Republic of Korea: Korea Communications Commission released report following inquiry into in-app payments

On 11 April 2025, the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) and the Korea Internet and Security Agency (KISA) released a report following an inquiry into in-app payments. The survey was conducted between August 2024 and March 2025 for app market operators, and from September to December 2024 for developers and users. According to the findings, South Korean users made an average of 1.43 monthly purchases of paid content, spending KRW 13,317 on subscriptions and KRW 9,756 on one-time payments. The survey, conducted pursuant to the Telecommunications Business Act, highlighted several concerns raised by market participants. Among developers, 70.4% identified commission rates of 14–26% as a primary issue related to in-app payments. Delays in app reviews were also reported, with 36.8% of developers citing Apple and 26.2% citing Google. Although the domestic app market contracted by 6.4% in 2023, reaching KRW 8.195 trillion, Apple’s sales increased by 10.1%, while Google Play’s sales declined by 10.1%. Among users, 74.5% preferred in-app payments due to convenience, though 28.3% reported difficulties with refund processes, with half of those affected waiting up to a week. The KCC announced plans to introduce measures aimed at improving fairness in the app market ecosystem.