Apple Rejects Fortnite’s Bid For App Store Return In South Korea

Apple has rejected Epic Games’ plea to reinstate Fortnite in the App Store ahead of South Korea’s landmark law that grants app developers the right to offer their own payment methods, according to multiple media reports.

South Korea’s National Assembly passed an amendment to the Telecommunications Business Act, called the “Anti-Google law,” on August 31. It is expected to be signed by President Moon Jae-in and to go into effect on Wednesday, September 15. South Korea is the first country to legislate how Apple Pay and Google Pay payments are processed.

Epic was booted from the Apple App Store last August when the North Carolina game maker launched a payment platform to sidestep Apple’s payment system and 30% commission.

“We would welcome Epic’s return to the App Store if they agree to play by the same rules as everyone else,” Apple said in a statement, adding that Epic admitted it had breached its contract, so reinstatement is not on the table at the moment.

Apple stated that even if South Korea’s amendment becomes law, Fortnite would still have to comply with the App Store’s review guidelines. Additionally, Apple stated it controls who is allowed into its App Store.

After being ousted from the Apple App Store last year, Epic launched a lawsuit accusing the iPhone maker of running a monopoly by controlling payments. The federal case in California is awaiting a verdict.

Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.