South Korea Fines Apple, Google Millions Over App Store

South Korea has fined Apple and Google over their App Store practices, joining a growing list of countries taking action against the tech giants. The Korea Media and Communication Commission imposed a $15.5 million fine on Apple and a $32 million fine on Google, double that of Apple, following years of investigations. The fines relate to a 2021 South Korean law requiring App Stores not to prevent developers from using alternative payment systems.

The regulator concluded that while both firms theoretically allowed rival payment systems, they charged such high fees in practice that developers were deterred from using them. The commission also found instances where apps were seemingly delayed during review processes. As part of the rulings, Apple and Google are now ordered to allow external payment links in apps and improve their app review processes.

This South Korean fine follows the UK denying Apple's appeal against a $2 billion App Store fine. Apple has also faced similar App Store issues with the Netherlands, France, Russia, and more. Neither Google nor Apple have commented publicly on the ruling.

In August 2026, Apple's SEC filing noted the impact of such international rulings, warning that if developers use alternative payment methods, Apple may earn lower commissions or none at all. Reports claimed Apple's US App Store commission revenue declined 18% between January and August 2026, as App Store sales dropped 6% year over year in Q2 2026.

Source: AppleInsider · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing