ChatGPT’s Explosive User Surge in South Korea: What You MUST Know Before It’s Too Late!

Seoul: The rise of generative artificial intelligence has taken a significant leap in South Korea, with ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, emerging as the fastest-growing smartphone app in the country this year. A recent survey conducted by industry tracker Wiseapp Retail revealed that the number of users of the ChatGPT app surged by an impressive 196.6 percent in November compared to January. This dramatic increase places it ahead of other popular apps in the region.

To put this growth into perspective, the second place was claimed by Daiso Mall, an online platform of the popular discount retail chain Daiso, which saw a growth rate of 31.9 percent. Following closely was Olive Young, a beauty retailer, with a growth of 30.8 percent, and Monino, an asset-management app linked to users of Samsung Group's financial affiliates, which grew by 28.1 percent.

Not only is ChatGPT showing remarkable growth, but it is also the most-used smartphone app in South Korea during this period, amassing a monthly average of 16.7 million users. In comparison, Kakao Pay came in second with 9.1 million users, while Olive Young attracted 8.6 million users.

In a move that further integrates ChatGPT into everyday communication, Kakao recently announced that the AI platform is now accessible via the KakaoTalk messaging app. This feature allows users to access ChatGPT with a single tap, enabling them to share AI-generated conversations, images, and text with friends in real time. Existing ChatGPT users can utilize this service within KakaoTalk using their preexisting accounts. This rollout is a significant milestone in the partnership formed between Kakao and OpenAI in February, marking Kakao's strategic effort to join a global AI alliance amid escalating competition in the tech landscape.

Additionally, the popularity of ChatGPT has been escalating rapidly. Earlier this year, data indicated that the number of ChatGPT users in South Korea surpassed 20 million for the first time in August, reaching a remarkable monthly active user count of 20.31 million. This figure represents a substantial increase from just 4.07 million users a year prior, highlighting the rapid adoption of AI technologies among consumers.

As the competitive landscape for apps continues to evolve, the rise of ChatGPT in South Korea is not just a trend but a reflection of the increasing integration of AI into daily life. With its ability to generate human-like text and assist users in various tasks, ChatGPT is setting a precedent for the future of app functionality and user engagement.

The implications of this growth extend beyond mere numbers; it signals a broader acceptance of AI technologies among consumers and a shift in how individuals interact with digital platforms. As companies like Kakao and OpenAI continue to innovate and collaborate, the potential for AI to enhance communication and user experience remains vast, potentially reshaping digital interactions in South Korea and beyond.