Genting HK sheds Jeju casino stake to focus on cruise casino business

Genting Hong Kong is walking away from its casino joint venture on South Korea’s Jeju Island.

It was only last November that Genting HK announced it had entered into a 50/50 partnership with Hong Kong property developer Landing International Development Ltd. The Grand Express Korea Co Ltd joint venture involved a renovated casino inside the Hyatt Regency Jeju Hotel, which had its grand opening in January.

On Wednesday, Genting announced it was selling its 50% stake in the JV to Landing Intl for KRW 130b (US $111m), the same price Genting had originally laid out when it embarked on its brief Jeju fling. The parties expect the deal to conclude by Dec. 31, 2015.

Genting justified its JV exit based on its recent $550m acquisition of Crystal Cruises, the latest addition to the company’s burgeoning casino cruise operations. Genting says it needs to “focus on and put more resources to expand its cruise and cruise related businesses.” The extra cash will also allow Genting the flexibility to pursue other investments and opportunities as they arise.