to cyber scam activities.

“Trust and cooperation with international partners are crucial to stopping these crimes,” Chhay said, stressing the importance of intelligence sharing and coordination to prevent criminal networks from relocating and continuing operations elsewhere.

Kim praised Cambodia’s cooperation, especially in assisting with investigations and the repatriation of Korean nationals involved in cyber scams. She noted that while progress may not always be visible in the media, bilateral efforts have remained strong.

“I sincerely thank the Cambodian authorities for their continued coordination and responsible handling of these matters,” she said.

Kim also highlighted the strengthening of Cambodia–Korea relations since diplomatic ties were re-established 28 years ago, and the elevation of those ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2024.

The two officials discussed further areas of cooperation, including suspect identification, data sharing and joint action to dismantle transnational crime networks. Kim also visited a cyber scam investigation site in Trayoeng Kpob village, Takeo province, where she was briefed on Cambodia’s ongoing enforcement operations.

According to the CCCS, seized evidence — including thousands of phones, computers, passports and other electronic devices — is being used to trace ringleaders and build cases against cross-border criminal networks. Cambodia has previously repatriated 180 Korean nationals involved in cyber scams, with more than 60 currently awaiting return to South Korea.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, who met with Kim earlier in the day, reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to justice and international law, saying the country’s actions stem from its own principles, not external pressure.

“We do not need prompting from any neighboring country to do what is right,” Samdech Thipadei said. “Cambodia will continue to pursue justice and uphold the rule of law, in cooperation with our partners.”

He emphasized that Cambodia’s efforts to combat cyber crime are rooted in national interest and international responsibility, and pledged to strengthen ties with South Korea in the fight against online fraud.

Sinarith echoed the prime minister’s remarks, saying Cambodia remains committed to eliminating cyber crime from its territory and will continue working closely with partners to pursue justice and protect victims.