South Korea has put a block on all Facebook social games, and will now require operators to submit an application and be reviewed and rated to get back into the country.
The move is seen as an attempt by the government to control the social gambling industry.
The shutdown started in late August. At first, only financial transactions were blocked, but now all games are blocked. That includes Candy Crush Saga and Farmville, as well as popular social poker application Zynga Texas Hold ‘em Poker.
Korean officials say that applications will be reviewed within 15 days after submission. The move would bring all games into compliance with the Game Industry Promotion Act of December 2013. A fee is also charged for the application.
Games would be rated into four categories:
All – games that are suitable for all ages
12+ – not for minors under the age of 12
15+ – not for minors under the age of 15
Adult only – games that can only be played by adults and are not suitable for children or minors.
