South Korea's war on crypto-powered drug trafficking is hitting a roadblock. Encrypted messaging app Telegram has become a virtual "department store" for young buyers, raising concerns about the platform's role in this growing crisis.

President Yoon Suk-yeol's call for an "all-out war" last year came after a surge in drug busts involving teenagers and young adults. However, a year later, the battleground has shifted to Telegram channels openly advertising nationwide deliveries of meth, ecstasy, and other narcotics.

Operating with impunity, these channels feature photos of drugs and Telegram handles, easily discoverable through Korean slang searches. One particularly brazen post even "taunted" detectives, offering "wholesale prices" on narcotics and help with promotions.

Telegram's transformation into a drug marketplace extends beyond sales. The app has become a de facto job board, with gangs advertising crypto-paid positions like "dead-drop delivery person." These "dead-drops" involve leaving drugs hidden in public places, further anonymizing the transaction.

Despite millions spent on blockchain monitoring tools and Telegram surveillance, South Korean police admit the fight is uphill. While a recent raid in Busan netted 49 arrests, countless similar channels remain operational.

The authorities are scrambling for solutions. The Supreme Prosecutor's Office has deployed AI software to scour social media for drug-related content. Additionally, law enforcement is sending agents to Southeast Asia to collaborate with regional narcotics bureaus.

However, critics argue these measures are insufficient. The allure of cheap narcotics from Southeast Asia and the limitations of digital forensics technology continue to fuel the black market. A lawyer interviewed by the outlet emphasized the need for better communication with regulators, suggesting Telegram itself might hold the key to shutting down this virtual drug haven.

With the crypto exchange industry also facing regulatory hurdles, South Korea finds itself battling a multi-pronged war. The question remains: can they shut down the online bazaar before the drug crisis spirals further out of control?