South Korea fines Google and Apple 63.7bn won and orders them to allow links to outside payment pages in apps

South Korea's Media and Communications Commission (KMCC) fined Google and Apple a combined 63.7 billion won, about $47.6 million, on 28 October 2026. Google's share is 42.9 billion won and Apple's 20.81 billion won. The penalties are the first enforcement of the 2021 amendment to the Telecommunications Business Act, which bars app store operators from forcing developers to use a particular payment method. The regulator found that both companies allowed only their own billing or third-party payment systems built into the app, and blocked links to external payment websites. Developers who chose third-party payments still faced a 26% commission and conditions the KMCC called unreasonable. It also said Google limited how developers could show different prices for different payment methods, Apple required a separate app for developers using third-party payments, and both delayed app reviews without clear reasons. Alongside the fines, the KMCC issued corrective orders. Both companies must allow in-app links to outside payment pages and revise how they charge commission on third-party payments, within three months of receiving the orders. The investigation began in August 2022, and a provisional decision in 2023 had no legal effect. Google said it regretted that its compliance efforts were not reflected. Apple said it respectfully disagrees and is weighing its options. Google had already announced external payment options and lower fees from 31 December 2026, which the regulator did not take into account. For merchants that sell digital goods, subscriptions or services through apps in Korea, the orders could reopen web checkout as a cheaper route, with the merchant's own payment provider, local wallets and cards. How much is saved will depend on the commission the stores set on linked-out purchases.