Republic of Korea: Korea Fair Trade Commission issued ruling against 36 platforms over dark pattern practices

On 30 September 2025, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) issued a ruling against dark pattern practices in large online platforms, following the enforcement of the amended Electronic Commerce Act in February 2025. The measure applies to 36 firms in over-the-top (OTT) platforms, music, e-book, e-commerce, rental, and travel sectors. The KFTC required corrections or plans to address practices, including blocking cancellations, hidden renewals, misleading layouts, and partial price disclosures. Platforms are required to allow online cancellations, obtain explicit consent for renewals or price changes, and show total prices upfront.