Republic of Korea: Implemented Article 21-2 (2) of the Act amending Consumer Protection in Electronic Commerce (E-Commerce Act)

On 13 February 2024, the amendments to the Consumer Protection in Electronic Commerce Act (E-Commerce Act/Act No. 20302) Article 21-2 (2) and 21-3 (3) entered into force. The amendments aim to improve transparency, consumer safety, and fair trading practices in e-commerce. Article 21-2 prohibits business operators from engaging in certain acts when operating online interfaces. This includes providing optional items to consumers during transactions, such as purchasing goods or membership registration and inducing them to subscribe for other transactions before they directly select whether or not to subscribe. The amendments also empower the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) to seek public information and issue guidelines for business operators. In addition, the amendment outlines corrective measures and specifies that fines of up to KRW 5 million can be imposed for failure to comply with consumer consent and notification requirements and for committing prohibited acts.