- Public Registration Opens for ai.kr, it.kr, io.kr, and me.kr on March 5

The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), led by Minister Yoo Sang-im, has announced the introduction of four new third-level .kr Internet domains—ai.kr, it.kr, io.kr, and me.kr—to reflect the growing demand for digital and technology-related domains. Starting March 5, 2025, individuals and businesses in Korea will be able to register these domains through accredited domain registrars.

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies has led the Korean government to actively implement related policies, including the enactment of the AI Framework Act. As part of this initiative, MSIT is introducing new .kr domains for the first time in 22 years.

Compared to similar national domains in other countries, which typically cost around KRW 100,000 per year, the new .kr domains offer a more affordable registration fee of approximately KRW 20,000 per year (fees may vary by registrar). Additionally, each domain has a primary meaning but can also be creatively interpreted based on user needs:

ai.kr – Artificial intelligence
it.kr – Information technology
io.kr – Digital innovation
me.kr – Personal use

Beyond these core themes, the domains can be adapted for diverse applications, such as:

it.kr → "it item" (trendy tech products)
me.kr → "Medical" (healthcare and medical services)

The new .kr domains are available to any corporation or individual with a registered address in Korea. Domain names must be between two and 63 characters, and can include numbers and hyphens (-). Registration will be handled through 15 accredited domain registrars, and further details can be found on the Korea Network Information Center (KRNIC) website at krnic.or.kr or 한국인터넷정보센터.한국.

Eom Yeol, Director General for ICT Policy at MSIT, stated: "As we enter the AI era, we are introducing these new .kr domains to meet the increasing demand for Internet domains related to emerging technologies and industries. We expect that domestic businesses and individuals seeking to build their brands will use these domains to protect their trademarks, strengthen their brand identity, and enhance their competitiveness."

For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: +82-44-202-4034, E-mail: msitmedia@korea.kr) of the Ministry of Science and ICT.


Please refer to the attached PDF.