South Korea Rules Against Apple Over App Store Payment Rules

South Korea has imposed a fine of 20.8 billion won ($15.5 million) on Apple and mandated the company to permit developers to incorporate external payment options within their applications, according to The Associated Press. The Korea Communications Commission determined that Apple and Google were in breach of a 2021 law aimed at facilitating alternative payment methods.

Google itself faced a fine of 42.9 billion won ($32 million). While both corporations permitted third-party payment services within apps, they imposed a 26% commission from developers and restricted certain features. The regulator contended that these conditions pushed developers towards Apple and Google's payment systems, thereby diminishing their alternative options.

The companies have been instructed to enhance their app review procedures. Notably, the commission found that some app reviews were delayed without a clear explanation or an estimate of when they would resume. Additionally, it was discovered that Apple charged South Korean developers a higher commission than those from overseas between 2015 and January 2023.

Apple responded to the AP, expressing disagreement with the ruling and stating that it is contemplating its legal avenues. The firm maintains that its policies adhere to South Korean law and that its payment system safeguards customers from fraud.