South Korea's Financial Supervisory Service said on Monday it has prepared conflict-of-interest prevention guidelines for the banking industry with the Korea Federation of Banks and the sector to curb improper dealings involving employees and interested parties. The guidelines reflect international standards and detail the scope of interested parties and related-party transactions, including credit provision and lease contracts. They also introduce step-by-step internal controls, expand disciplinary action regardless of losses, and promote whistleblower protection and rewards. Banks plan to apply the rules from July.

KakaoGames said on Monday it has started global pre-registration for 'SMiniz,' a new title based on SM Entertainment's intellectual property. The pre-registration runs through Feb. 23 in markets including South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, North America and Europe. KakaoGames will also open an official brand page for sign-ups. The company is preparing for a formal launch in the first quarter of this year and will handle global publishing and service.