#South Korea #Seoul #ONE Store #App Marketplace #Korean apps

ONE Store's Rise to the Top

ONE Store proudly announces its status as the second-largest app marketplace in South Korea, a significant milestone that underlines its success amidst fierce competition from global giants. From its inception in 2016, ONE Store has rapidly evolved, establishing itself as a major player in the global app economy. Recent data from IGAWorks' Mobile Index illustrates that ONE Store garnered a substantial 12.6% share of game transactions from the second half of 2020 to the first half of 2025. This impressive statistic highlights an upward trend, reinforcing its reputation in the digital marketplace.

The landscape of mobile applications is marked by constant change, with developers often facing challenges such as high fees and saturated markets. ONE Store has differentiated itself from its competitors through a unique approach that prioritizes cost-effectiveness for developers and enhanced rewards for users. To date, developers have saved around KRW 380 billion (approximately USD 257 million) in transaction fees. Simultaneously, users have enjoyed discounts totaling about KRW 690 billion (approximately USD 467 million), demonstrating ONE Store's commitment to creating a symbiotic relationship between the platform and its participants.

A Closer Look at the Numbers

In the first half of 2025, the competitive edge of ONE Store was further exemplified as they accounted for a remarkable 49.2% share of transaction value among the top 50 highest-grossing games across various app platforms in Korea. This aligns with a broader trend where consumers are increasingly gravitating towards platforms that offer superior value. ONE Store's Average Revenue Per Paying User (ARPPU) is strikingly high—approximately five times greater than that of other leading marketplaces, indicating robust user loyalty and a willingness to spend.

Analyzing specific gaming genres reveals even more about the marketplace's effectiveness. For instance, in the first half of 2025, ONE Store commanded 50.9% of the transaction value in RPG titles, 64.8% in Simulation games, and 49.2% in Strategy games. The cumulative share across these popular genres settled at around 52.9%, affirming ONE Store's prominence in the gaming sector.

Enhanced Developer and User Benefits

The commitment of ONE Store to its developers is evidenced by various support channels and marketing initiatives. Developers are not just treated as mere content providers; they are seen as vital partners in ONE Store's ecosystem. By providing lower fees and comprehensive marketing support, ONE Store has fostered an environment where developers feel valued and empowered to innovate.

For users, the benefits transcend mere discounts; ONE Store actively encourages engagement through special incentives and promotions that enhance the overall user experience. Such strategies not only attract users but also cultivate a loyal customer base that appreciates the platform's commitment to their engagement and satisfaction.

The Road Ahead

As of now, ONE Store continues to solidify its status as a preferred app marketplace among Korean gamers. By harmonizing the needs of developers and users, it stands poised for further growth. The landscape of the app industry is continually shifting, and ONE Store is not resting on its laurels. Ongoing improvements, the introduction of new features, and enhanced user experience measures remain at the forefront of its strategic priorities.

In conclusion, the ascent of ONE Store to Korea's No. 2 app marketplace is a testament to its strategic vision and execution. With a solid foundation, a commitment to its partners, and a focus on user satisfaction, ONE Store is sure to maintain its competitive edge and possibly reach even greater heights in the years to come.