Twitch Is Going Offline In South Korea Because Operations Are Too Expensive Over There

Annyeonghi gaseyo, Twitch.

The American video live streaming service is ceasing operations in South Korea on February 27, 2024. This announcement came from CEO Dan Clancy in a blog post yesterday. 

Apparently, it is simply way too expensive for Twitch to stay afloat in the country. He said that network fees in South Korea are 10 times more expensive than in most other countries, making it challenging for the business to operate sustainably. 

That being said, Korean streamers aren’t totally doomed. In response to the shutdown, the platform plans to assist them in transitioning to "alternative live streaming services." Twitch is reportedly in discussions with various platforms to facilitate the move, and Clancy expressed disappointment over the difficult decision — emphasizing the company’s gratitude for the special role South Korea has played in the international esports community.