South Korean Internet Giant Kakao Launches Major Spin-Off, Unveils New Artificial Intelligence Company “Kakao AI”

According to reports from South Korean media outlet Chosun Ilbo, internet giant Kakao announced that its board of directors has approved a corporate spin-off plan. The company intends to establish a new entity named "Kakao AI" while retaining "Kakao X", with each focusing respectively on artificial intelligence platforms and investments, as well as fintech, content, and mobility services. Under the proposal, the book value of net assets will be allocated between the two companies at a ratio of 36% to 64%. Existing shareholders will receive shares in both entities in proportion to this split. Following the spin-off, Kakao AI will take primary responsibility for KakaoTalk and AI operations. The company plans to upgrade KakaoTalk, which currently serves approximately 50 million users, into an "AI agent-style interface" designed to understand user intent and conversational context. As scheduled, Kakao will convene a special general meeting of shareholders on December 17, complete the corporate separation on January 1, 2027, and proceed with Kakao AI's relisting and Kakao X's change of listing venue on January 27.