Asia

Billionaire Kakao Founder Cleared in Stock Manipulation Case

Brian Kim leaves court in Seoul on Oct. 21.Photographer: Jean Chung/Bloomberg

Provide news feedback or report an error

Confidential tip?

Send a tip to our reporters

Site feedback:

Take our Survey

By Yoolim Lee and Shinhye Kang

October 21, 2025 at 2:39 AM UTC

Updated on

October 21, 2025 at 3:53 AM UTC

A South Korean court dismissed the stock manipulation case against Kakao Corp. founder Brian Kim, clearing the billionaire of charges that marred his reputation as an internet pioneer.

Prosecutors had sought a 15-year prison term and a 500 million won ($350,000) fine for Kim, accusing him of rigging the stock price of K-pop powerhouse SM Entertainment Co. in a high-stakes acquisition battle with rival Hybe Co.