Kakao to Launch Subscription-Based Content Platform in August

[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Nahum] Kakao will launch a subscription-based content platform in August.

According to Kakao on the 17th, a closed beta test (CBT) of the new content subscription platform has been underway since the 15th. It is being conducted through the 'Kakao Creator Center' and is targeted at some creators and organizations.

A Kakao representative explained, "The full service is scheduled to be launched in August, but the service name has not yet been decided."

This service allows anyone to edit and publish content such as news, videos, audio, and posts, and aims to be an 'open content curation platform' where users receive content tailored to their interests and preferences.

Content edited by creators is published in the form of a 'board.' Unlike the 'feed' style on platforms like Facebook, where content is displayed one item at a time, it boasts the advantage of allowing users to view various perspectives and types of content at a glance.

Users can receive boards published by creators they subscribe to in a new tab on KakaoTalk. Kakao platforms such as KakaoTV, Brunch, Tistory, Content View, and Daum News are integrated, as well as services like YouTube and Instagram. Additionally, outlinks can be used to include desired content.

Free subscriptions will be the default, with revenue models such as advertising and paid subscriptions to be added.

A Kakao representative stated, "Even after the subscription platform is launched, 'Daum News' will remain as is," and added, "We will continue to enhance services to improve user news selection options and convenience, such as the 'media selection feature' introduced last March."

A clash with Naver in the domestic subscription economy market appears inevitable. Earlier, Naver also began a CBT for its paid content subscription platform 'Premium Content' last month. Premium Content is a platform where creators produce and sell content such as articles, videos, and audio for a fee. After a pilot operation, it plans to launch the official service soon for anyone to use.