Republic of Korea: Communications Commission adopted guide on dark patterns in subscription services

On 22 January 2025, the Communications Commission adopted a guide on dark patterns in subscription services. The guide highlights dark patterns including misleading subscription terms, hidden payment cycles, and automatic advertisements, which can lead to unintended payments or hinder users’ ability to make informed choices. It categorises these tactics into subscription service issues, including forced subscriptions and concealed information, and service advertisements/notifications, such as excessive pop-ups and manipulative notifications. The guide emphasised the need for regulatory action, potentially under the Telecommunications Business Act, to prevent harm.