Starting today, Kakao will strengthen measures against violent extremist content such as conversations aimed at child and youth sexual exploitation or terrorism planning.
According to the information and communication technology (ICT) industry on the 16th, Kakao will implement the revised KakaoTalk operating policy from today.
Content subject to sanctions includes so-called 'grooming', which is a luring act for sexual exploitation, conversations for prostitution and sexual exploitation purposes, and violent extremist content related to terrorism preparation, conspiracy, and incitement.
According to Kakao, acts that suggest sexual encounters for a price, creating chat rooms for sexual conversations, or inviting other users can be judged as conversations aimed at child and youth sexual exploitation.
Kakao's position is that if such acts are confirmed, access to the entire KakaoTalk service will be permanently restricted.
Additionally, new regulations have been established to sanction content that justifies violent acts to realize political or religious beliefs.
This includes content that praises, supports, or promotes groups classified as terrorist organizations or extremist groups, as well as expressions of support or sympathy for these groups through their symbols, slogans, or flags.
Furthermore, prohibitions against illegal debt collection activities within KakaoTalk, and the creation and operation of false accounts were also included.