A massive lottery prize in China has sparked controversy. A winner purchased 50,000 tickets with the same number and claimed a jackpot of around 40 billion KRW (approximately $34 million). According to Chinese media outlets, the winner selected seven numbers on the ‘Kwai Le 8’ lottery ticket and won. If seven numbers match, the winner receives 10,000 yuan (about 1.83 million KRW or $1,560).
The lottery winner reportedly spent 100,000 yuan (approximately 18.3 million KRW or $15,600) to buy 50,000 tickets with the same number, exceeding the limit of 10,000 tickets that one person can buy according to Chinese regulations. Furthermore, the fact that the winner purchased these tickets from various outlets just two hours before the lottery draw has raised suspicions.
In response to the controversy, China’s state-run media outlet CCTV has called for a thorough third-party investigation. Experts have pointed out that such a win is extremely unlikely and that a thorough investigation is needed to address public skepticism. The winner, who is financially comfortable and has been buying lottery tickets for over five years, claimed that the controversy is merely the result of chance.
If it is proven that the winner has no issues, they will not have to pay taxes on the jackpot exceeding 40 billion KRW (approximately $34 million), as China does not tax winnings below 10,000 yuan.
By. Dong Ho Ryu
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