Republic of Korea: Opened consultation on FTC Amended Enforcement Decree of Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Commerce

On 18 July 2024, the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) opened the public consultation on the amendment to the Enforcement Decree of the Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Commerce, set to be implemented on 14 February 2025. The consultation ends on 27 August 2024. The amendment aims to address online deceptive marketing practices, referred to as “dark patterns”, by specifying the requirements for prior consent and notification periods for increases in regular payment amounts or changes to paid services. Specifically, e-commerce businesses must obtain consumer consent 30 days before increasing regular payments and 14 days before converting services to paid models. Additionally, the amendment introduces a minimum period during which consumers cannot be repeatedly asked to alter their decisions, set at 7 days, to reduce repetitive interference. Furthermore, it establishes criteria for business suspension and fines for violations related to dark patterns, enhancing consumer protection measures. The amendment also lays down the legal foundation for the public disclosure of e-commerce platforms with high volumes of complaints, detailing the procedures and methods for such disclosures.