Kakao Founder Cleared of Stock Manipulation Charges, Shares Surge
A South Korean court dismissed stock manipulation charges against Kakao founder Kim Beom-su, triggering a 6% rally in the company's shares to 62,300 KRW. Prosecutors had sought a 15-year prison term and a $350,000 fine over alleged interference in Hybe's attempted acquisition of SM Entertainment.
Kim's release on bail last October marked a turning point for Kakao, whose ecosystem—spanning messaging, gaming, and fintech—controls 94 trillion won ($66 billion) in assets. The ruling removes a key overhang for Korea's dominant digital platform as it seeks to regain investor confidence.