South Korea today forced developers to use specific apps (Application ), and unreasonably delayed app reviews, etc., Apple and Alphabet Inc.Google The company was fined a total of 63.71 billion won (US$47.5 million).
Yonhap news agency reported that the Korea Broadcasting Media and Communications Commission today made a decision on Google and Apple (Apple ) were fined 42.9 billion won and 20.81 billion won, respectively. This is the first time that South Korea has issued penalties in accordance with the regulations since it formulated relevant regulations prohibiting forced in-app payments in 2021.
The investigation revealed that although both companies allow third-party payments, they charge a 26% handling fee and impose restrictions on the usage process and functions. In fact, they still guide developers to use their payment system.
Apple also used different fee calculation standards for local and foreign developers in South Korea, which was found to involve unfair differential treatment.
The Committee also requires both companies to allow developers to provide other payment methods to users through external payment links, appropriately adjust third-party payment fees, improve the review process, and clearly communicate the reasons for review delays and follow-up arrangements.
According to Yonhap news agency, both companies must submit an implementation plan within a month of receiving the reform order and complete the reforms within three months.
