South Korean fugitive arrested in Phuket after 2,992-day overstay

A South Korean man identified as Mr Lee was arrested at a luxury condominium in Mueang Phuket District on Wednesday, 12 August 2026, after allegedly overstaying his visa by 2,992 days, according to Thai authorities.

The arrest followed an investigation by Immigration Division 6, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board and Phuket Immigration, conducted in coordination with South Korean authorities. Officers located and monitored the condominium before confirming Lee’s identity and immigration history through Thailand’s biometric system.

South Korean authorities allege that Lee and associates defrauded victims of more than 800 million won, equivalent to about B20 million. He is also accused of leading a network that exported drugs and marijuana from Thailand to South Korea, where the substances were allegedly sold through online social media channels.

Police said Lee was wanted under Interpol Red Notice No. A-8537/8-2018, published on 13 August 2018, over allegations of fraud and the illegal international import and export of drugs and marijuana. Further checks reportedly linked him to more than 23 cases involving drugs and other offences, including prostitution, assault and fraud.

Lee entered Thailand through Phuket Immigration on 6 March 2018 on a tourist visa and was permitted to stay until 3 June that year. Officers who searched his room seized three mobile phones and debit cards believed to be connected to the alleged offences. The items will be examined as the investigation continues with South Korean authorities.

Lee was informed of his rights before being handed over to police for further legal proceedings. Pol Maj Gen Phanthana Nuchanart, deputy commander of the Immigration Bureau, said the arrest reflected the bureau’s cooperation with domestic and international security agencies to locate people wanted under international arrest warrants.