A Polish citizen has been sentenced to 13 years in prison in South Korea for smuggling ketamine and ecstasy hidden in sculptures.
Drug Trafficking Offense Severity
Judges emphasized the seriousness of the drug-related crime, stating that drug offenses have severe negative consequences for society and require strict measures.
The sentence was an increase from the initial 10-year sentence.
Professional Operation & Criminal Group Involvement
The appellate court determined the original sentence was too lenient, noting the defendant acted professionally and was part of a criminal group, factors that increase penalties under South Korean law.
Smuggling Method & Route
The drugs were concealed within sculptures and transported by air to Incheon International Airport in April 2025.
The Polish national was to deliver a portion of the drugs, valued at approximately $400,000, to local dealers in Ulsan.
Defense Arguments Rejected
The defense argued the defendant was not the initiator of the scheme and acted out of fear for his family’s safety, but the Supreme Court upheld the lower court’s ruling.
The court deemed the scale of the smuggling and the quantity of drugs warranted the original sentence.
Strict South Korean Drug Laws
South Korea has very strict anti-drug laws, with organized smuggling of psychotropic substances carrying penalties of 13 to 45 years imprisonment.
Authorities consider this case one of the largest drug smuggling attempts recently uncovered.
