South Korean police are investigating a sophisticated criminal network that offers paid revenge services, with all transactions settled in cryptocurrency. The network, described as a "private revenge organization," operates through brokers on platforms like Telegram and provides an à la carte menu of harassment and vandalism services for set crypto-denominated prices.
According to reports from major South Korean newspapers Dong-A Ilbo, Joongang Ilbo, and Kiho Ilbo, the services include smearing human waste on a victim's door for approximately $1,300 worth of crypto, scattering leaflets falsely accusing individuals of being sex offenders or prostitutes for about $325, as well as supergluing doors, graffitiing property, and delivering direct threats.
Police in Gyeonggi Province initially disclosed three suspected cases in early March 2026, but the investigation has since expanded to six confirmed cases. The attacks are geographically clustered within a 120-kilometer radius of the capital, occurring in cities like Uiwang, Hwaseong, Gunpo, Pyeongtaek, and Paju, though none have yet been reported in Seoul itself.
Authorities have made multiple arrests of individuals suspected of carrying out the physical attacks, who are said to be paid around $300 per month plus bonuses. However, the hunt for the masterminds and brokers who facilitate the crimes and communicate with clients via Telegram remains ongoing. Police warn that the criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, meticulously planning attacks to avoid CCTV cameras by wearing masks and hoods.
This case adds to the long-standing narrative of cryptocurrency being used to facilitate illicit activities due to its pseudonymous nature. It draws parallels to historical cases like the Silk Road marketplace and modern tactics used by cybercriminal groups such as the Lazarus Group, highlighting the ongoing challenge for the crypto industry as it seeks broader legitimacy.
