TikTok Fined 10.3 Billion KRW for Illegal Data Collection in South Korea
The Personal Information Protection Commission of South Korea ruled that TikTok illegally collected behavioral data of approximately 9.45 million South Korean users for targeted advertising without consent, resulting in a fine of 10.3 billion KRW and a mandate for corrective measures.
What are the key facts?
- 1Fine of 10.3 billion KRW (approximately $7 million)
- 2Illegal collection of 9.45 million users' behavioral data
- 3Used for targeted advertising
What happened?
The PIPC of South Korea ruled that TikTok's Singapore entity illegally collected data from 9.45 million users for targeted advertising and imposed a fine of 10.3 billion KRW. South Korea plans to amend its law in September 2026, increasing the maximum fines for serious violations to 10% of revenue.
What does this mean for cross-border sellers?
Global data privacy regulations are tightening. Sellers must strictly comply with local laws regarding advertising and user data processing, ensuring user authorization is in place.