Naver Joins QR Code Electronic Entry Log System... Kakao Fails to Participate (Comprehensive)

[Asia Economy Reporter Jin-gyu Lee] It has become possible to use the Naver application or web when entering high-risk facilities for the spread of COVID-19, such as karaoke rooms or clubs. However, Kakao has decided not to participate in the QR code electronic entry log (KI-Pass) system.

On the 10th, Naver announced that it will support a service that automatically records entry logs in the QR code electronic entry log system. This is due to the mandatory implementation of QR code electronic entry logs starting from this day. Previously, the visitor's name and other details had to be written manually. Naver stated, "As a leading domestic internet platform, we actively cooperate with the government's QR code-based electronic entry log system for national-level quarantine management," adding, "Among internet platform companies, Naver is the first to cooperate in the nationwide effort for COVID-19 prevention."

The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters announced on the 24th of last month a plan to establish an electronic entry log system using IT technology for COVID-19 epidemiological investigations and has been conducting pilot operations at 16 facilities in Seoul, Incheon, and Daejeon until the 7th. Naver also checked service stability and security during this period.

The method to use the electronic entry log via Naver service is simple. Just click the 'QR Check-in' button provided in the 'My Drawer' feature that appears when clicking the profile icon at the top right of the logged-in Naver app or web. For first-time users, only mobile phone number verification once a month is required. Alternatively, it can be used by clicking the banner located at the bottom of the Naver homepage search bar or by entering search terms such as 'QR code electronic log,' 'QR code electronic entry log,' 'electronic entry log,' 'QR code entry,' or 'QR KI Pass.'

The user's Naver app electronic entry log QR code is encrypted and then stored in a distributed manner with the Social Security Information Service. The quarantine authorities combine these two pieces of information only when epidemiological investigation is necessary to identify the user. Since this information is automatically deleted after four weeks, it is expected to be safer than manual logs.

Along with this, Naver has been providing COVID-19 related information through a banner at the bottom of the mobile search bar since February. From March, it has been providing public mask stock status information through Naver Search and Maps, and from April, it has also been providing information on local currency affiliated stores. Han Seong-sook, CEO of Naver, said, "In a situation where the importance of internet platform services is becoming more significant than ever, we will do our best to fulfill our social responsibilities and the role of the times as a leading domestic internet company."

On the other hand, Kakao initially expressed willingness to participate in the electronic entry log system but ultimately decided not to join this service. Initially, Kakao proposed applying the QR code through the KakaoPay app, but it is known that opinions diverged after the government requested using KakaoTalk (KakaoTalk). Kakao's position is that it is difficult to provide QR codes for electronic entry logs within the KakaoTalk service.

Meanwhile, the three major mobile carriers' identity verification app 'PASS' is also reportedly pushing to participate in the electronic entry log system.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.