South Korea Issues Warning to Google and Apple Over App Market Practices
South Korea Issues Warning to Google and Apple Over App Market Practices
South Korea’s telecommunications regulator recently issued a stern warning to tech giants Alphabet Inc.’s Google and Apple, alleging that they have exploited their dominant position in the app market. This development raises the possibility of substantial fines, with a total amount of up to $50.5 million on the line. In this article, we delve into the specifics of the allegations and the companies’ responses.
Allegations of App Market Dominance
The Korea Communications Commission (KCC) has taken a firm stance against Google and Apple, asserting that they have exerted undue influence on app developers. This influence reportedly stems from the enforcement of specific payment methods and causing unjustifiable delays in app review processes.
The KCC’s Proposed Action
The KCC has initiated the process by notifying both companies about the need for corrective measures. Alongside this, the commission will consider imposing fines on the tech giants, but this decision will be made after thorough deliberation.
Response from Google and Apple
Google responded to the KCC’s “pre-notice” with a statement to Reuters, stating, “What KCC has shared today is the ‘pre-notice’ and we will carefully review and submit our response. Once the final written decision is shared with us, we will carefully review to evaluate the next course of action.”
Apple also weighed in, asserting that they disagree with the KCC’s conclusions in their Examiner’s Report. They maintain that the changes they have implemented in the App Store align with the Telecommunications Business Act and intend to engage further with the KCC to express their views.
Background: Telecommunication Business Act Amendment
This dispute harkens back to 2021 when South Korea passed an amendment to the Telecommunication Business Act. This legislation specifically prohibited app store operators from mandating that software developers use their payment systems. The KCC argues that Google and Apple’s enforcement of particular payment methods, along with Apple’s practice of imposing “discriminatory fees on domestic app developers,” threatens the core principle of promoting fair competition outlined in the law.
Potential Fines
After receiving input from both companies, the KCC may decide to impose fines, which could amount to a staggering 68 billion won, equivalent to $50.47 million. Of this, Google may face fines of 47.5 billion won, while Apple could be subject to 20.5 billion won in penalties.
South Korea’s telecommunications regulator’s actions have drawn significant attention to the practices of tech giants Google and Apple in the app market. The allegations and the subsequent response from both companies highlight the importance of adhering to laws that promote fair competition and protect the interests of app developers and users alike. The world will closely watch the outcome of this case, which may have far-reaching implications for the app market as a whole.
