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Games & Commerce

Kakao steps up AI shift under Jeong Shin-a second term; key test is proving monetisation

Kakao is accelerating its shift to artificial intelligence in the second term of CEO Jeong Shin-a, after a first phase focused on restructuring affiliates and governance. The company is redefining KakaoTalk as an AI-based execution platform and expanding external partnerships and global business initiatives. Kakao has set targets for revenue growth and profitability and plans shareholder returns. Investors remain focused on when and how AI monetisation will show up in earnings.

Industry

E-commerce firms bet on beauty as new growth engine

South Korean e-commerce companies are expanding their beauty categories as a new growth engine, leveraging existing memberships and logistics infrastructure. Platforms including Coupang, Kurly and Musinsa are widening their business scope, with early movers bringing in luxury and indie brands and later entrants strengthening foundations through offline touchpoints. Musinsa, Zigzag and Ably are also pushing beauty expansion. Companies are also increasing private-label launches, while competition is expected to intensify.

Finance

Seoul to start race to pick 51 trillion won city treasury bank

Seoul has begun procedures to select its next city treasury bank to manage 51.48 trillion won in funds, intensifying competition among lenders. The winner will handle revenue collection, payments and cash management from 2027 to 2030, with separate roles for the first and second treasuries. Shinhan Bank and Woori Bank are expected to be central rivals, while participation by KB Kookmin Bank and Hana Bank is also being watched.