Why Russians now prefer KakaoTalk over Telegram
Russian users are increasingly turning to the Korean messaging app KakaoTalk amid tightening internet regulations and security concerns surrounding Telegram. Telegram has faced criticism for its cooperation with authorities and vulnerabilities in message encryption, while KakaoTalk's limited data retention and foreign server storage make it more appealing. The Russian government's promotion of its own app, Max, and restrictions on foreign platforms are accelerating this shift in user preference.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
KakaoTalk logoTightening security and an escalating internet crackdown are costing Telegram its Russian users, who are now turning to Korean messaging app KakaoTalk.This chart generated by artificial intelligence shows the sharp increase of KakaoTalk active users in Russia. As Russian authorities restrict Telegram and mandate state-approved alternatives such as Max, users are seeking refuge in foreign platforms. Russian daily newspaper Kommersant on April 13 reported that KakaoTalk's active Russian users reached 436,400 in March, an 82 percent surge from the previous month. This figure represents 8.7 percent of KakaoTalk’s global overseas monthly active users as of the fourth quarter of 2025.The shift occurs as Telegram’s security protocols face critical vulnerabilities.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Korea Times.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Korea Times
