South Korean messenger KakaoTalk increased its monthly active audience in Russia by 82% in March 2026, reaching 436.4 thousand unique users. According to Lee Seung Tae, PR Manager of Kakao Corporation, to RIA Novosti, the key factor was full support for the Russian language at the interface and function level.
The messenger already includes voice and video calls, file sharing, and news channels, with all elements localized. The company intends to further develop the service's capabilities for foreign audiences, expanding language support and adapting functionality to regional habits.
In South Korea itself, the platform has long operated as a superapp with built-in advertising and commercial services, but there is no advertising in Russia yet.
The appearance of advertising tools in the future is not excluded. For now, KakaoTalk is perceived by Russians as an alternative communication channel with clear management and stable operation without the need to use a VPN.