Kakao delays split, speeds up W150b share buyback

What happened: Kakao delayed its corporate split by one month to February 2027, citing a longer than expected preliminary relisting review by the Korea Exchange, and moved up a 150 billion won share buyback and cancellation plan. Key numbers: Split moved from Jan. 1 to Feb. 1. Why it matters: The plan has raised concerns among securities firms over a potential holding company discount for Kakao X and uncertainty about the profitability of Kakao's AI business. Kakao said the accelerated buyback underscores its commitment to shareholder returns ahead of the restructuring.

Kakao delayed its corporate split by one month to February 2027, citing a longer than expected preliminary relisting review by the Korea Exchange, and moved up a 150 billion won share buyback and cancellation plan.

The plan has raised concerns among securities firms over a potential holding company discount for Kakao X and uncertainty about the profitability of Kakao's AI business. Kakao said the accelerated buyback underscores its commitment to shareholder returns ahead of the restructuring.