"KT Launches 'Text Check-in' Service Using Text Instead of Complex QR Codes"

Entry Information Recording and Marketing Data Provision
'Two-Way' Service for Self-Employed Entrepreneurs

[Asia Economy Reporter Cha Min-young] A customized two-way 'Text Check-in' service for self-employed business owners has been launched, allowing customers to record their entry with a single text message instead of QR check-in, while also enabling stores to promote themselves to customers.

KT announced on the 18th that it has launched a text check-in service that allows customers visiting stores to record their entry information with just one text message.

This is a business-to-business (B2B) service designed for restaurants and offline stores. Customers entering the store can easily record their entry by sending a text message to the store's dedicated number using their mobile phones.

KT explained that the text check-in service was introduced for customers who find it difficult to generate QR codes or are reluctant to fill out handwritten logs, while still complying with quarantine guidelines. Upon sending, a registration completion message is sent back to the customer, and the visit history remains only in the form of text message records, reducing the risk of personal information leakage.

Along with this, an internet address (URL) allowing customers to choose whether to consent to the use of personal information and receipt of marketing information is sent. If the customer agrees, the store can provide customized information such as discount details, coupons, and business hours, enabling two-way communication.

The text check-in service is available as a monthly subscription. Based on the 300 free text message plan that can provide customized information, subscriptions start from 3,300 KRW per month.

Before the service launch, KT provided a pilot service at five locations near Gwanghwamun in Seoul, including restaurants, coffee shops, and fitness centers, receiving positive feedback from business owners who found it helpful for quarantine management and marketing. KT will continue to improve and expand the service by collecting feedback from businesses.

Min Hye-byeong, Head of KT Enterprise Division Service DX Headquarters, said, “We launched the text check-in service to assist self-employed business owners who are balancing quarantine and business activities even during the COVID-19 situation,” adding, “We will continue to introduce customized services to support the quarantine and promotion efforts of self-employed business owners.”

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