Apple Pay in South Korea: this time it’s (really) coming soon

After a false start and much procrastination from the administrative authorities, Apple Pay really getting ready to make its big debut in South Korea. The Financial Services Commission had looked into the exclusivity contract that linked Hyundai to Apple Pay, and it was finally decided to cancel this deal: “During the authorization process, Hyundai Card decided to remove the exclusivity clause that was included in the initial contract. Therefore, other credit card companies may contract with Apple to provide Apple Pay service in Korea at any time. » thus specified one of the persons in charge for the FSC. Hyundai Card will only be able to benefit from the service a little in advance, in particular in the shops of Costco, Lotte Himart, Ediya, Mega Coffee, KFC etc.

This new arrangement should not be so unfavorable to Apple since Apple Pay can now be compatible with all payment cards used in South Korea. As a reminder, the FSC had blocked the launch of Apple Pay at Hyundai Card almost at the last minute: advertisements announcing the availability of Apple Pay were even already visible in Seoul! Finally, in addition to Hyundai Card, Apple Pay will also be compatible with credit cards from Shinhan, Samsung (yes!) and BC.