The hidden dark money is behind the obligation of national taxes. Dark money refers to profits earned through bribery, embezzlement, theft, corruption, drugs, and prostitution. Frequent transactions involving dark money activate the underground economy. The government cannot obtain transaction information or collect taxes on such transactions. Therefore, the activation of the underground economy significantly negatively impacts the country.

The notorious loan shark is known as "dark money." A criminal organization that recently borrowed 250,000 won at an annual interest rate of 5,000% and demanded 150 million won, resorting to murder and threats, was apprehended by the police.

Prostitution is notorious for associating with underground economies and dark money in many countries. While some nations have legalized it, like South Korea, it remains illegal in most places. The red-light district is a well-known example in South Korea, operating openly on the streets where law enforcement can intervene, but obstacles hinder complete eradication. Illegal entertainment establishments form collusion networks, making police crackdowns ineffective as information quickly spreads and they evade enforcement using various tactics. Those involved in illegal entertainment have limited alternative means of income, often leading them back to illegal activities. These factors impede successful crackdowns, so relying on detailed police data on locations and scales is more efficient.

Dark money is a leaky piggy bank for the nation, and the underground economy is the pinnacle of a vicious cycle. However, for various reasons, dark money remains an unsolved problem, even for a powerhouse country. Rather than seeking alternative solutions due to practical issues, it is hoped that the wave of dark money will disappear as soon as possible through addressing fundamental problems and policies.

오진우 강남포스트 학생기자  webmaster@ignnews.kr

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