South Korea has imposed hefty fines on Google and Apple for allegedly abusing their dominance in the app market. The Korea Media and Communications Commission announced penalties totaling 63.7 billion won ($47.6 million) on Wednesday, citing unfair practices that forced local developers to use the companies' own payment systems.
The regulator found that both Google and Apple delayed app reviews without clear explanations and charged developers higher commissions than those in other regions. Google was fined 42.9 billion won ($32 million), while Apple received a 20.8 billion won ($15.5 million) penalty. The commission also ordered both companies to allow South Korean developers to use external payment links within their apps and to improve their app review procedures.
The investigation stemmed from a 2021 law that prohibits app store operators from mandating the use of specific payment systems. The commission accused Google and Apple of pushing developers toward their own in-app payment systems while restricting payments through external websites. Although third-party payment systems were technically allowed, the companies charged a 26% commission and withheld certain features, effectively forcing developers to use their in-app systems.
South Korea has long scrutinized the business practices of foreign tech companies. The latest fines underscore the country's commitment to enforcing fair competition in its digital market. Neither Google nor Apple immediately responded to requests for comment.