Seoul: South Korean customs authorities announced on Wednesday that they have seized a record-breaking total of over 3,000 kilograms of illegal drugs at the border in 2025.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Korea Customs Service (KCS) reported that a total of 3,318 kg of narcotics were confiscated last year. This figure marks more than a threefold increase compared to the previous year. The rise in drug seizures was largely attributed to an increase in cocaine confiscations, while methamphetamine, typically the most seized drug, saw a decline due to reduced shipments from Thailand.

The KCS noted that the largest volumes of these illegal substances were intercepted from travelers or shipments originating from Latin America, Asia, and North America. Despite the reduced drug flow from Thailand, Asia continued to be the primary source region for illegal drugs.

In terms of transport methods, there was an increase in express shipments by number, although the total weight of these shipments decreased. Meanwhile, international postal shipments saw a decline in both number and weight.

To strengthen its efforts against drug trafficking, the KCS plans to enhance cooperation with countries identified as significant sources of drug trafficking. This year, the agency aims to build on existing partnerships with Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, the United States, and the Netherlands by including Cambodia, Laos, Canada, Germany, and France.

As part of this initiative, customs officers from these nations will be stationed at each other's border facilities to collaboratively screen travelers and cargo deemed high-risk. Additionally, the KCS has established a new task force led by the KCS commissioner to oversee these operations, ensuring a robust border-control network in 2026.