Republic of Korea: Fair Trade Commission closes consultation on draft amended consumer protection guidelines in e-commerce establishing specific interpretation standards and recommendations for dark pattern regulation

On 18 September 2025, the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) closes the consultation on draft amended consumer protection guidelines in e-commerce, establishing specific interpretation standards and recommendations for dark pattern regulation. The draft amended guidelines were issued following the implementation of the amended E-commerce Act, which defines six types of dark patterns, namely hidden renewal, drip pricing, pre-selected options, misdirection, obstruction of cancellation/withdrawal, and repeated interference, and allows the FTC to impose corrective measures and fines for violations. The guidelines clarify how businesses must obtain explicit consent for price increases or subscription conversions, display total costs upfront, avoid pre-selected or misleading options, prevent repeated interference with consumer choices, and ensure cancellation or withdrawal processes are as accessible as purchase procedures. The amendments also include recommendations for transparent pricing, clear selection items, and prominently displayed cancellation options to promote voluntary compliance and fair online interfaces.