Republic of Korea: Fair Trade Commission opened consultation on amendments to standards for imposing surcharges on businesses violating Electronic Commerce Consumer Protection Act

On 11 March 2026, the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) opened a public consultation on proposed amendments to the Standards for Imposing Surcharges on Businesses Violating the Electronic Commerce Consumer Protection Act until 31 March 2026. The amendments form part of the FTC Fine System Improvement announced on 30 December 2025. The reference period for assessing repeat violations would be extended from 3 years to 5 years. Aggravation thresholds and rates would be restructured across 4 tiers: first, 1 repeat violation with a weighted score of 2 points or more would attract aggravation of between 40% and 50%. Second, 2 repeat violations with a score of 3 points or more would attract between 50% and 70%. Third, 3 repeat violations with a score of 5 points or more would attract between 70% and 90%. Fourth, 4 or more repeat violations with a score of 7 points or more would attract between 90% and 100%. The maximum reduction rate for voluntary correction would be reduced from 30% to 10%, applicable where consumer harm has been substantially compensated or the effects of the violation substantially removed. Where voluntary correction occurs after an investigation is initiated or after a review report is transmitted, the reduction rate may be further reduced. The Notice on Standards for Imposing Surcharges on Businesses Violating the Electronic Commerce Consumer Protection Act would take effect on 21 July 2026.