Kakao is enhancing communication with its employees in preparation for a corporate split scheduled for January. The company plans to transfer all employees' employment and working conditions to the new entity, KakaoAI, while maintaining existing welfare and work environments.
On October 15, Kakao held an 'Open Talk' for employees, as announced on the 16th. This session followed previous open talks held in August and a briefing for performance leaders in September, focusing on the current status of the corporate split.
The Open Talk featured CEO Jeong Shin-a and key executives, including Chief Financial Officer Shin Jong-hwan and Chief Technology Officer Song Jae-ha, who discussed the preparations for the split and key agenda items.
Kakao has established a task force involving major departments such as technology, finance, and human resources to oversee the split and is systematically preparing for it by reviewing various practical tasks. A dedicated channel for employees to ask questions is also in operation.
CEO Jeong emphasized that the corporate split represents not just a separation but a new beginning. He stated, “Preparing for the new company involves establishing a framework as an independent entity, ensuring users can continue to access existing services without disruption, while also redesigning the structure and standards to fit the new company.”
During the Q&A session, specific measures regarding employment and working conditions, which are of great interest to employees, were presented. The company confirmed that all rights and obligations related to Kakao's existing business will be transferred to the new entity, KakaoAI, ensuring comprehensive succession of employment and working conditions for all employees. Existing benefits, including vacation and work systems, as well as the work environment, childcare services, loans, in-house dining, and recreational facilities, will also be maintained.
Kakao plans to split into two entities: the continuing company 'KakaoX' and the new company 'KakaoAI.' KakaoX will hold stakes in major affiliates and manage group-level business synergies and capital allocation, while KakaoAI will oversee existing services, including KakaoTalk, and AI operations.
To facilitate this, an extraordinary shareholders' meeting will be held on December 17, with the split expected to be completed by January 1, 2027. KakaoAI is set to be relisted, and KakaoX will undergo a name change on January 27, 2027. The detailed schedule may change based on discussions with relevant authorities and related procedures.
Kakao is also continuing its communication with shareholders and analysts. In September, the company held a meeting with minority shareholders and conducted a joint analyst briefing with the CEOs of major affiliates on October 13. A second meeting with minority shareholders is scheduled for October 20, where the company will address questions related to the corporate split.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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