It's hard to find someone in Connecticut who hasn't heard about casinos.

Especially when talking to long-time residents, phrases like "I went to Mohegan over the weekend" or "I had dinner at Foxwoods" come up quite naturally.

At first, I wondered how close these casinos really were, but it turns out there are two massive casinos just about an hour's drive from Hartford.

They are Mohegan Sun in Uncasville and Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard. The drive between the two is quick. Foxwoods opened in 1992, and Mohegan Sun followed in 1996, both operated by Native American tribes.

However, when you actually visit, you'll find that they are a bit different from what you might expect from a casino. They aren't just filled with slot machines; there are hotels, numerous restaurants, shopping, shows, and spas. Famous concerts are often held there, so even those who aren't going to gamble frequently visit just to check it out. For Connecticut residents, these places have become more like weekend getaways rather than destinations requiring a flight like Las Vegas.

But I find this somewhat concerning. When something is so close, it can lead to more frequent visits. Initially, you might go with friends for a meal, try a slot machine with $20, then bring $100 the next time, and before you know it, someone might go back to try to win back lost money.

Especially among our Korean community, we tend not to talk openly about money or gambling issues. While we may appear to be doing well in business and at work, there could be individuals who are secretly visiting casinos regularly.

Life as an immigrant can be lonelier and more stressful than one might think. Some people find themselves with a lot of free time after raising their children.

If casinos become a way to pass the time and relieve stress, I see that as a significant concern.

Moreover, gambling doesn't always start with losing a lot of money.

One day you might win $200, then lose $500 the next, thinking, "I won last time, so I should win again today."

Once you start dipping into your living expenses or credit card payments, it becomes hard to call it just a hobby.

That said, I don't want to label casinos as inherently bad. Many people enjoy going to see shows, eat good food, and spend a set amount of money for fun.

The key is to stick to the limits you set for yourself. If you decide to spend only $100 today, then when that money is gone, you should just go home. The moment you head to the ATM to retrieve lost money, things can change.

Connecticut has systems in place for counseling and assistance with gambling issues, and you can also find related services through 2-1-1. Casinos also run programs for responsible gambling.

I especially wish that when I hear about older generations or individuals living alone frequently visiting casinos, someone would ask them again, "Are you going for fun these days?" Even if it sounds like nagging, sometimes family interest is necessary.

Having two such glamorous casinos less than an hour from Hartford is certainly an interesting local feature. However, while it's great that they are close, it also means we need to be more cautious.

When going out for fun, I hope people will enjoy themselves but also take a moment to reflect on how much money they are bringing and how often they are visiting.

Casino lights are indeed dazzling, but we shouldn't return home with a heavy heart.