South Korea’s media watchdog has approved new regulations requiring bulk phone text messaging service providers to introduce stronger safeguards against illegal spam in order to maintain their certification, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
The Korea Media and Communications Commission held its first regular meeting since its launch in October 2025 and announced the measures as part of a broader government effort to curb unlawful messaging activities.
Under the new framework, companies seeking certification for bulk transmissions must meet 16 standards. These include implementing banned-word filtering systems and establishing controls to prevent misuse of messaging platforms for criminal purposes.
Authorities said certifications will be revoked if messages connected to illegal activities such as drug trafficking, gambling or unlawful lending are detected. Certified providers will also face annual reviews to ensure ongoing compliance with the rules.
The proposed regulations must still undergo review by the Ministry of Government Legislation and receive Cabinet approval before taking effect.
KMCC Chairperson Kim Jong-cheol said the policy would strengthen oversight of message distributors and reduce public inconvenience caused by illegal spam. He added that the commission would continue efforts to address the growing problem of fraudulent and unlawful text messaging.
The move follows a March decision by the Cabinet to revise the communications law, allowing authorities to impose fines of up to 6% of relevant sales on illegal spam senders, as well as on mobile carriers that fail to properly prevent such activity.
The amendment came amid criticism that previous penalties, capped at KRW 30m (US$20,200), were insufficient given the profits generated by illegal spam operations.
n March, South Korea approved fines of up to 6% of relevant sales for illegal spam senders and mobile carriers that fail to prevent them
