South Korea's Media and Communications Commission announced on October 28, 2026, that it had fined Apple 20.8 billion won (about $15.5 million) and Google 42.9 billion won (about $32 million). The regulator said the companies restricted alternative in-app payment options and, in some cases, unfairly delayed app reviews.
The commission ordered the companies to allow external payment links within apps in South Korea and improve app review procedures. The investigation concerns South Korean law and market practices; the decision does not itself establish any change to App Store rules in Serbia or the United States.
Apple said it disagrees with the decision, believes its practices comply with local law, and is considering legal options. It also cited the security benefits of its payment system. Source: Associated Press, October 28, 2026.