Republic of Korea: Implemented Law amending Game Industry Promotion Act including labelling and disclosure requirements (Bill no. 2120110/ Law no. 19242)

On 22 March 2024, the law amending the Game Industry Promotion Act, labelling and disclosure requirements (Bill no. 2120110/ Law no. 19242), was implemented. The law establishes a new definition for probability items, encompassing in-game items whose specific types, effects, and performance are determined by chance factors. The developers, providers and distributors of games are mandated to disclose that the game includes probability items. This includes disclosing the types of probability items available in the game, as well as providing detailed information on the probability of obtaining each type. They must be displayed in a clear and understandable manner, making it easily accessible to users. This disclosure obligation extends to game products, internet homepages, and promotional materials. Furthermore, the law changes the definition of youth from 18 to 19 years old. The providers of games are required to specify the target audience of the game and clearly label it if it is not allowed for youth. Finally, the law gives the Game Management Committee the power to assess the accuracy of the historical events depicted in the games and issue corrective measures. The Law stipulates that the Committee will evaluate historical facts to ensure that foreign entities or governments don't distort Korean history and culture. The non-compliance with the law may result in penalties such as corrective orders issued by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, including fines of up to KRW 20 million.