Korean Fugitive, Wanted for Billion-Won Fraud, Nabbed in Batangas

Korean Fugitive, Wanted for Billion-Won Fraud, Nabbed in Batangas

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | March 5, 2026

BATANGAS, Philippines – In a significant win against international crime, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced today the capture of a high-profile South Korean fugitive, Kim Yong Cheol, 62, who allegedly defrauded investors of over KRW 1 billion (approximately PHP 40 million) through an elaborate investment scheme. Kim, who had been evading authorities since 2009, was apprehended by the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) in Laurel, Batangas, on March 4, 2026.

The dramatic arrest, executed along the Tagaytay–Nasugbu Highway, followed intelligence reports indicating Kim’s audacious attempt to mask his identity. Authorities revealed that Kim was not only overstaying his Philippine visa but had also allegedly adopted a fictitious Filipino identity, supported by fraudulent Philippine civil registry documents and a passport – a desperate bid to continue his illicit activities.

Kim Yong Cheol became the subject of an Interpol Red Notice in February of this this year, signaling his status as an internationally wanted individual. According to Korean authorities, Kim’s sophisticated scam in 2009 involved falsely representing his company as a Philippines-based entity operating a gaming firm, a travel agency, and an online shopping platform. He allegedly lured unsuspecting investors with promises of exorbitant returns, ranging from 250% to a staggering 450% on their investments, ultimately absconding with over KRW 1 billion.

BI records confirm Kim’s arrival in the Philippines in 2009 as a temporary visitor, with no subsequent legal extension or change in his immigration status, rendering him an overstaying alien. Further scrutiny revealed active Watchlist and Blacklist Orders against him, solidifying his classification as an undesirable fugitive from justice.

Kim Yong Cheol is currently held under BI custody, awaiting deportation proceedings that will bring him to justice for his alleged crimes. This successful operation underscores the BI’s relentless commitment to national security and its proactive role in combating transnational fraud and apprehending foreign fugitives.