GoKawiilSouth Korea fines Google $32M, Apple $15.5M over app store payment rules
South Korea's Korea Media and Communications Commission fined Google 42.9 billion won and Apple 20.8 billion won, totaling about $47.6 million, for violating a 2021 law requiring app stores to allow alternative payment systems. The regulator said both companies effectively forced developers to use their own payment systems by charging a 26% commission and withholding features from third-party options, and also delayed app reviews without explanation. Apple was additionally accused of overcharging Korean developers compared with developers elsewhere between 2015 and January 2023.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The ruling reinforces South Korea's position as an early enforcer of app store competition rules, potentially encouraging other regulators to pursue similar cases against Google and Apple. The required changes—allowing external payment links and faster, clearer app reviews—could set a precedent that other markets point to when pressing the companies for similar concessions.
- South Korea fined Google $32M and Apple $15.5M for abusing app store dominance
- Regulator says both companies effectively forced developers onto in-app payment systems via fees and feature restrictions
- Apple separately accused of overcharging Korean developers from 2015 to 2023
Source: fastcompany.com, 2026-10-28
Published there as: “Google and Apple hit with a combined fine of $47.6 million by South Korea’s watchdog”
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