Kakao to split into KakaoAI and KakaoX entities

Kakao corporate spin-off artificial intelligence business restructuring South Korea tech

Kakao Corp has approved a plan to split into two separate listed entities: KakaoAI and KakaoX. The restructuring aims to increase business specialization and address conglomerate discounts by separating the company's AI-driven platform operations from its investment and vertical business sectors.

KakaoAI will focus on the KakaoTalk messenger platform, integrating artificial intelligence, advertising, and commerce. The company has set a 2030 revenue target of over 6 trillion won for this entity. KakaoX will serve as an investment-focused firm managing fintech, content, and mobility businesses, with a 2030 revenue goal exceeding 10 trillion won.

The split ratio is set at 0.36 for KakaoAI and 0.64 for KakaoX based on net asset book value. Existing shareholders will receive shares in both companies. The demerger is scheduled for completion on January 1, 2025, with relisting expected on the Korea Exchange by late January 2027. To support shareholders, Kakao announced a 300 billion won treasury stock buyback and cancellation plan.

Entities

Chung Shin-a · Kakao · Kakao Corp · KakaoAI · KakaoX · Kim Do-young · Shin Jeong-su

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 5 SOURCES] The split ratio based on net asset book value is 0.36 for KakaoAI and 0.64 for KakaoX. platum.kr · www.hani.co.kr · www.koreaherald.com · zdnet.co.kr
[● 4 SOURCES] Shin Jeong-su is slated to lead KakaoAI. platum.kr · www.hani.co.kr · www.koreaherald.com
[● 5 SOURCES] Kim Do-young is slated to lead KakaoX. platum.kr · www.hani.co.kr · www.koreaherald.com · zdnet.co.kr
[● 5 SOURCES] KakaoAI aims for annual revenue of over 6 trillion won by 2030. platum.kr · www.businesstimes.com.sg · www.hani.co.kr · zdnet.co.kr
[● 6 SOURCES] Kakao has resolved to split into two entities: KakaoAI and KakaoX. platum.kr · www.businesstimes.com.sg · www.hani.co.kr · www.koreaherald.com · zdnet.co.kr
[● 3 SOURCES] The company plans to complete the final split on January 1, 2025. www.businesstimes.com.sg · www.hani.co.kr
[● 3 SOURCES] Kakao will conduct a 300 billion won treasury stock buyback and cancellation. www.businesstimes.com.sg · www.hani.co.kr
[● 5 SOURCES] KakaoX aims for annual revenue of over 10 trillion won by 2030. platum.kr · www.businesstimes.com.sg · www.hani.co.kr · zdnet.co.kr