Four South Koreans Arrested in Cebu, Three Fugitives Facing Fraud Charges

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested four South Korean nationals in Cebu City, three of whom are confirmed fugitives in their home country. The arrests, carried out in Barangay Pardo on October 16, 2025, were conducted by the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (BI-FSU) under a mission order issued by BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado.

Arrested Individuals and Charges

The arrested individuals have been identified as Kim Joohyun, Jung Won Ki, Ko Chulwoong, and Ha Yousung. According to the BI, Kim and Jung are wanted in South Korea for fraud. Arrest warrants were issued against them by the Incheon District Court for violations of the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Economic Crimes and the Criminal Act of the Republic of Korea. Both men are considered undocumented aliens in the Philippines, as their passports have expired.

Ko Chulwoong was found to be an overstaying alien, while Ha Yousung has an existing deportation case due to undesirability. South Korean authorities have also reported Ha as a fugitive.

Law Enforcement Statement

Commissioner Viado emphasized the BI’s commitment to strict enforcement of immigration laws and protection of the country’s borders. “We are determined to strengthen our enforcement operations and hold accountable those who abuse our country’s openness. Our mandate is clear — to safeguard the nation from individuals who exploit our borders for unlawful gain,” Viado stated.

The BI noted that the arrests were coordinated with South Korean authorities as part of an ongoing crackdown on foreign fugitives residing in the Philippines. The bureau affirmed that the four individuals are currently held at the BI Warden Facility in Taguig City pending deportation proceedings.

Legal Framework and International Cooperation

The arrests were carried out in accordance with the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 (Commonwealth Act No. 613). The individuals will also be included in the BI’s blacklist to prevent their re-entry into the country.

The Bureau stressed that this operation reflects its broader commitment to international law enforcement cooperation, including with organizations such as Interpol, to track, apprehend, and deport fugitives wanted for serious crimes abroad. The BI reaffirmed that the Philippines will not serve as a safe haven for fugitives or individuals attempting to evade justice in their home countries.

Implications and Enforcement

This operation highlights the BI’s increased vigilance against undocumented foreigners and those violating Philippine immigration laws. The agency has vowed to continue its efforts in monitoring foreign nationals, especially those flagged as fugitives, to ensure public safety and compliance with the law.

The BI also stated that travel movements of flagged individuals are closely monitored at all airports and seaports throughout the country, ensuring that fugitives cannot escape Philippine jurisdiction.