Will Spam Text Bombs Decrease?... Illegal Spam Prevention System to Be Implemented on the 28th

by Kong Byeongseon

Published 24 Apr.2026 10:37(KST)

A system that certifies the illegal spam prevention capabilities of bulk SMS service providers will be implemented starting April 28.

Broadcast Media and Communications Committee logo. Provided by Broadcast Media and Communications Committee

The Transmission Qualification Certification System is a program in which the Broadcast Media and Communications Committee (BMCC) certifies whether entities seeking to operate a bulk SMS business possess adequate capabilities to prevent illegal spam. This system was established to strengthen the accountability of message senders in response to the recent surge in illegal spam text messages. Previously, anyone could become a bulk SMS provider simply by submitting a basic notification. However, after the implementation of this system, providers must obtain transmission qualification certification. Service providers that fail to obtain certification will not be permitted to send messages using the networks of telecom companies or intermediaries.

In this context, the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Broadcast Media and Communications Committee, and the Korea Internet & Security Agency announced on April 24 that they will hold a "Transmission Qualification Certification System and Registration Requirements Improvement Seminar" in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on April 28. The seminar is intended to inform those seeking to operate bulk SMS businesses about the details of the transmission qualification certification system and improvements to registration requirements.

The Broadcast Media and Communications Committee will explain the background behind the introduction of the transmission qualification certification system, the application process, and the review procedures. In addition, the committee will provide guidance on the annual inspections-conducted in person, in writing, or by phone-to confirm whether certified providers continue to meet the required standards, as well as the criteria for revoking certification.

The Ministry of Science and ICT will provide information on the key measures to strengthen registration requirements for bulk SMS providers, regular inspection protocols, and more. The ministry will also explain rules for the expulsion of bulk SMS providers who neglect illegal spam by failing to meet registration conditions or having their certification revoked, as well as clarify requirements for technical measures, information security personnel, and paid-in capital.

The Korea Internet & Security Agency will outline the guidelines for transmission qualification certification standards, dividing them into five areas and sixteen items: document adequacy, user management, technical measures, illegal spam blocking, and financial and human resources. The agency will also provide guidance on the documents operators need to prepare to obtain certification and methods for proving compliance.

Guidance materials regarding the amended enforcement decree related to the implementation of the transmission qualification certification system, relevant notifications, and application process manuals can be found on the BMCC website.