Apple Refuses to Let Epic Back on App Store in South Korea Despite New Law

Apple has refused to let Epic Games back on the App Store in South Korea despite the passing of a bill that prevents large app-market operators from requiring the use of their in-app purchasing systems.

Yesterday, Epic announced that it had requested its developer account be reinstated so that it could release an updated version of its app in South Korea that offers both Epic payment and Apple payment.

Epic has asked Apple to restore our Fortnite developer account. Epic intends to re-release Fortnite on iOS in Korea offering both Epic payment and Apple payment side-by-side in compliance with the new Korean law.


In a statement, Apple says it's under no obligation to let Epic back onto the Apple Store.

“As we’ve said all along, we would welcome Epic’s return to the App Store if they agree to play by the same rules as everyone else,” an Apple spokesperson says in a statement to The Verge. “Epic has admitted to breach of contract and as of now, there’s no legitimate basis for the reinstatement of their developer account.”

Given the intense legal battle between the companies, this is likely to spark more litigation. Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for updates.